The Place Jean Rey was included in plans for the Justus Lipsius building (headquarters of the Council of the European Union) in 1984.

Belgian authorities created the space in 2001, as it was thought their reputation would be tarnished if they did not manage to improve the foreboding image of the European Quarter.

[1] The Place Jean Rey is paved with natural stone, bordered by plant boxes and benches facing 24 water jets in the centre, which mirror the Maelbeek collector and storm basin below.

Trees line the western side (not open to traffic) mirroring the axis starting at the entrance of Leopold Park across the street to the south.

[3] In 2004, the Brussels Intercommunal Transport Company (STIB/MIVB) laid out long to medium term plans to build a metro stop on the Place Jean Rey.