One of the qualities I admire most in people is consistency. This is especially the case when talking about design, fashion or any other creative discipline. When I heard MAGAZYN, the brainchild of Thomas Haarman, which I featured as a shelter before, had moved to a new location I couldn’t wait to have a look. Thomas embodies consistency from his selection of objects to, may I say, the way he dresses. I was extremely eager to see what he would do if he had more square meters at his disposal to showcase his exquisite curation.
This new location is the perfect fit to display Thomas’ unique finds and the opportunity to now also present furniture to his loyal customer base. From chairs made in a small Danish atelier to a robust German table made in Berlin. While I was wondering around I confessed I could live in his shop. His genuine smile gave away I wasn’t the first visitor to mention this.
I would trust Thomas blindfolded to furnish my house. His world is one of texture and restraint without becoming cold or minimal. Think an elegant and harmonious mix of warm grey tones and natural materials like wood and stone with a dash of concrete.
What’s not to like? The more I look at this picture the more head over heels I am with this shelving system.
So whether you are looking for new bedlinnens or some timless tableware, furniture that will stand the test of time or a gift for a loved one…
MAGAZYN
Steenhouwersvest 34A
2000 Antwerp
all pictures by elisabeth for aestheticshelter.com
When it comes to interior decoration I have a soft spot for brass objects and colourful fabrics. If you are looking for the latter Anne-Marie Witmeur’s shop in Ixelles is the right place to be. I discovered the shop the same day I stumbled upon Bonnie & Jane (it is located a bit further down the same street). Here you’ll find a great selection of handwoven blankets and throws from India and killims and pillows from other far of places.
The shop also offers a great selection of handcrafted furniture, objects and jewellery. Every object has a story to tell and the warm and kind shop owner is more than happy to share them with you. I fell head over heels for these painted wooden screens. Ever i saw similar ones here and here I am dying to find my own to hang in the bedroom.
These colourful bowls, made of recycled phone wires, were sourced in South Africa. I wouldn’t mind having these at home to brighten up those gloomy autumn days…
Anne-Marie Witmeur
Rue Darwin 52a
1050 Bruxelles
all pictures by elisabeth for aestheticshelter.com
A couple of weeks ago, in the midst of our very short Indian summer, I was invited by Ike and Kahtryn of Ampersand House for a private viewing of their current exhibition: Brazilian Modern, Icons and Innovation. As I experienced during my first visit the selection of furniture, art and objects was exquisite and refined adding a new dimension and perspective to this maison de maitre. My favorite space this time was the dining area. Think beautiful handwoven rugs, dark exotic wood and striking lighting fixtures.
The lovely enthusiastic galerist Laurence of Gallery Transversal, who represents the exhibited artists, talked me through most of the pieces. This is how I got to know the work of Mariannita Luzzati.
Beautiful, isn’t it? The other spaces were off course as thoughtfully curated.
And this time a gorgeous selection of jewelry made by Brazilian artists Vera Cortes and Bettina Terepins was also on display. I fell head over heels for Laurence’s ring.
Needles to say I’m starting to cultivate a deep crush for Brazil. Make sure to check the outtakes on the Facebook page.
Brazilian Modern: Icons and Innovation (till Saturday 29th September)
Ampersand House
30, rue Tasson Snel
1060 Brussels
all pictures by elisabeth for aestheticshelter.com
I have a confession to make. Two weekends ago I visited Bruges for the very first time of my life. Even though I’ve been born and raised in Belgium, I had never visited this charming city before. For this last minute weekend getaway I luckily still managed to book a room at Sint Jacobs B&B. Compared to most B&B’s in the city (think lots of froufrou, an excess of antique furniture and heavy chandeliers) it seemed perfect to my taste: straightforward, calm and airy. Don’t be fooled by the first picture. After a burst of lime green in the majestic hallway a peaceful oasis awaited in form of a spacious room in different shades of white.
Crisp white sheets and an occasional quirky detail made me feel at home straight away.
The next day I woke up extra early to take pictures of the dining area, annex kitchen, where breakfast was served. The room is perfectly executed in a black and white colour scheme with pops of bright colours. There I got a chance to talk to the owner Thierry who explained the history of the house (it used to house a textile company) while he was making freshly squeezed orange juice. All very laid back and relaxed. The meal did not disappoint: home made bread, fresh fruit salad, different types of cereals, yogurt and a nice crispy baguette.
I loved the juxtaposition of the black chairs with the painted wooden floor…
not to mention the design. Like a modern day version of an art deco seat. I forgot to ask the name of the designer but I’ve emailed Thierry and will add the info asap (chairs are Phillipe Starck for Kartell). So when in Bruges you know where to stay.
St. Jacobs B&B
Oude Zak 20
8000 Brugge
To view the outtakes visit the Facebook page
all pictures by elisabeth for aestheticshelter.com
