Philippine Tatler – August 2018

(ff) #1
plashes of colour in unexpected
places; an oddly harmonious
juxtaposition of old and new
elements; and a bold aesthetic
that, nevertheless, exudes a
sense of warm hospitality and
charm to those entering a space:
these are just a few of the elements that have
set the work of Belgian interior designer Gert
Voorjans apart from that of his peers.
Known for vividly coloured interiors filled
with a mix of exquisite antiques and avant-
garde furniture, Voorjans has transformed
many spaces into eclectic wonderlands that
captivate the senses in a portfolio that includes
both residential and institutional projects. One
of his more recent projects, however, proved
to be something of a challenge: how does
one transform an austere and uninhabitable
structure into a beautifully appointed home for
a family with growing children?

THE GRANDEUR OF A
BYGONE ERA

The space in question is the former
French consulate in the Belgian city of
Antwerp. Prior to having been a diplomatic
office, it was originally the home of German
maritime magnate Walter Villinger whose

S


ECLECTIC
ELEGANCE
The study
combines
both antique
and modern
elements;
Designer Gert
Voorjans;
(opposite) The
simplicity of
the vestibule
PZVќZL[I`
modern art
and modern
furniture


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