Anouk Taeymans on Antwerp, inspiration and experiencing design during Antwerp Design Week

We could give you countless reasons why we believe in Antwerp Design Week. But sometimes, it means more to hear it from someone else. That is why we are proud to introduce one of our ambassadors. In the coming weeks, you will discover a series of personal stories, each offering a unique perspective on the experience.

Can you introduce yourself and your background?“

I studied in Norway and now run my own interior architecture studio in Belgium, alongside my own paint line. My work is very much about atmosphere, materials and creating spaces that feel balanced and timeless.”

Are you familiar with Antwerp Design Week? Have you visited before?

“Yes, I’ve attended several events. It’s interesting to see how it evolves, from different locations and concepts to more curated formats like expo's and the visitor point EXPO Club. It keeps the experience fresh.”

Do you collaborate a lot as an interior architect?

“Absolutely. Interior architecture is never a solo story. You constantly work with brands, suppliers, craftsmen and clients. That collaboration is essential to create a strong and coherent result.”

How do you feel Antwerp has evolved as a design city?

“Antwerp is really alive today. Much more than a few years ago.If I compare it to cities like Amsterdam, I expected more there. In Antwerp, especially in hospitality, the level of interior design is incredibly high. There’s so much attention to detail and atmosphere.”

In Antwerp, especially in hospitality, the level of interior design is incredibly high. There’s so much attention to detail and atmosphere.”

What are some of your favourite design or hospitality hotspots in Antwerp?

“Places like Coco by Caffènation, Nectar, Cobra House and Café Canelé are beautiful examples. And Cece is Hungry is a special one for me, since I designed the interior myself.”

How would you describe Belgian design?

“Refined. Subtle. Thoughtful. Belgian design has a very strong balance between simplicity and depth. It’s not loud or overly trend-driven, but focuses on quality materials, detail and longevity. There’s a kind of ‘sympathetic modesty’ in it, a quiet strength that makes it timeless.”

Why do you feel connected to Antwerp Design Week?

“I strongly believe in the impact of good design, and I have a deep network in Antwerp and Belgium. ADW creates a platform where all of that comes together. That’s very valuable.”

With what mindset do interior architects visit ADW?

“It’s a great opportunity to discover new brands and to experience everything in real life. Textures, lighting, materials, those are things you need to feel. And what makes ADW so efficient is that many showrooms are open with the right people present. You can see a lot in a short time and get a complete overview.”

How would you describe a day at Antwerp Design Week?

“It almost feels like going to a fair, but in a much more pleasant way. You move through the city, experience spaces in daylight, feel the atmosphere of each brand. It’s simply more enjoyable.”

What makes a strong showroom experience for you?

“A showroom should go beyond just showing a collection.Take the Royal Botania HQ for example. They bring outdoor quality into an interior setting, with natural elements like stone, linen, water and greenery. It becomes a total environment, not just a presentation.”

What is the difference between a design week and a design fair?

“A design week is a much nicer way to discover a city. You experience the vibe, the architecture, the hospitality concepts, all while discovering brands.That context adds so much more than a traditional fair.”

What trends do you see for 2026?

“Interiors themselves will remain quite timeless, while smaller objects can be more trend-driven.We see a rise in unique, handmade pieces and vintage, moving away from mass production.Materials like aluminium and inox are becoming more present.There’s also a shift from maximalism towards more calm, neutral and ‘moody’ interiors, with deeper tones like brown and bronze.”

How inspiring is Antwerp for you as an interior architect?

“It’s incredible. So many hospitality spaces here could be featured in design books. There is such a wide range of styles and ideas. For international visitors, it must be an amazing source of inspiration.”

Do you work with Belgian partners?

“Yes, very often. Brands like Royal Botania, Ethnicraft, Serax, D&M Depot, Prado and others. There’s a strong level of quality and collaboration. That makes working with Belgian partners very natural.”

How do you approach a visit to ADW?

“We try to gather as much inspiration as possible. We document everything and keep it in our internal database, so we can use it later in projects.”

What would you recommend visitors to see during ADW?

“For a broad overview for architects and interior architects, The Hub is very useful. And for design inspiration, I would definitely recommend visiting exhibitions like The Edit by Flanders DC or projects by young creatives, for example in the Boerentoren. Those moments really show the future of Belgian design.”