- Interior
In the residence, Belgian interior architect Arjaan De Feyter once again shows what he is made of and that he is not afraid to question tradition. Bold contrasts in colour and material are the strength of this residence in Schilde. Together with various eye-catchers, the symbiosis between dark and light, warm and cold, classic and modern shines through in this interior.
Arjaan De Feyter is absolutely no stranger to the Belgian design landscape. His name will probably sound familiar to most of our readers. And rightly so, as the interior designer already has numerous impressive national and international projects to his credit and has received several awards. The design of his own house with office (2007) won him the Staalbouwprijs (2008) and Fidias Award (2009) and earned him a mention in the Yearbook of Architecture (2008). He has also participated in renowned exhibitions such as the Venice Architecture Biennale.In that high degree of finishing and details, we always recognise De Feyter's preference for purity and honest materials. Although most of his spaces are characterised by minimalist designs, that purity need not be boring or monotonous. Indeed, functionality, comfort and the aesthetic remain the focus in the interiors. 
‘The fireplace creates intimacy between the two functions, without losing the open character of the space’
One of his impressive and typical projects can be found in the green outskirts of Antwerp, namely the residence in Schilde. This residence was designed by DCX Architects and shows an interesting mix between a modern and classic exterior. Whereas the design of the walls and the finishes of the garage door and windows, among others, take on a rather austere look, the shape of the roof with dormer gives it a more rural touch. With the use of warm materials such as shingled façade brick, black sintered wood and thatch, this new-build home fits perfectly into the natural forest setting. In collaboration with Kevin Mampay for the landscape design, this became a beautiful ensemble with terrace and outdoor pool.
As soon as you enter, you draw big eyes and are welcomed by an impressive sculptural spiral staircase in the entrance hall. ‘This is a first imposing eye-catcher that makes the connection with the upper floors and, above all, strongly stimulates curiosity about what the rest of the house has to offer,’ we hear. This is also where you immediately notice the bold colour and material contrast that will continue through the rest of the interior. The dark brown wood of the walls and steps is completely opposed to the white-grey natural stone of the stairs and floor, yet light and dark complement each other nicely here, without letting either dominate. 
Walking on, you enter the very open and cosy living space, where a unique, monumental gas fireplace by Verodesign is the topic of conversation. Placing it in the centre of the living room divides the space into a sitting area and dining area. ‘The fireplace acts as a kind of “room divider” that creates intimacy between the two functions, without losing the open character of the space. Moreover, one can enjoy the open gas fireplace from all sides,’ adds De Feyter. The contrast in dark and light colours is again very visible here. The cabinets and furniture - which, by the way, are from our partner RR Interieur - have grey or brown tones that are interrupted by light details in the form of cushions, candles or the carpet. The light grey natural stone floor is provided in ‘Muschel’ lime and is the same all over the ground floor. ‘Furthermore, maximum contact with the green surroundings was employed here through the large window openings, also fitted with overhanging canopies that serve as sun protection on the one hand but also create cosy covered areas on the terrace.’
Want to read more about this impressive project? You can read about it in the December 2023 edition of Imagicasa Magazine.
Photography by Jan Liégeois
Text by Caroline Meeusen