- Interior
While the world seems to be getting faster and more uniform, Belgian craft proves that the power of the unique and the handmade is still unsurpassed. It is a symbol of refinement, tradition and passion, rooted in a centuries-old culture of mastery. We would like to take you into the craft of Atelier Vierkant.
Craftsmanship is deeply embedded in the Belgian identity.Over the centuries, artisans in Belgium have passed on their knowledge and skills from generation to generation. From the masterful forgings and delicate lace productions of the Middle Ages to contemporary creations, each object is characterised by a combination of precision, love and respect for materials. This tradition lives on in a new generation of makers, who not only cherish the art of craft but also innovate it. A shining example of this is the work of Atelier Vierkant, a family-run business that creates handmade ceramic objects that embody the Belgian spirit of craftsmanship. 
Founded in 1992 by Willy and Annette Janssens in Ostend, Atelier Vierkant is a textbook example of how traditional techniques can be combined with a contemporary vision. The family business has specialised in creating ceramic design objects, from imposing flower pots to sophisticated sculptures, that make a statement both indoors and outdoors. Each object is handmade, with a care and attention that the mass production process simply cannot match. What makes them truly unique is their profound relationship with clay, the base material for all their creations. The artisanal process begins with the careful selection of high-quality clays. These are then shaped with love and precision into organic, robust forms that reflect the harmony between nature and design. Each piece bears the personal signature of its maker, which not only ensures authenticity but also emphasises the human aspect of the craft.
The designs are more than aesthetic objects; they create a connection between space and its users. Their ceramic pots and sculptures find their place in a variety of environments, from minimalist luxury villas to sprawling landscapes. The brand is not just a supplier of objects, but a partner for architects and designers striving to create a synergy between interior and exterior. With an extensive palette of eight earthy tones and a variety of shapes and textures, Atelier Square offers a collection that is never predictable. Each piece adds a story to its surroundings, while remaining timeless in its appearance. This is design that is not subject to trends, but draws its strength from simplicity and durability. 
Each piece adds a story to its surroundings while remaining timeless in its appearance
Atelier Vierkant is more than a family business; it is a living testimony to what Belgian craftsmanship can mean in a globalised world. By staying true to craftsmanship and quality, Willy and Annette Janssens show that authentic craftsmanship still has a place on the international stage. Their creations are not only admired in Belgium, but also appreciated worldwide, as works of art that combine both function and beauty.
In a world where uniqueness is increasingly rare, Atelier Vierkant reminds us that true art arises from dedication, patience and a deep respect for materials. Belgian craftsmanship, as embodied by this atelier, proves that quality and authenticity are not only timeless, but also offer a powerful response to the fleetingness of our times. 
Curious about the full book ‘Belgian Craftmanship I’? It is available via our webshop.
Atelier images by Bart Van Leuven
Project image 1 by Bart Van Leuven (product: krk)
Project image 2 by Cafeine (product: mira)
Project image 3 by Cafeine (product: anthos100)
Project image 4 by Bart Van Leuven (product: gzl)
Portrait by Jens Ellensohn
Cover image by Bob Jensen
Text by Elke Aerts