- Interior
They say that fate rewards the daring, but to us it seems that role is more likely to fall to Bieke Casteleyn. The interior designer is once again casting a high light with this new-build project in Knokke, Belgium. Anything but mundane and a concretisation of the lifestyle of the residents, with this design she explored the possibilities of creating a detailed holiday feeling, all year round. Here, every space is a statement that convinces, stays with you, and rejoices.
Spring 2012 marked the beginning of BCINT, the studio through which Bieke Casteleyn handles various types of interior design projects. More than a decade later, her portfolio is a paradise for anyone who feels drawn to bold yet controlled residential concepts that constantly try to push the boundaries of detailing, proportion, and balance. Both new-build and renovation commissions are familiar territory. Blushed Nude is an addition to the former category. Indeed, on the second floor of a new apartment building, she and her team set to work to provide clients with an exceptional home. The young couple was open to trying something different. Instead of following the style that typifies many projects in Knokke, they needed something more playful. The main requirement was the idea of fully incorporating the desired programme into the available square metres. The living space and kitchen flow into each other, where the vintage bar stools immediately register as eye-catchers. A separate utility room offers additional storage space, while a cosy TV corner lurks behind the fireplace. Following this, you can access a smaller room where a pastel green desk by Cassina is currently showing off, but where a fold-out bed offers space for a guest. On top of that, an extra shower has been added here. This gives residents a mini-suite next to the three other bedrooms. These include two children's rooms with a bathroom each and the master bedroom with its own suite. Clearly, there was a very efficient use of space here, resulting in a family-proof residence. 
From clear leads to distinctive aesthetics
It has long since ceased to be a secret that this project is the outcome of a far-reaching vision that leaves no stone unturned. Yet we like to take the time to emphasise that there were many things to take into account. In the several bathrooms, for instance, the designer opted for small tiles; these of course had to match the other colours in the room. Furthermore, several pieces of furniture were custom-drawn and manufactured, including the carpet and the dining table. The beloved bar stools are vintage finds. The door handles and fireplace are also an in-house design. The home can also count in terms of innovation. In the kitchen, flagstones flow into a cast floor, which required a lot of attention. Between the TV corner and the office space that also serves as a guest room is a special wall, again with recycled wood. The incorporation of glass windows and textiles results in an atmosphere reminiscent of places in Marrakech and reappears in the separation between the sleeping and bathing areas in the master bedroom. In terms of both innovation and detailing, such aspects are more than successful. Looking at the big picture, we simultaneously state with certainty that it is equally the distinct style that has made this assignment a top project. The full picture is right and completely fulfils the ambition to explore other directions. Casteleyn's ability to intuitively sense spaces and explore proportions and details to perfection emerges here in a way we have not yet seen from her. 
Daring for variety and innovation is an enduring keyword in this project. With these clients, Bieke Casteleyn found a rewarding freedom to create and solidify a dynamic idea. Different colours reinforce themselves in a harmonious arrangement opposite each other and unite around a noncommittal, inviting gesture. We are confident that the residents will enjoy and put things into perspective for a long time in their brand-new interior, two things that the designer herself also attaches great importance to.
Photography by Cafeine
Text by Cara Jacobs