One experimental alum, fashion designer Cedric Jacquemy, recently launched a groundbreaking concept called Bakermat, teaming up with Quinten Schaap on a venture that combines a fabric shop and virtual textile library powered by 3D prototyping. Expertly sourced fabrics include handmade silk from India and cloth produced by the same Italian artisans who weave the Pope’s clothes. On a quest for transparency and environmental sustainability, the duo also have an educational mission to connect the next generation of designers with manufacturers.
For design-led visitors, unique shopping experiences are central to Antwerp’s allure. Last summer, jewellery brand Elliot & Ostrich, endorsed by Belgian celebrity stylist Tom Eerebout, debuted a stunning showroom called The Nest. Open by appointment, this cocooning space was designed with African-inspired decor – Botswana-born founder Jennifer Elliot follows the ubuntu philosophy of “I am because we are.” Here, in the world diamond capital of Antwerp, clients are guided on an introspective journey to create a custom heirloom based on important life milestones. Crafted with ethically sourced diamonds, the pieces are designed to be stacked together over time to tell a layered story.
One of Antwerp’s distinctions is its cross-pollination of creative scenes. At the always-booked Misera, chef Nicolas Misera (whose motto is “an artist’s life”) shows off the work of artist friends in the pocket-sized restaurant that’s a tribute to the culinary genius of his father Hans. Chef Nick Bril of The Jane, located on the site of a former military hospital dating back to the 19th century, is also a sought-after DJ. The townhouse that serves as a flagship for fashion brand La Collection doubles as an art gallery, displaying the works of invited artists alongside luxury pieces inspired both by Antwerp’s multiculturalism (long robes worn by the local Hasidic Jewish community) and art (mohair pinstripes echoing Cy Twombly’s drawn lines). Handbag designer Lies Mertens hosts artists-in-residence at her new guesthouse-gallery called Patina. The first European designer to use mycelium from mushrooms as an alternative to leather, Mertens has decorated two guest rooms above her workshop in the vibrant Green Quarter, not far from the De Koninck Brewery. Patina is a place intended for cultural exchange, also hosting guests interested in learning more about her craft.
Another new guesthouse comes from goldsmith Pascale Masselis, an alchemist of interior design. An Academy graduate who launched her eponymous jewellery brand in 1983, Masselis hosts guests in two light-filled apartments above her boutique. Like her own inspired apartment, filled with antique glass bottles and terracotta amphorae sourced from flea markets, these ooze style. Crucially, in a fitting continuity in historic Antwerp, this townhouse on Zirkstraat was occupied by a goldsmith two centuries ago, and the city’s first diamond cutter lived down the street. Don’t miss a private guided tour to learn about Antwerp’s historic role in the gem trade, and the artisans making magic today in a city with a style all its own, where innovation is rooted in the past.
Where to stay in Antwerp
Botanic Sanctuary
When it opened in late 2022, the Botanic, housed inside a former medieval monastery, brought a new kind of luxury to Antwerp – and a deep sense of place, thanks to its centuries-old wood beams, chapel frescoes, and museum-quality artwork curated by expert Joost Declercq. Now it’s at the top of everyone’s list – whether for a martini at Henry’s Bar or the electromagnetic frequency treatment at its holistic spa. Filled with greenery to reflect its setting inside the city’s Botanical Gardens, the hotel gives off garden party vibes – complete with the people-watching. The spa suite comes with its own jacuzzi and sauna, while the Antwerp Suite is decked out with works by local artists, but make sure you leave your room to try the three Michelin-starred restaurants onsite. And don’t skip the buffet breakfast – it might well be Belgium’s best, with most ingredients sourced from within five miles.
Hotel Flora
Spending the night at Hotel Flora feels like a secret. Buzz the green door on Korte Nieuwstraat, and you’ll be led down a landscaped path to a 15th-century merchant’s mansion, converted into a boutique hotel with bold, maximalist decor by Belgian designer Gert Voorjans. In a nod to the port city’s gem trade, the seven rooms are named for precious gemstones. Can’t choose? Bring your friends along and book the entire place.
Guesthouse Galalith
Jewellery designer Pascale Masselis has opened a guest house with two apartments above her beautiful boutique. Available for short-term stays (a two-night minimum), the one-bedroom apartments have fully equipped kitchens and tasteful decor, such as artwork by contemporary visual artist Julien Delagrange.
Hotel August
A former Augustinian convent sets the stage for the first hotel project by acclaimed local architect Vincent Van Duysen. Sister property to the stylish Hotel Julien, this serene 44-room enclave offers a wellness space with an outdoor swimming pond and a restaurant overseen by chef Nick Bril of The Jane fame.
Where to eat and drink
PrivéPrivée
To add to the breadth of his culinary empire (Le Pristine, Blueness), celebrity chef Sergio Herman is making headlines for his new culinary concept. A champion of the Zeeland terroir, Herman cooks for just 20 diners at a time in a private, art-filled kitchen at PrivéPrivée.
