Interior design, interior designer, two words closely related. In other articles, we have talked a lot about interior design so in this article series, we will be discussing more about who made this interior design. Of course, we all know what an interior designer is. An interior designer is a professional who specializes in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional interior spaces. But who are we discussing in today’s “Behind Their Success Series”? An art dealer, curator, designer, and antiquaire who incorporates Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, who is this amazing figure in the interior design world? It is none other than Axel Vervoordt! 

❝My philosophy is to create harmony, to make spaces which are simple, honest, and pure❞ - Axel Vervoordt

Multi-hyphenate Axel Vervoordt is a Belgian interior designer, art dealer, and collector who is internationally renowned for his unique approach to design that emphasizes minimalism, harmony, and timeless elegance. He was born in Antwerp in 1947 to a horse-dealer father and an antiques collector mother. Vervoordt's journey into interior design began through his family's tradition of art dealing. Growing up in Antwerp, Belgium, he was immersed in the world of art from a young age, learning to appreciate the beauty and significance of both ancient and contemporary artworks.

Vervoordt began his career as an art dealer at a young age, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather who were also art dealers. At just 14 years old, he borrowed money from his father and set off solo to England in search of antiques. Despite his father's wishes for him to pursue a 'real' profession, he delved into economics briefly before fulfilling his national service duty in the army. At 21, inspired by his mother, he purchased eleven 16th-century houses on Antwerp's Vlaeykensgang, rescuing them from demolition and restoring them. This transformed the alley into a haven for his carefully selected antiques, accessible by appointment only, and became his residence. Collaborating with his wife, they cultivated a cozy lifestyle with minimalist interiors, drawing clients eager to replicate the aesthetic. Soon, his expertise extended beyond dealing to designing interiors and furnishings, shaping the homes of those seeking his refined touch.

Vervoordt's passion for art and design led him to establish his own gallery in the early 1970s, where he began dealing in both ancient and contemporary art. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a leading authority in the fields of fine art, antiquities, and interior design. His design philosophy is deeply influenced by Eastern aesthetics, particularly Japanese Zen philosophy, as well as by the concept of wabi-sabi, which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and impermanence. He believes in creating spaces that evoke a sense of tranquility, balance, and serenity, and he often incorporates natural materials, subdued color palettes, and organic shapes into his designs.

❝Simplicity, for me, is the most important thing in the interior. If you feel something is missing, add it later. It's easier to add than to take away❞ - Axel Vervoordt

Throughout his career, Vervoordt has collaborated with numerous high-profile clients and has worked on a wide range of projects, including private residences, hotels, museums, and public spaces. His work has been featured in prestigious design publications, and he has been recognized with awards and honors for his contributions to the field of interior design such as AD100, International Design & Architecture Awards, Interior Design Hall of FameLifetime Achievement Awards, and even featuring in design publications and books, further cementing his reputation as a leading figure in the field of interior design.

Axel Vervoordt is celebrated for his distinctive approach to interior design, characterized by a harmonious blend of minimalism, timeless elegance, and a deep appreciation for natural materials and craftsmanship. While he has worked on numerous projects over the years, here are a few of his famous works that exemplify his unique style and vision:

1. Kanaal 

One of Vervoordt's most renowned projects is Kanaal, a vast industrial complex in Belgium that he transformed into a mixed-use development featuring residential lofts, offices, galleries, and event spaces. The project beautifully combines the historic industrial architecture with Vervoordt's signature aesthetic, creating spaces that are both modern and infused with a sense of history and authenticity.

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2. Château de Tertre

Vervoordt worked on the interiors of Château de Tertre, a historic wine estate in the Bordeaux region of France. His design approach respected the château's architectural heritage while infusing the interiors with a modern sensibility and a sense of understated luxury.

3. Castle 's-Gravenwezel

Vervoordt undertook the restoration and interior design of Castle 's-Gravenwezel, a historic castle located near Antwerp, Belgium. His sensitive approach to preservation and renovation allowed the castle's original charm and character to shine through, while introducing modern elements and amenities that complemented its historic features.

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4. Kanye West’s and Kim Kardashian’s home

Axel Vervoordt collaborated with Kanye West and Kim Kardashian on the interior design of their family home in Hidden Hills, California. The project aimed to create a minimalist and serene living environment that reflected Vervoordt's design philosophy while meeting the lifestyle needs of the celebrity couple and their family.

5. Palazzo Fortuny

Vervoordt was responsible for the restoration and renovation of Palazzo Fortuny, a historic palazzo in Venice, Italy, which now serves as a museum and cultural center. His design interventions honored the building's rich history and artistic heritage, creating spaces that are both functional and evocative of the palazzo's storied past.

Source : Pinterest

❝I love spaces that are timeless, where you can breathe and live and be still, where everything is balanced. That’s what I try to achieve in my work❞ - Axel Vervoordt

That is the story behind Axel Vervoordt’s success, the journey she went through till becoming one of the well-known interior designers till now! Who should we discuss next? Consult your dream house with Livvy Luxury Living! Contact us on Whatsapp : +62 878 6894 8000 or visit us at 18 Office Park 25th floor Suite A, Jalan Simatupang Kav 18, South Jakarta.

Content Writer : Arcelia Emmanuella Adiwinata