In an idyllic corner of the Belgian coast where the North Sea meets the horizon, an apartment combines monolithic design with a hint of both eclecticism and brutalism to create a private retreat.
Designer Vanessa Schorreels has created a retreat in Reness that embraces the essence of its surroundings—notably the expansive sea view, which served as a main source of inspiration. Reflections, delicate textures, and colours underpin the home, inspired by organic forms and the rugged beauty of nature. The essential is emphasised, leaving room for interpretation and imagination.
A warm minimalism with a soothing ambience is offset by a touch of brutalism with its monolithic forms and robust materials. Schorreels describes the design as sober and monolithic, adding art, objects, sculptures, and vintage pieces that bring an eclectic touch to the home. “In my designs, you will find pared-down lines with a lot of attention to detailing—adding objects and art finishes my projects,” Vanessa says. “These are part of the design; they are not optional.”
Reness invites gatherings and shared moments with friends and family around the central table, where a vintage Noguchi lamp hangs like a work of art above. Every detail contributes to an unforgettable experience. A custom modular sofa by Edra forms the heart of the living room.
What truly sets this apartment apart is its attention to craftsmanship. Carefully handcrafted details and artistic objects work together with artworks that reference the ocean, imbuing a sense of authenticity. Always choosing to work with beautiful materials, Schorreels’ designs have an innate yet deliberate tactility. “I enjoy working with lots of contrast in textures. My end result is sensorial, where smooth, coarse, reflective, hard, hot and cold materials co-exist,” she says.
Reness is an oasis on the Belgian coast where the everchanging colour palette of the sea works in perfect harmony with the interiors. It pays tribute to living well, gently extending an invitation to savour the timeless beauty of its surroundings.
A vintage Noguchi light hangs like a work of art above a Charlotte Perriand dining table and vintage Charlotte Perriand Dordogne chairs.
Vintage Etcetera chair redone in rust orange fabric by Nathalie Van der Massen.
A custom Edra modular sofa forms the heart of the living room, allowing those seated to have contact with the sea.
What truly sets this apartment apart is its attention to craftsmanship – from the kitchen and bathrooms to the living space and bedrooms, carefully handcrafted details and artistic objects work together with artworks that reference the ocean, imbuing a sense of authenticity. Always choosing to work with beautiful materials, Vanessa’s designs have an innate yet deliberate tactility that transcend her work. “I really enjoy working with lots of contrast in textures and my end result is sensorial, where smooth, coarse, reflective, hard, hot and cold materials co-exist,” she says.
The expansive sea view, with custom Edra sofa in the foreground.
Reness is an oasis on the Belgian coast where the everchanging colour palette of the sea works in perfect harmony with design, natural beauty, brutalist elements and artistic pieces. It’s a place where the senses are indulged, craftsmanship is celebrated, and the soul finds tranquillity while gazing at the magnificent sea view from every corner. It pays tribute to living well, gently extending an invitation to savour the timeless beauty of its surrounds.
Schorreels worked with Van der Massen on the custom-designed cabinets in the entrance hall, both guest rooms and the master bedroom, using solid wood with different textiles.
