Make a house a home

La Fabrika
182 Rue Antoine Dansaert, Brussels

Without a doubt the coolest interior design shop in the city, La Fabrika presents an intriguing mix of modern classics and young, innovative design. The shop’s focus is on Scandinavian brands, but the owners are always looking to add little-known labels and designs from all over the world, including the US and UK. A large showroom showcases everything from tiny vases to enormous couches, and some items can be bought via the website.

www.lafabrika.be

White Design
61B Rue de la Régence, Brussels

From colourful little objects to state-of-the-art lighting, White Design has what you were looking for. And if they haven’t, they can probably order it for you. Knowledgeable staff can help you pick out furniture that perfectly fits your new home and offer advice on anything from lighting strategies to colour therapy. But beware – it’s hard to leave this place empty-handed, as there will always be some little knick-knack that steals your heart.

www.white-design.be

Antique market
Place du Grand Sablon, Brussels

Every Saturday and on Sunday mornings, the Place du Grand Sablon is where antique lovers come together at the antique market to sell their treasures or find new ones to cherish forever. The area is a design fan’s dream on any day of the week, with plenty of shops, boutiques and flagship stores by both international brands and local curators.

Hay
12A Ijzerenwaag, Antwerp

In October, Belgium will welcome its first official branch of the massively popular interior design brand Hay (pictured). The Danish label is well known for its colourful yet minimalistic designs, its graphical textiles and fun little must-have objects. The brand is already sold in many interior design boutiques, but the new showroom will likely present a much more complete overview of the collection.

www.hay.dk

Concept Gallery in Antwerp
31 Riemstraat, Antwerp

Rarely does a concept store propose an actual new idea, but Concept Gallery in Antwerp is the exception to that rule. Four manufacturers from the world of design and architecture decided to join forces and open a joint showroom. In one place, you’ll see how the design lighting from Belgian label Modular can be combined with light switches from Niko, floors by Senso and ceilings by Estrikor.

www.conceptgallery.be 

Desire to inspire

These fairs and events will provide just the design inspiration you’ve been looking for. Stay updated on future events by checking out the website www.designinbelgium.com, which also keeps you in the loop of new design shops opening up.

Biennale Art Nouveau
October, Brussels

Looking to discover your new home town and learn more about its rich architectural history? Try booking one of the guided tours that will lead you to some of Brussels’ most exceptional Art Nouveau interiors, otherwise closed to the public.

www.biennale-art-nouveau.be

Cocoon
November, Brussels Expo

Cocoon is Belgium’s best-known home improvement and interior fair, open to everyone. Stroll through Brussels Expo to learn about everything from the newest jacuzzi models to home wine cellar systems and interior decorating trends. Last year’s edition is pictured here.

www.cocoon.be

Design Markt
November, ICC, Ghent

Twice a year, Design Markt takes over the ICC in Ghent and lures thousands of vintage design enthusiasts to its halls. National and international gallery owners and specialists come here to sell authentic vintage furniture, objects and decorations. 

www.designmarkt.be

This article was originally published in Newcomer Magazine, 2013