Michelin-starred chef Thijs Vervloet has moved his renowned restaurant, Maison Colette, to an impressive doctor’s house in Westerlo, Belgium, signaling a fresh chapter in his culinary adventure. This ambitious endeavor includes a restaurant, a private dining room, and a boutique hotel, with Vervloet handing over the interior design to Grain Designoffice, which is making its exciting debut in hotel interiors. The outcome is a stunning blend of classic elegance and modern design, showcasing both the chef’s culinary vision and Grain’s unique style.
Vervloet’s return to his roots, close to his own home, infuses the project with a deeply personal essence. The historic property, brimming with potential, served as a blank canvas for Grain Designoffice to unleash their creativity. Inspired by Vervloet’s timeless culinary style, their enthusiasm for mid-century design, and a hint of vintage allure, the designers have crafted an ambiance that is both sophisticated and richly textured.
“For me, working on such a classic interior feels like coming home,” expresses Nick De Moor of Grain Designoffice. “It’s a real breath of fresh air to be able to bring such a sense of grandeur to a contemporary interior.”
The design narrative unfolds through a carefully curated palette of textures and materials. Lush carpets, intimate color schemes, and high-gloss accents create a sense of refined opulence. Classic fittings and wall molding echo the building’s history, while custom-engraved switches add a bespoke touch. This interplay of clean lines, organic forms, rough textures, and soft finishes, a hallmark of Grain’s work, results in a timeless and captivating ensemble.
Lighting plays a pivotal role in shaping the ambiance. Grain Designoffice’s expertise in this area is evident throughout the space. Their in-house “Grain Collection,” a curated selection of vintage lighting designs, features prominently, casting a warm and inviting glow. “Light is everything,” the studio’s motto proclaims, and Maison Colette serves as a testament to this philosophy.
The restaurant itself, seating 35 guests, exudes an air of sophisticated intimacy. The chef’s table, accommodating six, offers a privileged glimpse into the culinary artistry at work. The private dining room, “Salon Anna,” a touching tribute to Vervloet’s grandmother, provides a more intimate setting for up to 20 guests. Its retro-inspired design adds another layer of character to the overall aesthetic.
Beyond the restaurant, Grain Designoffice took on the exciting challenge of creating a five-bedroom boutique hotel. This new endeavor highlights the firm’s talent for adapting their distinctive design language to the realm of hospitality. The hotel rooms radiate a “vintage chic” charm, ensuring that guests experience a stay that is both elegant and cozy.
“We are very pleased with the outcome,” shares Sander Bullynck of Grain Designoffice. “Our success is partly due to the creative freedom granted to us by Chef Vervloet, allowing us to explore our ideas down to the finest detail.”
Maison Colette is more than just a restaurant; it is a complete gastronomic experience. The collaboration between Chef Vervloet and Grain Designoffice has resulted in a space that is as visually stunning as it is welcoming. It is a testament to the power of design to elevate the culinary arts to new heights, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.