Minimalist Apartment in Ghent by Frederic Kielemoes

Belgian interior architect Frederic Kielemoes has made quite the name for himself designing bare-bones, minimalist interiors. There’s a standard treatment he applies to all of his projects which somewhat acts as a signature fingerprint. His clean lines, uncluttered palettes, neutral selection of materials combined with his almost religious commitment to restraint, is evident in all of his interiors.

If Coco Chanel suggested, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off,” along with, “It is always better to be underdressed,” – then Kielemeos is the architectural equivalent. Always removing unnecessary architectural pomp and ceremony. Always keeping to the barest of essentials. Always being slightly underdressed. Not that this has meant in any way that what remains hasn’t been selected meticulously.

DB Gent is an apartment based in Ghent, Belgium, designed in Kielemoes’s signature minimalist style. The space is characterized by its use of natural tones and materials. Marble is used extensively throughout to accent against the light wood and black-coloured built-ins. Copper light fittings and a copper sink tap are the only hints of colour in the stark but beautiful kitchen. A custom-built bench and curved dining table maximize space within the seating area in the kitchen. An Eero Saarinen Tulip Table is placed in the main living area for additional seating.

Copper is used extensively as a cameo material throughout the space. Even the towel rails in the bathroom pay homage to the wonderful diversity of the many shades and uses of this metal.

Copper fronted draws, full height joinery, sliding doors – the material has been used both sparingly and then almost contrarily in large sheets, to bring texture and colour into the interior. The joinery itself is to die for. From the simple thin metal shelf in the bathrooms to the same matching shelves in the living room – everything has been designed just so. It is an interior that has reverentially paid not just attention but delight in its restraint.

Coco would be proud.