Space Copenhagen Unveils Le Pristine Restaurant in Antwerp for Celebrated Chef Sergio Herman.

Danish design studio Space Copenhagen has revealed the interiors of Le Pristine, an ambitious restaurant project in Antwerp by Michelin acclaimed chef Sergio Herman. The project, which sees Herman partner with luxury Belgian fashion brand Verso, opened last month and features an a la carte restaurant and café/deli.

Le Pristine is a long, generous 445 sqm space that occupies the ground floor of a 1960s modernist building that had been left partly demolished, leaving some structural elements exposed. Space Copenhagen has kept some of these dramatic unfinished elements to visually tell the story of the building’s transformation. The courtyard of a neighbouring Baroque 17th Century mansion also forms part of Le Pristine, adding to the rich patina of the restaurant and a view into Verso luxury fashion boutique that lies within.

For founders of Space Copenhagen, Signe Bindslev Henriksen and Peter Bundgaard Rützou, bringing Le Pristine to life has been an exercise in using design to weave together art, gastronomy and architecture, resulting in a project that seeks to celebrate Antwerp as a destination. Space Copenhagen saw its role as orchestrating a composition of diverse references, creating a space that feels distinctly modern, while reaching back in time to honour the architecture and art of the city. The interiors play host to an inviting collage of historic references and contemporary palettes, harnessing the collective energy of the chefs, artists, and craftspeople involved including Sabine Marcelis and Maarten Baas.

Understanding Antwerp, its atmosphere and its rich cultural and artistic roots were paramount in creating Le Pristine. Space Copenhagen used the great Flemish and Dutch masters as a reference for the colour palette of subdued warm rusty reds, milky black, sand and grey tones. They also worked closely with numerous artisans and craftspeople to create a truly bespoke tapestry of textures, materials and references.

Le Pristine celebrates creative collaboration and also features decorative lighting, an awning and a spectacular reception desk designed by Maarten Baas and Bertjan Pot. These pieces showcase Leds Clay, a unique metal clay technique developed by Maarten and Bertjan.

Related: Rene Redzepi’s 108 Restaurant by Space Copenhagen.

[Images courtesy of Space Copenhagen. Photography by Peter Paul de Meijer.]