Further Research: Axel Vervoordt - The philosophy of Wabi-Sabi in Interior Design

My name is Thi Chau Ngoc Pham, and now I'm studying Art and Design at DMUIC with Interior Design as main major. When I was a child, I really loved drawing furniture and my own toys as well as playing with different colors. Therefore, I want to be an interior designer in the future with rustic and natural style. 

I am going to begin my research by looking more in Axel Vervoordt's works to improve my own project. I chose to research Axel Vervoordt because I felt that his Wabi-Sabi philosophy in interior design reflect the calm and natural elements that I aim to express in my major project. His design language focuses on imperfection, simplicity, and the beauty of natural design. "Wabi is the veauty of imperfection. Accepting things as they are" (Vervoordt, TL Magazine, 2019). His interior often feature arw materials such as wood, stone, and linen. The combination of light, shadow, and texture create a peaceful atmosphere rather than focusing on luxury or perfection. These are the elements I intend to put into my final design to create a living space that feels emotionally balanced. 

Kanaal Project 

One of the best Axel Vervoordt's works is the Kanaal Project in Belgium. He turned an old factory area from the 19th century into a modern living and cultural space while keeping its original look. The walls are cracked, the concrete is aged, but everything feels calm and beautiful in a simple way. Vervoordt once said, "A kneeling or bowing branch is nature's design - a symbol of time passing, a symbol of humility that adds harmony to the environments of life." (Vervoordt, Stories and Reflections, 2021). This project shows the real meaning of Wabi-Sabi, that's mean finding beauty in imperfection and time. The soft light and neutral colors make the place peaceful and relaxing. I really like this project because it proves that even old and imperfect materials can create a strong feeling. I want to use a similar idea in my own concept to make my design calm and balanced. 

The Penthouse of the Greenwich Hotel 

Another great example of Axel Vervoordt's design is the Penthouse at the Greenwich Hotel in New York. He worked with architect Tatsuro Miki to create  a space that feels warm, simple, and natural. The room has wooden columns, wooden table, and handmade furniture, so everything looks natural and imperfect, but it feels very comfortable and real. Vervoordt said, "I believe beauty is not about perfection; it's about authenticity." (Vervoordt, Wabi Sabi Life, 2020). This project also shows the Wabi-Sabi idea, including using natural light, simple forms, and natural materials to create peace and rustic. It makes me want to design a space where people can relax and feel close to nature, instead of focusing on perfection or decoration. 

The Oriental Salon at Kasteel van's-Gravenwezel 

This room in Axel Vervoordt's home, the Castle of's-Gravenwezel, shows the idea of Wabi-Sabi. The space feels calm and natural. The old wooden ceiling and rough plaster walls are not perfect, but that's what makes the room look so rustic. The natural textures and aged materials bring a warm, peaceful feeling. Additionally, the furniture is simple, including soft chairs, a low table, and natural materials like wood and linen. There's nothing too fancy, btu everything feels balanced. The decoration is minimal, with a few Asian artworks and braches places naturally in vases. This shows how Vervoordt combines Eastern and Western cultural in a quiet and elegant way. Moreover, the lighting is also very soft, creating shadows that add depth and emotion to the space. The whole room gives a feeling of calmness, which fits with Wabi-Sabi philosophy. He once said, "I always search for silence and the purity that comes from natural materials and time." (Axel Vervoordt, Wabi Inspirations, 2011). 

After researching, I think I can show what Wabi-Sabi means in my design. For me, it's about finding beauty in simple and imperfect things. I can use Wabi-Sabi by choosing materials like wood and stone that look natural and age nicely. I will keep the design simple and use soft lighting to create a peaceful mood. Moreover, I learned that he likes to use empty space and natural light to show emotion. I want to do the same in my project. I will focus on how the space feels, not just how it looks, so my clients can feel calm and connected to it. 

For my clients, they need a space where they can relax and feel calm. They don't want something to fancy or perfect. When they walk in, they will experience a quite and warm feeling. The textures, lighting, ad layout will help them slow down and enjoy the moment instead of feeling rushed. 

Reference:

'Kanaal Project' - https://www.world-architects.com/en/architecture-news/specials/superlative-art-axel-vervoordts-kanaal-project

'The Penhouse of the Greenwich Hotel' - https://www.readcereal.com/articles/the-tribeca-penthouse

'The Oriential Salon at Kasteel van's-Gravenwezel' - https://uk.gestalten.com/blogs/living-under-the-sun/a-sense-of-distilled-harmony-transforms-a-belgian-castle