HENK at home with Florence Cools
In the HENK at home series, we visit people who inspire us to give you a glimpse into their daily lives. This time, we visit Florence Cools, co-founder and creative director of La Collection, at her home in Antwerp. La Collection is a modern and conscious luxury fashion brand that she founded in 2017 with her husband Artur Tadevosian. We talk about her design principles, what she looks for in a piece of furniture, and smarter shopping.
How would you describe your interior style?
Minimalist with a nonchalant edge. I don't like a traditional approach: one piece of furniture or accessory is designer, the other comes from a flea market.
You are the creative director of the fashion brand La Collection; what is your biggest source of inspiration?
The biggest is art; especially contemporary and abstract art are a great source of inspiration in terms of colour. Fall Winter 23 is entirely inspired by a sculpture by Alexander Calder in terms of colours.
What are you most proud of in your home?
My 'small' art collection so far, featuring works by Ileana Moro and Eleanor Herbosch.
What do you consider when purchasing a new piece of furniture?
I mainly need to have a feeling for it, and it also needs to fit in with the collection of existing pieces. If I notice that a piece of furniture sticks in my mind, then it's a good sign! I buy everything for life, and I want to build a beautiful collection of quality pieces over the years.
How does sustainability play a role in your life?
Sustainability is intertwined in so many aspects of my life. For me, it's about choosing high-quality pieces that I know I will use for the rest of my life. I can truly save up and look forward to that one perfect item and then cherish it forever. This applies to my fashion purchases, as well as my interior and the renovation of our home.
You have the Studio HENK Base chair, Base bench, and the New Co coffee table. What appeals to you about these designs?
The minimalist lines, the beautiful dark smoked wood. The lines of the Base bench remind me of a monastery bench, but with a modern twist. The Base chair and New Co coffee table bring me peace. A corner to relax in between the hustle and bustle. These are the elements that strongly attract me when choosing furniture.