HENK at home with Justine Kegels

In the 'HENK at home' series, we visit people who inspire us to give you a glimpse into their daily lives at home. This time, we visit interior architect and lifestyle influencer Justine Kegels.

We arrive in Antwerp on a sunny morning to visit Justine; she lives in a classic, spacious apartment built between 1920 and 1925 with high ceilings and beautiful ornaments. Upon entering the hall, there is a low table with carefully displayed floor tile samples; it immediately reveals her profession as an interior designer. She lives here with her boyfriend, a musician from the band Jungle, for a few more months before the couple emigrates to London.

Justine, interior design is your passion; how would you describe your own interior style?

"In general, my style is quite minimalist, and I work a lot with neutral tones in my furniture. I add colour accents through the use of accessories, but the base remains serene. Art also plays an important role in my interior, and I actually consider the works as objects; that's why I don't hang paintings, for example, but let them lean against the wall on the floor. For example, there is now an enormous painting in the living room made by my friend during a creative outburst during the lockdown. In our search for our new place in London, we also looked for a classic architectural style; a space needs to inspire me. If you put me in a new-build apartment, I will be terribly unhappy."

Who are your favourite interior designers?

"I find Kelly Wearstler very inspiring; her style is generally much more colourful and eclectic than my personal taste, but I always draw elements from her designs. I also find Charles Zana interesting; he creates a beautiful experience with colour. And then, of course, Axel Vervoordt, our 'Belgian pride'."

Are there specific places in the world that inspire you?

"Morocco! I've been going there since I was seven because my grandparents built a riad there that we've visited every year since. The attention to detail and craftsmanship with which they create is something that has almost been eradicated in Western culture. The use of natural materials and warm colours inspire me, and I always take a souvenir home, such as the cushions on my chaise longue."

You're leaving Antwerp soon; what places will you miss the most?

"For a special breakfast, I like to go to the new place Rush Rush, and for lunch, you can often find me at Tinsel, a place run by our friends. I'm not a great cook, and if I fancy a tasty (gluten-free) pizza, I get it from Orso. When I'm looking for inspiration or feel like shopping, I go to Kloosterstraat; it's full of nice interior shops like Recollection, Espoo, Christiaensen & Christiaensen, and of course, Studio HENK."

Why did you choose the Luna Chair?

"I was still looking for a beautiful armchair for my living room. The chair is so comfortable, especially because of the wide, soft armrest, and I get that feedback from all my guests who sit in the Luna!"

Do you think the Luna lounge chair will also shine in your interior? Here you can personalize the chair to your own taste; there are plenty of options!