Belgian designer Michaël Verheyden creates extraordinary objects for everyday rituals. His designs are the result of his quest for simplicity in an ever-changing world. Verheyden prefers to work with noble, durable materials that feel natural and age beautifully. He has worked closely with local artisans since starting his career in 2002 and
has been a member of the VAKlab community since 2014. A Limburger with an international track record, he collaborates with local makers and is also an established name in the international design market. Michaël Verheyden has been trying to start a collaboration with the makers from Bokrijk for some time. VAKlab and designer Michaël Verheyden share the same mission: to underline the importance of local craftsmanship. Milan Design Week was a great opportunity to work together on showcasing contemporary craftsmanship abroad.
Verheyden explains: "The exchange of ideas and techniques is one of the most beautiful aspects of our work. Working with local artisans to create something new - something that is both innovative and meaningful - is the essence of design." The presentation in Milan is so much more than a product exhibition.
The presentation in Milan is so much more than a product exhibition for VAKlab and Verheyden. It is an opportunity to showcase Bokrijk's craftsmanship worldwide and highlight the impact of local craft on the international stage.
SERPA-TABLES
Blacksmith Dirk Van Esser works with steel using traditional techniques. In his workshop, he forged the frames for the upholstered BIUR armchair and the SERPA side tables. The elegant wrought iron design combines strength with sophistication.
BIUR armchair
For the BIUR armchair, Martine Geladi weaved the hemp fabric, while Sophie Doore upholstered the furniture. Thanks to its natural materials and durable finish, this piece perfectly embodies Verheyden's design philosophy.
TRESTOL-chair
For TRESTOL, he translated Verheyden's inspiration into a series of wooden chairs and objects that highlight the timeless beauty of craftsmanship.
TIBU-lamp
The TIBU table lamp is the result of the collaboration between Verheyden and De Ratelaar. Internationally renowned weavers Jefke Geysels and Jeanny Bouwen incorporated traditional techniques into the lampshade, with a contemporary look.
COLONNE-ceramics
Atelier Franssens creates tiles and ceramic objects. For this project, the studio made the ceramic objects COLONNE and BUSC CERAMIC, which explore and renew the technical boundaries of ceramics.
HOLT TRE-chair
Il Granito worked with Verheyden to enhance the level of detail and craftsmanship with the onyx version of HOLT TRE. Onyx embodies luxury and sophistication, characteristics typical of Verheyden's work.
LUSIK-vase
Frederik Rombach is the founder of RERO Glass. For over ten years, he has been exploring the technique of giving waste glass a new life. The hand-blown LUSIK vase is a refined expression of this.