(M+A STUDIO)
Meet the five new residents:the next wave of Belgian design at M+A STUDIO — Q2
Belgian design continues to gain international recognition, driven by a generation of designers who combine bold ideas with strong aesthetics and meaningful stories. At M+A STUDIO, we created the Design in Residency program to offer these voices what they need most: visibility, connection and a supportive creative community. The residency turns our studio into a cultural platform: a place where emerging and independent designers connect with audiences, share their practice, and shape conversations around contemporary design. Each edition, five Belgian designers or design-led brands are invited to join, each contributing a distinct perspective that enriches both the studio and the wider design landscape. This edition introduces five residents who represent the forward momentum of Belgian design. Their practices span collectible objects, poetic minimalism, architectural clarity and playful form together illustrating the richness and diversity of a creative field that continues to grow in impact and relevance. scrol to read the full story
Nino De Ceuster explores the intersection of craft and experimentation. Material is never secondary, it drives the process and determines the final form. Each object carries both precision and openness, offering design that feels solid yet full of discovery. This piece takes shape as a stop motion video, where every element reflects Moroccan craftsmanship, symbolism and material tradition reinterpreted through contemporary design. The central base is composed of 2,500 handcrafted ceramic mosaic tiles, paying tribute to traditional Moroccan mosaic art. A steel structure of eight L-shaped profiles — two per tabletop — is magnetically anchored to the layers above. The tabletops, made of Mortex, evoke the texture and finish of Moroccan tadelakt, forming together meaningful cultural symbols. The seating consists of eight poufs, upholstered with fully hand-tufted fabric, designed for ergonomic comfort aligned with Western standards. Rooted in Moroccan culture through materiality, symbolism, handcraft and color, this work creates a dialogue between tradition and modern functionality, where heritage meets contemporary form.
Onas Uytdewilligen – Forged by Intuition 05 Forged by Intuition 05 is the final work in Onas Uytdewilligen’s series Forged by Intuition, which comprises five chairs. Each chair is a reinterpretation and redesign of the previous one, evolving from No. 01 through to No. 05. The series investigates how intuition can serve as both a source of inspiration and a method within the design process. Through continuous making and reflection, intuition becomes something tangible. A guiding principle that can be analyzed, understood and applied. As the series progressed, functionality gained increasing importance. Forged by Intuition 05 represents the most resolved and functional design, while still maintaining the intuitive essence that defined the earlier works. The chair consists of two main elements: the seat, hand-hammered into a sculptural shell, and the frame, which provides structure and support. Alongside the chairs, Onas also developed a series of stools, extending the same exploration of material, form, and instinct into new functional variations.
Janneke Vanneste – Vidimus Vidimus, Latin for “I have seen”, was historically the term used by churches to mark their approval of stained-glass window designs. In this collection, Janneke Vaneste reinterprets the narrative power of colored glass within a contemporary design language. Inspired by the centuries old tradition of stained glass in ecclesiastical architecture, the collection consists of two objects that together explore the dialogue between earth and sky. The green coffee table positions itself below an imagined horizon line, symbolizing the earthly realm. The blue cabinet, rising vertically, embodies the celestial dimension. Sunlight activates this duality: color, reflection and transparency create a continuously shifting play of light that transforms the surrounding space. As in traditional stained glass, light acts as the storyteller, each moment of the day writing a new narrative. Different types of glass, including cathedral glass, blown glass and window glass. Each with their own optical qualities, connect contemporary design with artisanal tradition. Handcrafted with precision and care, these pieces invite contemplation and renewed appreciation for the poetic power of light and color in everyday life. Vidimus stands as an homage to the timeless beauty of stained glass, translated into a contemporary form where tradition and innovation converge. POLLIE – hand sculpture in collaboration with @ipo_emma_brankaer@emma_brankaer@_vicpeeters_ @ramongsje The goal of Polli is to create an empathetic environment where children who experience loneliness can express and process different emotions. Through Polli, they aim to offer a platform where children can find comfort, interaction and means of expression, helping them better cope with feelings of loneliness and improve their emotional well-being. Polli takes the form of a large hand-shaped sculpture, designed as both a comforting presence and a playful space. When presented at The Tiny Edit, children were immediately drawn to it. Climbing, resting and playing on it with pure enthusiasm. Their spontaneous interaction revealed Polli’s power to spark joy, connection, and imagination, turning emotional support into an experience of play.
Bemelmans Design is a contemporary Belgian design studio founded by Wout Bemelmans and Lode Debackere. They are interior product designers united by a passion for graphical interplay, architectural precision and hands on craftsmanship. Each piece is conceived with purpose, created sustainably in house and embodies stories of dedication, materiality and beauty. In Wout Bemelmans’ words: “Our design philosophy is rooted in a commitment to robust features and handcrafted quality. We draw inspiration from the dynamic interplay of graphical elements and architectural lines.”
Home Studyo is celebrated for collectible objects that combine colour, character and play. Their work brings humour and personality into everyday life, while maintaining a sharp cultural edge. Each piece is instantly recognisable, proving that design can be joyful and serious at once. This new edition of the residency confirms what we believe in most: Belgian design deserves visibility, community and a stage to grow. By opening our studio, we bring together emerging designers, audiences and ideas creating a platform that connects talent with opportunity. The journey has only just begun and we look forward to sharing it with you.
We’re beyond excited to welcome and represent these five incredible talents at M+A STUDIO.Inquiries: nel@marnixandally.com
(info)
We don’t just do PR — we create brand love.Marnix and Ally is a creative pr agency based in Antwerp. We help brands grow by building real connections through strategy, storytelling, content and community building. For any PR inquiries, requests, or information related to Design in Residency, don’t hesitate to reach out to info@marnixandally.com. ▲ Marnix and Ally is dedicated to ensuring you have the resources and support you need. Stay connected with us on Instagram and LinkedIn.
