Where interiors and experience merge

A hotel as a destination in itself

The newest showpiece on the Belgian coast, The Ostendian, is much more than just another hotel. With a distinct identity inspired by the grandeur of Ostend and the flair of the 70s and 80s, this unique project was co-designed from A to Z by BLCN DESIGN. Founder and designer Bart Balcaen takes us through the design story of this ambitious hospitality project.

When Xavier Vercaemst of C-Hotels contacted BLCN DESIGN in July 2022, the idea for The Ostendian was still in its infancy. "We wanted to create something unique," says Balcaen. "Not just a hotel that could be anywhere, but a destination in itself. Ostend has a rich history, and we wanted to reflect that in the interior. It had to be a place that excites guests, surprises them and tells a story."

Collaborating with Dries and Yuri of The Brand Guys (WASBAR, Chez Claire, ...) was a logical step for Flow Hospitality Group. "We had initially drawn up some mood boards. They took this into account in the development of their concept. From their strong concept, we designed the interior completely bespoke, aiming to capture the soul of Ostend in colours, shapes and materials."

From inspiration to realisation

The Ostendian was intended to be a contemporary homage to the city's distinctive elements. This is reflected in the rounded shapes, textures and materials that refer directly to the coastal city: travertine floors, walnut wood, glass tiles and stainless steel accents. "We wanted to capture the atmosphere of the 70s and 80s, without falling into retro parody," Balcaen explains. "It had to remain contemporary, with a subtle nod to the past."

One of the eye-catchers is the lobby, where various design elements come together. The space has the atmosphere of a stylish boulevard, with typical dike tiles, a ceiling full of mirrors and a central kiosk. "We wanted the lobby to be a place that makes an immediate impression," says Balcaen. "Guests should instantly feel and experience upon entering that this hotel breathes Ostend."

The bar and breakfast area embrace the nightlife and theatre feel, including a glass dance floor and disco elements subtly woven into the design. "The idea is that guests walk through the bar in the morning and already feel like returning in the evening," he says.

Customisation in every nook and cranny

A project like The Ostendian requires customisation down to the smallest details. "We didn't want a copy-paste design. Everything was designed from the concept," says Balcaen. From the furniture to the wall coverings and lighting, everything was tailor-made to enhance the atmosphere and experience. "Among other things, we worked with Satellite for the furniture, selecting fabrics and materials with the entire team to set the right atmosphere. Everything down to the last detail and customised for this project."

The 113 rooms, each unique in design, were created around typical elements linked to Ostend, the environment around the hotel and the style period, from the 70s and 80s. Everything with an Ostend twist, as it should be. In turn, the windows of the luggage area and back office were created with arcades that refer to the city's Venetian galleries."

In addition, materials were chosen throughout the hotel that reinforce the atmosphere of the 70s and 80s, the 'contemporary soul' that The Brand Guys envisioned. For example, chrome, brushed stainless steel and stainless steel play a prominent role in the interior. The canopies above the reception and bar, for example, are finished with solid stainless steel details, while throughout the hotel velvet is one of the mood creators. "These materials create a subtle, unique and luxurious look that fits perfectly within the concept," Balcaen says.

Intensive process with strong results

The design process of The Ostendian took over two years and BLCN DESIGN was involved in all phases. From the initial concept sketches and structural phase to the technical execution, fit-out and styling. "We sat with the contractors and technical teams on a weekly basis. This was not a project where you only come to arrange the cushions at the end," laughs Balcaen.

That intensive process is now bearing fruit. The Ostendian is ready to set a new standard in the Belgian hotel sector. "It is a project we are enormously proud of," Balcaen concludes. "A hotel that offers guests not just a bed, but a total experience. And that is exactly what BLCN DESIGN stands for: interiors with a soul."