Every architect has a unique design identity. In recent years, one of the most discussed styles has been wabi-sabi, a philosophy embraced by some of the most renowned architects.
Consider a design philosophy that finds depth in simplicity, charm in the unfinished, and grace in the aged. This is the Japanese aesthetic known as wabi-sabi, which honours the beauty of time and imperfection. Wabi-sabi encourages us to recognise the deep in the ordinary, worn wood, broken ceramics, and rooms that seem alive with history far from the glossy sterility of modernity. It’s a theory that has subtly changed our perceptions of beauty and design by influencing some of the most renowned architects in the world.
Sutemi Horiguchi, a Japanese architect, was a pioneer in incorporating wabi-sabi into his designs. At a time when the global architectural trend leaned heavily toward modernism, defined by materials like concrete, steel, and glass, Horiguchi looked beyond to explore the essence of architecture in more natural, rural influences. His approach suggests he may have been ahead of his time, envisioning ideas aligned with post-modernism even before fully adopting modernist principles.
The well-known architect, antique and art dealer Axel Vervoordt is highly inspired by the essence of wabi-sabi. This is supported by an interview made with Tatler Asia where Vervoordt mentions how “A lot of what I do is about finding positive energy, so I like art that makes us see and feel things differently”, it is all about the look and feel.
Axel Vervoordt’s Home
His home being the castle of ‘s-Gravenwezel was renovated by Vervoordt himself. The castle dates back from the 13th century and was owned by a family till 1984 when Vervoordt purchased the property. The castle was a masterpiece renovated and put to life with the help of his wife, May. Rather than erasing its historic character, Vervoordt preserved its aged beauty, allowing the worn stones, faded frescoes, and patinated surfaces to tell their stories. The castle seamlessly integrates antique furnishings, curated art, and natural textures, creating a living space that feels both timeless and deeply personal. Vervoordt’s approach to the renovation celebrates imperfection and history, transforming the castle into a serene and harmonious retreat.
Tribeca Penthouse at the Greenwich Hotel
The Tribeca Penthouse, designed by Axel Vervoordt and owned by Robret De Niro, located in the Greenwich Hotel in New York City, is a magnificent illustration of wabi-sabi in action. The penthouse, which was designed in partnership with Japanese architect Tatsuro Miki, is a representation of sincerity, simplicity, and the beauty of nature. Reclaimed oak beams, hand-plastered walls, and stone flooring from Pennsylvania are some of the space’s meticulously chosen components that inspire a feeling of imperfection and timelessness.
With floor to ceiling windows opening onto a private terrace furnished with handcrafted furnishings and flora, the penthouse’s design effortlessly blends interior and outdoor areas. The rooms are flooded with natural light, which highlights the raw textures and earthy hues that characterise the area. Vervoordt’s idea of designing spaces that seem natural and profoundly connected to their surroundings is reflected in every little detail, from the carefully chosen furnishings to the handcrafted fixtures. The Tribeca Penthouse embodies the subtle beauty and deep harmony of wabi-sabi, providing a peaceful haven from the bustle of the city.
Photo background & 2: © Mari Luz Vidal for Openhouse; © Laziz Hamani; courtesy of Axel and May Vervoordt.
Photo 3: Website The Greenwhich Hotel Tribeca Penthouse
