Ferm Living shared a glimpse into a century-old art deco apartment in the heart of Antwerp, where Olivier de Croock has found the perfect canvas to express his ever-evolving design philosophy. As the founder of Studio Croock, a practice specialising in interior decoration and floral design, he channels the same intentionality and precision into his personal living space as he does in his work.
'In many ways, building a floral display and creating a home start the same way. You begin with the base - a room for an interior project or with a table for a flower arrangement. The difference lies in the outcome: a floral display is designed to capture a moment, while a home is about creating something everlasting.'
Sharing the apartment with his partner Hannes and their two Dachshunds, Coco and Blue, Olivier has used his sharp, curatorial eye to infuse the historic home with a sense of curiosity and calm. The living room showcases this perfectly. Along one wall, a large bookcase brimming with art books, magazines, and personal mementoes offers a glimpse into Olivier's inner world. Earthy walls and herringbone flooring create the perfect backdrop for dark-stained statement pieces like the UTA Piece, Kona Bookcase and Kona Daybed. These carefully considered elements complement bold features, such as the stainless steel fireplace, which is softly illuminated by a series of Gale Candle Holders.
'It's the details of a room that truly anchor the space and make it unmistakably yours.'
In the dining room, a series of thoughtful materials and tones evoke warmth and create a grounded atmosphere. The industrial-inspired Lager Trolley doubles as a bar cart for the intimate dinners and gatherings that Olivier and Hannes often host for their closest friends. At the heart of the space stands a large vintage table, its expansive surface anchoring the room and inviting conversation and connection. Here, the Tumbled Plates and Tumbled Cups-tableware defined by its unique tumbled surface-mingle with an assortment of vintage curios and tableware.
'I'd describe my style as pure and timeless, influenced by everything from artists who inspire me and friends with great taste to small details I've picked up somewhere along the way.'
Olivier's design process is deeply intuitive, shaped by his experiences and his travels.
'I rely on a feeling,' he shares. 'Sometimes I'll see something online or while travelling, and I just know that it's the one.' This instinctive approach has resulted in a home that feels both personal and reflective of his creative journey. His move to Antwerp marked a significant turning point. 'Before living here, my style was more eclectic and vibrant. Antwerp taught me to refine my perspective and embrace cohesion,' he explains.
The relationship between Olivier's professional practice and his living space is undeniable. While his floral arrangements often embody bold, ephemeral statements, his interiors are grounded in longevity. 'For a home, I gravitate toward a style that is calm, but I also appreciate individual pieces that command attention.' Looking ahead, Olivier envisions his practice and his interiors evolving in tandem.
More information:
Oliver de Croock
www.instagram.com/olivierdecroock
ferm living
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www.fermliving.com