Vincent Van Duysen: Architecture as an Art of Living
Written By LE BOOK
In the contemporary world of design and architecture, few names carry the quiet power of Vincent Van Duysen. The Belgian architect and designer is celebrated for his ability to blur boundaries between inside and out, architecture and interiors, form and feeling. Whether in collaboration with brands like Molteni&C, Flos and Zara Home or in his serene residential and commercial projects, Van Duysen continues to redefine how we inhabit space: with soul, with restraint, with purpose.
“I’ve never thought of interior design as being separate from architecture: interiors are architecture,” he says unequivocally.
To Vincent Van Duysen, a wall is never just a surface, it is a place to live, to feel, to exist within.
A Total Philosophy of Space
Van Duysen is inspired by the concept of Gesamtkunstwerk - a total work of art. His architectural vision extends far beyond structure, encompassing light, furniture, materials, and even the emotional climate of a room. When Van Duysen speaks of Gesamtkunstwerk, he refers to his way of conceiving a space in its entirety - where architecture, furniture, materials, lighting, and even everyday objects are designed together to create a coherent, harmonious, and deeply human atmosphere. It is not just about constructing a place, but about composing a holistic living experience, where every detail matters.
“Architecture is not just the physical construction of a space, but the creation of places to live, surrounded by art, furniture, and objects. All of these elements are part of this art of living that defines my path.”
This "path" is a continuous dialogue between architectural rigor, organic warmth, and an unwavering pursuit of balance between emotion and function.
Materials as Emotional Language
At the heart of Van Duysen’s work lies a deep reverence for materiality. Natural elements—wood, concrete, stone, raw textiles are not decorative, they are expressive. They speak of time, age, use, and atmosphere.
“Natural materials are central to my creations. They instill serenity and wholeness. These are raw elements that develop a patina of timelessness and warmth over time.”
Van Duysen’s mastery lies in his ability to create minimalism that is not cold, but layered and intimate spaces that are refined, yet soulful.
“I’m not into minimalist, sober interiors. I want soul. I work with layers and contrasts to achieve a kind of warm sensuality.”
Light as Architecture
Light, for Van Duysen, is not an afterthought. It is architecture in itself.
“Light is as much a construction material as a brick. The quality of light shapes the emotions you feel within a space.”
His spaces often balance luminous openness with more shaded, meditative zones. Light, in his hands, becomes a sculptural and emotional force.
Heritage, Collaboration, and Respect
From historic farms in Europe to urban lofts in New York, Van Duysen embraces the challenge of breathing new life into old structures.
“The key is to respect the existing architecture—its heritage, its details. The challenge is often structural, but also in selecting materials and finishes that bring a place back to life while making it timeless and functional.”
This same sensibility shapes his role as Artistic Director at Molteni&C, where his vision harmonizes with the brand’s legacy.
“Molteni&C isn’t about loud design—it’s understated sophistication, like my own creations. We share a respect for heritage, craftsmanship, and the beauty of select materials.”
An Ideal Dinner with Masters of Design
Asked who he would invite to dine in one of his spaces, Van Duysen names three legends who embody the poetic restraint and emotional depth he admires:
Jean-Michel Frank: a master of refined minimalism and luxurious simplicity.
Carlo Scarpa: celebrated for his sensitive craftsmanship and innovative use of materials.
Luis Barragán: revered for his vibrant yet meditative approach to architecture and color.
“These designers represent timeless sophistication and deep respect for space and material - qualities I cherish and strive to bring into my own work.”
A Human-Centered Vision
Van Duysen’s architecture is not just about beauty—it’s about human experience. His design process begins with understanding how people live, and ends with spaces that feel calm, intuitive, and alive.
“Since the beginning of my career, architecture has always been about humanity designing spaces where people feel protected and relaxed.”
His concept of the “art of living” is not a style; it’s a philosophy of care, grounded in empathy, precision, and purity.
“It’s about understanding how people live so that I can shape that into my work. The art of living is a holistic effort: it combines passion, research, and the pursuit of timelessness and serenity.”
Advice for the Next Generation
With humility, Vincent Van Duysen offers simple, profound advice to young designers:
“Be passionate and committed. Be curious and open-minded. Listen to people. Be grateful for the creative talent you’ve been given.”
Design, he reminds us, is not a race: it’s a journey of presence, instinct, and perseverance.
If Walls Could Talk
Asked which designers or architects he’d invite to dinner, Van Duysen names Jean-Michel Frank, Carlo Scarpa, and Luis Barragán: three masters of poetic restraint and spatial emotion. And if he had to design a space inspired by a music genre?
“A space dedicated to silence, introspection, and meditation.”
Even in imagination, his architecture remains a place of retreat, a sanctuary from noise.
In a world oversaturated with excess, Vincent Van Duysen offers quiet clarity. His work is a reminder that design is not only about what we see, but what we feel and how we live. An architecture of stillness. A poetry of space.
“Without light, life doesn’t exist. Nor does architecture.”
And without Vincent Van Duysen, it might lack soul.