A Scandinavian-inspired Apartment by the Sea for a Retired Couple
“I wanted to demonstrate that living in a small apartment can also be grand”, interior designer Camille Delbecque told Never Too Small. The founder of façon Camille, a design studio based in Ghent, was referring to a recent project in De Haan, Belgium: a 29 square meters (312 square feet) apartment for a retired couple looking to simplify and enjoy their golden years by the sea. Drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings, Delbecque fused Scandinavian style with classical elements, creating a modern yet timeless space that feels spacious, comfortable, full of personality, and – most importantly – grand.
The apartment was first built in 1970 and had never been renovated, and the worn-out linoleum floors, outdated kitchen, and cramped bathroom were the proof. The couple, who had lived on three continents throughout their careers, wanted a comfortable home with ample storage that reflected their new, slower pace of life, but that would also accommodate any physical limitations that come with ageing. Delbecque embraced both the opportunity and the unique coastal setting: “I was inspired by the surroundings of the apartment, such as the sea, the terracotta roof tiles of the nearby cottages, and the green of the trees in the neighborhood”.
Bright, Airy, and Deceptively Spacious
One of the first things you notice when entering the apartment is the bold black-and-white striped walls in the entrance. This playful reference to the striped beach window shades common on the Belgian coast serves not only as a fun focal point but also as a way to make the often-overlooked entrance feel more inviting. (Plus, it disguises the electrical box.) Just beyond the entrance is the open-concept living and dining space, which is bright, airy, and deceptively spacious – despite the apartment’s small footprint. It is easy to imagine relaxing on the sofa (which doubles as a guest bed) under the adjustable Lampe GRAS N°214 by DCW éditions. Or perching yourself on the dining bench by the window with a good book and ample natural light.
Just across the room is the kitchen, which though small, is practical and efficient. There’s also always the rolling kitchen trolley to provide extra workspace when required. Delbecque chose a deep grey-green Fenix matte finish for the kitchen cabinets that helps create a sense of zoning within the open layout without overwhelming the space. It is also a nice balance to the terracotta colour of the dining chairs and pendant lamp above the table that can seat up to 6.
Seaside Slumbers
The bedroom is compact, initially designed to only hold a single bed. With clever planning, Delbecque managed to fit a double bed and still leave enough room for easy movement around the space. She lined the wall above the bed with a custom soft grey and white dune-patterned wallpaper from Isidore Leroy adds a subtle seaside reference, giving the room depth and a sense of calm. A terracotta-colored ceiling enhances the room’s cozy atmosphere and forges a subtle connection between the living room and bedroom – a theme that continues on into the ensuite bathroom.
Originally a closed off space at the end of the bathroom with no access to natural light, the bathroom got an impressive facelift. Delbecque removed the original wall and replaced it with a sleek steel-and-glass partition (with a window!), allowing natural light and air to flow through the space. Terrazzo-style floor tiles were added for a contemporary touch, while the playful use of three different shades on the bathroom cabinets inject a sense of whimsy.
A Seamless Blend of Style and Functionality
Delbecque’s design approach is a testament to the power of small, thoughtful changes in transforming a space. “Small, tailored changes can really make a big difference. I love to create different atmospheres in small spaces, so that you can experience a sense of discovery and wonder when moving from one area to another”, Delbecque told us, before reaffirming, “Living in a small apartment can absolutely be grand”.
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