How (Belgian) design blends heritage with high-tech thinking

Belgian design isn’t just beautiful. It’s clever. It thinks about form and feeling but also about function, flexibility, sustainability, and smart production.

At Antwerp Design Week, you’ll meet a wave of brands that push tradition into the future. This is not tech for tech’s sake. This is craftsmanship upgraded. These makers turn smart ideas into soulful objects and they do it in ways that are deeply Belgian.

POQQ – Where tech meets tactile beauty

POQQ makes wireless chargers. But not the plastic ones you hide behind books. These are made in Belgium, crafted from wood, natural stone, bronze and even custom fabric. Built with the latest Qi2 charging standard, POQQ chargers are fast, durable, and tailor-made to fit your interior style. Want your name engraved? Want to match your cushions? No problem. “We believe tech can be warm, meaningful, and personal.” Charging has never felt so… chic.

KEWLOX – Rethinking a 60-year-old classic

KEWLOX is a Belgian icon. Their modular cabinets have been part of our interiors for decades. But now, they’re pushing their system further.

At ADW, they present their brand-new cantilevered desk—designed by Julien Renault, and awarded five design labels at Design Nation Kortrijk. It integrates effortlessly with KEWLOX’s modular system, but adds a contemporary, floating aesthetic. “We wanted to create something that fits the modern home—but stays true to our DNA.” A quiet revolution in smart storage.

Cosentino – Innovation below the surface

Though based in Spain, Cosentino plays a key role in ADW thanks to its deep ties with Belgian architects and interiors. Known for products like Silestone and Dekton, Cosentino leads in ultra-durable, sustainable surface materials.

“We work with recycled materials, water-saving technology and renewable energy. Every slab we produce tells a story of resilience.”

Their presence at ADW is a celebration of what happens when craftsmanship meets global R&D.

Paveau – The design of daily rituals

What if your water bottle was as beautiful as your glassware? Paveau was born from that question. The result is a collection of reusable carafes and glasses made from borosilicate glass—light, durable, elegant.

Crafted by 12 artisans per piece, these bottles elevate hydration into a conscious, visual pleasure.

“Water is precious. We want people to cherish every drop—beautifully.”

At ADW, they unveil new colours and a hospitality-ready collection at the stunning Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp.

Studio Saudade – Symbolism, simplicity, substance

Studio Saudade takes a minimal, almost poetic approach to design. With pieces that evoke memory, symbolism, and timeless beauty, their new collection shown at ADW blends ancient references with modern refinement. “Smart design doesn’t always shout. Sometimes it whispers in silence, and that’s where meaning lives.”

Their work invites you to slow down and look again. Because meaning is a form of innovation, too.

Conclusion: Brains & hands, working together

The smartest design isn’t flashy. It’s thoughtful. It solves problems quietly. It lasts. It feels personal.

Whether it's a wireless charger that feels like a sculpture, or a candle holder you’ll never want to throw away, these Belgian makers remind us that real innovation begins with care—and ends with something you’ll actually want to live with.

Antwerp Design Week. Your design surprise in pocketsize.

Come see what smart craft looks like—Belgian style.