In the heart of Antwerp, hidden behind the walls of a former 15th-century monastery, lies Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp – a five-star hotel that offers a harmonious blend of historic heritage and contemporary design. This exclusive retreat exudes luxury and tranquility and has been carefully designed with respect for the past and a focus on modern comfort.
The Botanic Health Spa, spanning 1,000 m² across three floors, offers a holistic wellness experience. Guests can enjoy a panoramic swimming pool, luxurious saunas, and steam rooms, as well as serene relaxation spaces that provide an oasis of calm. For those who prefer to stay active, there is a 24/7 Health Club equipped with state-of-the-art fitness facilities.
Gastronomy enthusiasts can indulge in four Michelin-starred restaurants, each led by a Michelin-starred chef, ensuring an extraordinary dining experience. With its outstanding facilities and attention to detail, Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp offers an unparalleled experience for the discerning traveler.
Where Modern Luxury and Heritage Come Together in the Design of Rebecca Verstraete
For The Interior Guide, I had the privilege of receiving an exclusive tour of the hotel from Rebecca Verstraete, the interior designer behind this exceptional project. As we walked through the atmospheric corridors, elegant suites, and serene spa, she shared insights into her design choices, vision, and the challenges of this unique renovation project.
Rebecca has a background in architecture and renovation and quickly specialized in interior design. She realized early on that she did not want to leave projects ‘unfinished’ and developed a design approach where everything is in balance, creating a cohesive and immersive experience. Her style is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, rich materials, and a respectful approach to existing architecture. This principle was also applied at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, where the historical value of the building played a decisive role in her design choices.
In spaces with a rich history, she kept the design understated to let the existing elements speak for themselves, whereas in the more modern parts of the hotel, she introduced additional colors and details. Earthy tones and high-quality fabrics such as wool, linen, and silk contribute to the calming atmosphere. This quiet luxury is carried throughout the hotel, from the spa to the restaurants and suites.
During our tour, Rebecca spoke about the challenges that came with renovating a historic building. At times, it meant that certain elements had to remain untouched. For example, in the famous ‘blue room,’ a specific wall could not be painted due to heritage regulations. Instead of seeing this as a limitation, Rebecca embraced it as an opportunity to preserve the building’s authenticity.
The various spaces within the hotel each have their own atmosphere yet form a harmonious whole. The bar is a striking example of Rebecca’s style, featuring bold colors, luxurious fabrics, and strong contrasts. The chandeliers, originally silver, were transformed into bronze statement pieces, creating a warmer and richer appearance. Other areas of the hotel have more subtle interior choices, depending on the function and character of the space.
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the right ambiance. Rebecca paid great attention to the placement of light sources and used pinpoint spotlights to subtly highlight specific elements such as artworks or furniture pieces. Additionally, she designed several custom furniture pieces, such as the long bench in the hallway, which could not be freestanding due to fire regulations but was cleverly integrated to maintain an inviting character. Antique furniture was also reupholstered and seamlessly incorporated into the interior, creating a unique fusion of historical character and modern luxury.
Key Elements to Recreate This Ambiance
For those who wish to recreate the warm, elegant atmosphere of Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp at home, Rebecca suggests opting for a refined and understated approach. Calm and harmony are achieved not only through neutral tones but primarily through consistent layering of materials and textures. In the hotel, she extensively used earthy colors and natural fabrics such as wool, linen, and silk to create a timeless, luxurious aesthetic.
An important tip is to apply contrast subtly. Ton-sur-ton color schemes ensure cohesion, even with deeper or more intense hues. The goal is not to avoid color but to find the right balance. A piece of art or an antique furniture piece can add personality and intrigue to a space without disrupting its tranquility.
Additionally, materials and finishes play a significant role. Even the smallest details—such as doors without visible frames—contribute to a serene ambiance.
Texture and contrast bring depth without creating visual clutter. If a room already has a wooden ceiling, opt for a different flooring material, such as wool carpeting, to maintain balance. When using a rug, keep it neutral—it should be felt but not immediately noticed. These principles define the signature of Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp: quiet luxury, where refinement is found in every detail.
Staying Connected to Botanic
Despite many other projects, ranging from renovations to country estates and modern penthouses, Rebecca remains closely connected to Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp. Not only does she love spending time there, but she also plays an active role in ensuring that the interior continues to evolve. This summer, a lighter, seasonal edition of the bar will be introduced, allowing the hotel’s ambiance to adapt to the changing seasons. Additionally, she is expanding the spa with an innovative IV Drip Therapy room, elevating the wellness experience to an even higher level.
At Botanic, her signature remains ever-present; a subtle balance between historical heritage and contemporary luxury that creates an experience both timeless and refreshing. A unique, ever-evolving atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression.
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp – Leopoldstraat 26, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium – +32 3 269 00 00
