The Antwerp Design Week (ADW), which took place from June 2 to 7, marked its second edition as a crucial event for professionals in the design sector. What started as a modest initiative under the name ‘Deco Valley’ has now grown into a prestigious platform that brings together Belgian design brands to showcase their latest creations and visions. In this series of articles, we highlight some of the remarkable participants of ADW24. Today, we turn our spotlight on the brands Gommaire, Omar, and Mon Dada. In other words, 3x Belgian top design.
Gommaire: Timeless collections of natural materials
The Antwerp-based brand Gommaire, founded in 2015, is known for its unique furniture designs for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Led by one of the three original partners, Laurent De Greef, Gommaire distinguishes itself through its extensive use of wood and recycled materials. Their decorative pieces are often handmade; the glass is mouth-blown and the terracotta hand-turned. The colors are organic and inspired by nature, giving a timeless appeal. Although production largely takes place in Indonesia, all design is done in Antwerp, often by Laurent himself. This combination of Belgian creativity and high-quality craftsmanship results in beautiful, sustainable collections that are both stylish and functional. More information about Gommaire can be found here: https://gommaire.com
Omar: Quality textiles and cushions with a social vision
Omar, another remarkable brand from Antwerp, stands for quality textiles and cushions. Founded by Dieter Willsens and Tony Dons, Omar focuses on fabrics that exude quality with organic, natural colors. What makes Omar unique is that it is 100% Belgian, from design to production. The brand collaborates with workshops that employ people with limited or difficult access to the labor market, reflecting their vision of giving back to society. The cushions, plaids, and poufs produced by Omar are timeless in design and color, and the brand promotes a philosophy of slow fashion – the art of slowing down and enjoying. More information about Omar can be found here: https://www.omar-antwerp.be/.
Mon Dada: Luxury scented candles and concrete creations from Belgium
Mon Dada, born in New York City and handmade in Belgium, is the result of Pauline’s dream and perseverance. After losing her work permit, Pauline decided to start her own business and create luxury scented candles. She began by making concrete pots in her apartment and took candle-making classes to offer the best products on the market. Today, Mon Dada produces not only candles but also the concrete pots themselves, with a team of seven women creating unique pieces. Their candles burn evenly and for a long time, and the pots are treated to prevent green stains, making them perfect for reuse as decorative objects or plant vases. Mon Dada’s focus on craftsmanship and sustainability makes them a remarkable brand in the design world. More information about Mon Dada can be found here: https://mondadacollections.com/
