Hotel Julien in Antwerp renovated its interior in collaboration with Bea Mombaers and Peter Ivens

In 2004, just over 20 years ago, Hotel Julien opened its doors as one of the very first boutique hotels in the heart of Antwerp. Housed in two beautifully restored 16th-century buildings, the hotel – with its 21 rooms, bar, rooftop terrace and wellness area – has since become a peaceful haven in the city’s historic centre.

Now, Hotel Julien reopens following a major renovation. Owner Mouche Van Hool appointed interior architect Peter Ivens and Bea Mombaers to give the hotel a complete makeover, while preserving the unique charm and warm, homely atmosphere that have made it a hidden gem from the very beginning – loved by tourists, international business travellers and local cosmopolitans alike.

Bea Mombaers and Peter Ivens have been an inseparable creative duo for years, working on numerous interior projects together. With a distinctive eye for space, materials and atmosphere, they have spent over fifteen years designing interiors that stand out for their quiet, understated luxury. Their work is consistently pure, yet never bland. Refined, but never pretentious. Timeless, yet always contemporary. Just like Hotel Julien.

“I started Hotel Julien over twenty years ago with the idea of creating a small-scale luxury hotel that feels like visiting close friends. I wanted to offer an intimate, welcoming place with a homely atmosphere. As if you’ve discovered a hidden gem. That’s why I only wanted to entrust this transformation to someone whose style closely matches mine, and whom I could truly trust. I’ve known Bea for a long time – I’m a big fan of her understated luxury. And I’ve come to know Peter as someone with a rare gift for reading spaces and creating atmosphere. I couldn’t have wished for a better duo.” ​said Mouche Van Hool, owner of Hotel Julien.

Despite their impressive and diverse portfolio – including residential projects both in Belgium and abroad, as well as a bed & breakfast – Hotel Julien marks the first hotel project for Bea Mombaers and Peter Ivens.

In close collaboration with Mouche Van Hool, they reimagined all the spaces without altering the hotel’s original layout or flow, thereby preserving its historical charm. A key aspect of their approach was the design and creation of custom-made furniture for the reception, lounge, bar, and breakfast area, where guests can now enjoy an à la carte breakfast featuring refined dishes. The warm, inviting atmosphere of the hotel has been further enhanced through the use of solid, timeworn materials that convey a sense of authenticity and make guests feel at home. The collaboration with PS Lab on lighting resulted in atmospheric solutions that highlight the architectural features of the building.

“This place has so much soul and charm. It was an honour to work on this project and to contribute to the rich history of Hotel Julien. For us, creating the right atmosphere was essential. We wanted to strike a balance between a sense of coming home and a space that continues to inspire. I believe we’ve succeeded – and created something truly special.” said Peter Ivens and Bea Mombaers.

Hotel Julien continues to offer its guests an unparalleled level of service. Though intimate in scale, the hotel boasts a range of assets: the bar serves as a vibrant meeting point where hotel guests and Antwerp locals come together over a good glass of wine or a cocktail; the private wellness area offers a serene oasis in the heart of the city – with the option to book a relaxing massage; and a meeting room is available for private hire. The rooftop terrace, with its unique view of Antwerp’s cathedral, remains one of the hotel’s highlights. Hotel Julien is also available for bespoke events and can even be fully privatized.

The renewed Hotel Julien will welcome guests starting the weekend of 26 April 2025. With this renovation, the hoteel marks an important step in its evolution – without losing the unique identity and charm that have made it a beloved destination for over two decades.

The article Hotel Julien in Antwerp renovated its interior in collaboration with Bea Mombaers and Peter Ivens first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.