Designer and artist Christl Dekimpe is launching a new furniture line next year. The Dadizele native took over her parents' company thirteen years ago. "I've since found the perfect balance between art and design," says Christl, who also recently donated and designed the trophy for the winner of the Dutch Culture Prize.
The Dekimpe family writes a compelling entrepreneurial story along Industrielaan in Dadizele. Albert and Erna Dekimpe founded a furniture store there 57 years ago, specializing in Italian furniture. Thirteen years ago, their daughter Christl, who had already helped out, followed in their footsteps.
Own furniture line
"I've long dreamed of having my own furniture line, but it's not going to happen without a few struggles. Little by little, I've filled the showroom with my own models. Tables, chairs, cabinets, and sofas. I design almost everything you could find in a living room." This summer, Christl came up with the idea of launching a new furniture line. All the sketches have already been drawn. "The plan is to present the furniture line next year."
Christl Dekimpe is much more than just a designer, however. You can discover her artwork in the gallery along the front of her business. Art also hangs in the bar, which she designed between the gallery and the furniture showroom. "That artistic streak has always been there. I was fortunate enough to help out in my parents' business. That's where I learned everything about materials." Christl specializes in useful art, art with a purpose. From lighting to seating elements, or a personalized wine box, like the one the winner of the recent Moorslede Culture Prize received. "Being both a designer and an artist makes it so enjoyable. I feel like the two are perfectly balanced right now." Christl enjoys creating personalized projects. "I really adapt to the client, and I consider that one of my strengths. If you're looking for a classic table, you can definitely get it here. Everyone has their own taste, and I respect that."
Name recognition
In recent weeks, Christl's designs and artworks have been on display at various fairs. For example, the Dadizeelse exhibit was on the Belgian Design Island at the Furniture Fair in Brussels. Numerous Christl artworks were on display at the Wonder Festival in Kortrijk. "Year after year, I try to increase my name recognition. And that seems to be working very well. You can achieve a lot if you keep at it." Christl has already completed projects abroad. She is therefore optimistic about the future. "It's now up to me to continue evolving as a designer and artist."