Intro
In Weekend Knack Magazine (January 7, 2026), an in-depth interior feature explored the architectural legacy of Léon Stynen and the restoration of the iconic Kursaal of Ostend. The article highlights how Stynen’s vision extended far beyond architecture alone — encompassing furniture, lighting, materials and textiles. Among the rediscovered designs is the original carpet concept, reissued today in collaboration with Ashtari Carpets.
Editorial overview
Belgian architect Léon Stynen (1899–1990) conceived the Kursaal of Ostend as a total work of art. Every element of the building — from monumental spaces to the smallest details — was carefully designed to create harmony, clarity and human comfort.
Recent restoration works uncovered original drawings and archival materials, leading to the re-edition of several of Stynen’s designs. These reissues honour the architect’s modernist philosophy while translating it into contemporary interiors with timeless elegance.
Ashtari Carpets & the Kursaal carpet
The carpet designed by Léon Stynen formed an essential part of the Kursaal’s interior identity. Its linear rhythm and architectural structure reflect Stynen’s deep appreciation for balance, proportion and material honesty.
Ashtari Carpets conducted extensive historical research into the original design, colours and construction. Alongside the iconic green version created for the Kursaal, new contemporary colour variations were developed — always remaining faithful to the architect’s original intent. See the collection
The result is a carpet that bridges past and present: rooted in Belgian modernist heritage, yet perfectly suited to today’s architectural interiors.
Stynen’s work demonstrates how architecture, craftsmanship and human experience can merge into one coherent vision. His carpets are not decorative elements, but fundamental architectural components.
Closing
Reissuing Léon Stynen’s carpet design is more than an act of preservation. It is a way of bringing architectural heritage into modern living spaces — with respect, precision and contemporary relevance.
Source: Weekend Knack, “The Legacy of Léon Stynen – In a Straight Line”, January 7, 2026.
📖 Read the full article via Weekend Knack.
The Weekend Knack article is based on an in-depth interview with Els Degryse, heritage conservator and long-time staff member of the Kursaal of Ostend. Having worked at the Kursaal for over two decades, Degryse knows the building intimately and has extensively studied Léon Stynen’s work and archives.
Through her research, she uncovered how deeply Stynen was involved in every aspect of the building — from architecture and furniture to lighting, colours and textiles. Her insights shed light on Stynen’s humanist approach to design, in which functionality, materiality and the experience of space were always central.
