How a premium outdoor-furniture brand's logo inspired a spectacular architectural build.
01/04/2025
The Glasshouse, inspired by the classic greenhouse design, showcases Royal Botania's collection in all weather while offering luxurious outdoor living experiences
'Nature always wins,' said Royal Botania founder and designer Kris Van Puyvelde at the launch of The Glasshouse, the luxury outdoor furniture brand's new landmark showroom – a dazzling piece of design on the main road in Wommelgem, Belgium. 'This building is a testimony to that.' Van Puyvelde pointed to the key architectural motif of the new space as a literal interpretation of the motto: the rooftop terrace is designed to look as if The Glasshouse has been broken, the elements forcing their way through. Our lives are defined by artful attempts to contain nature through engineering and design, but the reality is that the elements and the environment will always supersede. Which is as it should be. That's where the beauty is.
When vision takes root
Conceived as a place to make a simple and dramatic statement about Royal Botania's design philosophy, The Glasshouse reflects the brand's current place in the world right now. Everything is on view in a building inspired by the classic greenhouse model, a concept that goes back to Roman times – nurturing what you need, working with whatever weather you have. 'The Glasshouse is more than a showroom,' explains Van Puyvelde. 'It is a statement of our vision, where design, sustainability and innovation merge in harmony with nature. Just as a greenhouse fosters growth, this space nurtures creativity and inspires a new way of experiencing luxury outdoor living.'
'Just as a greenhouse fosters growth, this space nurtures creativity and inspires a new way of experiencing luxury outdoor living'
The Glasshouse highlights the interplay of nature and design in the 21st century, refracting it through the unique lens of Royal Botania and its belief in sustainability. It's the perfect way to show outdoor furniture, indoors. It is 90% glass, with a 25% integration of solar cells, generating a peak output of 90kW. The specialised glass reflects 77% of infrared radiation, significantly reducing heat load, while high-efficiency heat pumps and energy buffering in water tanks ensure the building remains energy-neutral for most of the year. The Glasshouse is as green a piece of architecture as you'll find in Europe.
The launch event highlighted Royal Botania's luxury status with performances, product presentations, like the Anamon umbrella, and a Michelin-starred chef, creating a special menu for guests
Bright ideas in full bloom
Translating the Royal Botania crown logo through the angular junctions of its façade and roof, the 2,500 square metre building is a masterful structure. It is playful and distinctly Belgian in its approach to design. Here is a place to experience what the brand creates in a singular style. The launch further reinforced Royal Botania's status as a luxury brand with a sense of place and culture. Chef Wout Bru, who trained at Ter Groene Poorte in Bruges, has received two Michelin stars, and currently oversees the menu at the world-acclaimed Le Sanglier des Ardennes in the Belgian Ardennes, created a special menu for guests.
