Design atelier townhouse
High ceilings and curated contemporary art give this Het Zuid corner townhouse the feel of an active design studio.
What it’s good at
Notable
Custom furnishings by Contekst, bespoke ceramic tableware, and curated contemporary art fill high-ceilinged corner rooms.
Listed
An all-day ground floor foodbar and sidewalk terrace serving local Caffenation coffee to neighborhood regulars.
Listed
Set in Het Zuid facing the KMSKA museum, surrounded by art galleries, fashion boutiques, and cafes.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and Wallpaper*.
Hotel Pilar, an artsy boutique proper with a design shop worth checking out even if you’re not checking in.
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Het Zuid surrounds the property with independent art galleries and fashion boutiques, directly facing the grand facade of the KMSKA.
The rooms
Light-filled rooms feature custom furnishings, vibrant owner-designed textiles, and expansive views across the square toward the museum.
Restaurant
Pilar Foodbar
Arched windows look out on the square from banquette tables serving seasonal menus alongside local Caffenation coffee.
The result is a series of light-filled, high-ceilinged rooms outfitted with bespoke artwork, design objects and colourful bedspreads and cushions – the latter created by the owners.
At the table
The concrete bar pours draft beers and cocktails beside a curated selection of wines.
How it began

Interior architect Sam Peeters and Christophe Ysewyn transformed the historic townhouse, allowing guests to purchase furnishings right off the walls.
Good to know
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Hotel Pilar
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.