Castel Projects: more than furniture

Some 30 years ago, Gracien Castel took his first steps in the interior design world. Today, with Castel Projects, he is a regular partner for the hospitality sector with high-quality furniture tailored to each project. His daughter Josephine recently joined the team. Together they talk about their passion for interiors and design.

At Castel Projects, quality, service and design are central to the available budget. The West Flanders-based company puts its shoulders to the wheel on personalised projects that exude atmosphere and experience. "I started my career in my parents' garden centre, where an interest in garden furniture led me to the project furniture sector. I learned a lot about the design of outdoor spaces and interiors, which eventually led to my own company: Castel Projects," says founder and business manager Gracien Castel. "We do more than just supply the tables and chairs for a project. Just as well, we sit down with the architect or interior designer to choose the right furniture pieces and materials to go with the mood board. Especially when it comes to a complete makeover of a restaurant or hotel, every piece of the puzzle is important. Besides hospitality projects, we also offer solutions for companies, schools, public authorities and public spaces. No two projects are the same. A copy-paste does not work. You always start from a blank page."

Castel Projects distributes a wide range of designer brands and furniture including tables, chairs, patio and custom-made furniture. You can also come to them for re-upholstery, carpets and interior accessories. "Although we do much more than sell furniture. Actually, we sell interiors," says daughter Josephine Castel. Her previous job at prado reinforced her interest in interiors and design. For six months now, she has been working in the family business, handling communication and project follow-up. "From small spaces to total renovations: we always take a personal approach. We have lots of samples and materials to give customers an idea of how something can be both beautiful and functional. If a creative touch can be added to that, that's great. We bring the technical aspects of a piece of furniture together with its design. That we can bring elements and furniture from different collections together in the process is a strong asset in this fine profession."

Castel Projects works with regular European partners, major brands and private labels from smaller manufacturers. "We stay in Europe with our production and suppliers," says Gracien. "This guarantees continuity of supply, as well as price stability and quality. The latter is not insignificant, as furniture is used intensively in the hospitality sector. In the search for new collections, design and quality take precedence over price."

Those wishing to see a realisation by Castel Projects can visit the restaurant, lobby and meeting rooms of Ghent's YALO hotel, among others. This collaboration perfectly illustrates what the company stands for. "A personal approach for which we called on our extensive collections, the experience of our strong team and a good collaboration with design studio King George architect," says Josephine. "We can deliver timeless designs but dare to do something different and think out of the box. That makes every project unique." 

Even after realisation, Castel Projects remains a point of contact. "We are committed to sustainable and long-term relationships, with our customers and with our partners," Gracien adds. "We have been working with certain suppliers for thirty years. Working together openly is crucial, especially when you provide such a personal service. We are not afraid to raise when we are not completely behind a certain idea. Hospitality and hospitality should radiate experience and we are very happy to do our bit to contribute to that."