The Interior, Design & Architecture (ID&A) unit at Thomas More University College in Mechelen is breathing new life into Mechelen's centuries-old furniture tradition by continuing it in a contemporary way in its respective courses: innovative prototyping is carried out in the professional bachelor's program in interior design in daytime education (IV) and in open higher education (OHO), as well as in the advanced program in furniture design (VOMO).

These three designs from the new harvest of 2025 together form a balanced ensemble:

Larissa Hoeckman – OHO UNTITLED This outdoor table -untitled- is a reflection of transformation. A charred mooring post, heavy and robust, rests on slender stainless steel beams. In the middle, a refined table contrasts – only 2 mm thick and 20 cm in diameter. The design transforms from solid and powerful to light and subtle, a perfect balance between roughness and elegance. An invitation to pause, connect, and reflect – on the beauty of transformation itself.

Flor Heyrman – IV TRIANGLE Triangle is a rack made from a single folded steel plate measuring 3mm by 1m. Three interlocking triangular surfaces provide strength and absorb each other's forces. The furniture can be rotated and adapted in its configuration. Thanks to its clever design, there is no residual material and no additional fastenings are required, making it fully recyclable and sustainable.

Emile Bongaerts – VOMO STERK ÈS EIK Sterk ès eik is a stool constructed from rectangular tubes of oak veneer. Despite the thinness of the wood, even a single tube is strong enough to support a person, and together they are even stronger.