Stepping Back in Time: Visiting Europe with the Leaders of Design Council

Traveling to Europe with the Leaders of Design Council has been one of the highlights of 2022 so far. I recently attended my second conference in Bruges, beginning with the group’s pre-trip to Amsterdam. We arrived at the height of tulip season, so among the best activities was visiting Royal FloraHolland - the world’s largest flower auction - and Keukenhof, one of the largest flower gardens. In addition to experiencing a canal tour, we visited Studio Piet Boon as well as the Anne Frank house. Finally, visiting homes along the canal was fascinating; these old homes are preserved yet also modernized in interesting ways.

We arrived in Bruges on Saturday, April 9th, and checked into the Dukes’ Palace Hotel. My husband, Joshua, accompanied me on this trip. Our trip through Bruges was like stepping back in time. The entire town is registered as a Unesco World Heritage site. I thoroughly enjoyed experiencing the architecture of Bruges by boat as we toured the canals. The private house tours were unforgettable - seeing how the locals live and work in their homes. I find inspiration in the interior design of each space and know I will carry it into my work as a subtle influence. The plaster workshop and house tour inspired all as well. From classical to contemporary, their work is exquisite and unique.

One of the peak experiences was visiting the grounds, outbuildings, and home of May and Alex Vervoordt in Antwerp. It was quite magical as there is beauty at every turn. Their son, Boris, led the day with easy humor and grace. He is so charming and down-to-earth. You can share the experience by viewing this YouTube video. I recommend watching the videos made by his father, Alex, too.

LEARNING FROM ONE ANOTHER

The conference began on Monday, April 11th with presentations by various LDC members and guest lecturers. As much as I enjoy the exclusive tours of museums, artist studios, and historic sites, I prize the time spent with colleagues and new friends at conference sessions, plus lunches and dinners, culminating in fun end-of-trip dinner dances. It’s fun to see everyone let their hair down.

The image of me at the lectern on Day 3 represents my first opportunity to share with this esteemed membership. I was asked what LDC means to me. What I’ve come to realize is that no matter the level of success any of us have achieved in our careers, we all deal with the same challenges. We benefit from sharing our personal and professional experiences - trials, tribulations, and triumphs. As a community, we are better together. We see one another more as collaborators and colleagues, less as competitors, which strengthens our connection.

A few additional images from the trip below. More to come…