Any discussion of Belgian interior design must start with antiques dealer and designer Axel Vervoordt, who operates out of the Kanaal, a complex of restored 19th-century warehouses and grain silos in Antwerp. Despite the fact that he has designed castles for Sting and counts Bill Gates and Henry Kravis among his clients, he says, "I don't like living only with expensive things. I love everyday things, like baskets, a beautiful wood tray, a nice wood candlestick." Add rumpled linen slipcovered furniture in grays, ecrus, ochres to the list. Go to Axel Vervoordt to see more of his work, such as this country house below. To recreate the look, visit Lucca NYC, proponents of a similar vision.

Below: Timeless Interiors; on sale at amazon.com for $47.25: