Jonojé・Luxury Suites

Jonojé gives Bruges a welcome jolt of contemporary design. Just north of the historic centre, Studio LOHO has transformed a 1912 industrial complex into six large suites, each around 75 square metres. The building began life as a brush factory, later serving as a chicory roastery, meat wholesaler, car workshop and diving shop. Bruges has seen stranger career changes, but not many this stylish.

The old brick structure remains firmly present, while the new interventions make no attempt to imitate it. Most striking is the petrol blue ceramic façade, assembled from cracked clay pieces inspired by dried earth. Inside, Jo Hoeven and Karel Loontiens continue in the same spirit with pigmented plaster, terracotta sinks, stone bed frames and furniture that feels closer to collectible design than standard hotel fit out.

The bathrooms are the real talking point. Huge ceramic shower cocoons and sculptural tubs turn an everyday routine into part of the architecture. Some suites are pale and flooded with daylight, others darker and more theatrical. For a first stay, NI is the safest recommendation, with garden views, bath and shower; SAN is the one to choose if light and openness matter most.

Jonojé deliberately avoids the rituals of a conventional luxury hotel. There is no grand lobby or formal reception desk. Access is independent, breakfast is ordered in advance and brought to the suite, with sourdough, whipped butter, preserves, chia pudding, cheese and fresh juice. The centre of Bruges is easily reached by bicycle, but you stay here for the building itself rather than for canal views.