- Interior
Atelier Mestdagh is a studio that not only creates stained-glass art, but also keeps alive a rich history of craft and skill. More than 70 years ago, Albert Mestdagh laid the foundations for this unique atelier, having been trained by the renowned neo-Gothic glazier Hendrik Coppejans. What began as a personal passion has now become, three generations later, a leading studio, known for its exceptional stained-glass windows and preservation of craft traditions.
The connection to the art movement of yesteryear is evident in Atelier Mestdagh's stunning achievements, but the studio is anything but static. It has evolved over the years, constantly modernising with cutting-edge techniques that breathe new life into the art form. This is evident not only in the countless stained-glass windows they create, but also in their contributions to restorations, repurposing projects, and lighting design. Whether the projects are small or large, the vision and craftsmanship always remain the same: each work is an artistic masterpiece in which history and innovation go hand in hand.
Each window is a visual statement that exudes the power of traditional stained-glass technique
What makes their work so special is not only the beautiful aesthetics of their windows, but also the craftsmanship and passion that goes into them. The craftsmanship the studio possesses is passed on from generation to generation. Albert Mestdagh set the tone, his son Luc further expanded the atelier and his daughter Katrien, who joined the company in 2004, gave the atelier a scientific foundation. Katrien obtained the ‘Master in Stained Glass Conservation and Heritage Management’ from the University of York in 2015, which gave the studio access to international network of glass specialists and scientific research. By combining this knowledge with their solid craftsmanship, the studio remains able to create and restore stained-glass windows that are both authentic and modern.
Today, Atelier Mestdagh is an inspiring place where past and future are intertwined.Each window they create is a work of art in itself, a visual statement that exudes the power of the traditional stained-glass technique, while fitting seamlessly into contemporary interior designs.The family and their passionate team continue to innovate the art form without compromising on the quality or authenticity that makes them so special. Atelier Mestdagh inspires not only through its work, but also through the passion and dedication they put into each project.In their hands, the ancient art of stained glass lives on, ready for the future. Curious about the full book ‘Belgian Craftmanship I’? It is available via our webshop.
Portrait: Katrien Mestdagh
Images by WIT photographie & videographie, unless stated otherwise
Atelier images: making of by Rays of Light, design by Lau Ten Zeldam for Homo Faber 2022
Image 6 by Laurent & Luc Viatour, Hotel Van Eetvelde
Images 2, 3 and 9: design by Ingrid Meyvaert
Text by Elke Aerts