Nortstudio was founded by Jef De Brabander and Kathleen Opdenacker in 2016. Our studio and workshop is based in Antwerp.

After working on our individual projects, we decided to team up and start working as a couple together. We immediately experienced the advantages of working as a couple. Complete trust, understanding each other and never blaming one another, made it right from the start.

We design and create together. During this process we bring together our own vision and opinion. Kathleen’s approach is rooted in graphic design, an eye for detail and a broad interest in materials. Jef’s approach is rooted in industrial engineering, profound knowledge of techniques and various craftsman's skills. The interaction that takes place between us plays an important role leading up to the outcome of a final product.

Having 4 kids has made it crucial for us to search the right work-life balance. It’s a challenge, but our kids also guarantee us  to sometimes take a break when needed and to just enjoy.

Together we live and work in the North of Antwerp. This multicultural neighborhood is full of contrasts of all sorts. Finding harmony throughout an enormous variety is a daily challenge. Putting inspiration from our environment, the name of our studio is diverted from the word 'North'.