The Rooms Art Fair offers a playful and refreshing alternative to traditional art fairs. Patrick Mestdagh, a prominent art dealer, aims to reinvent the art fair experience by drawing inspiration from successful events in cities like New York (Gramercy), Brussels (White Hotel), and Bangkok (Hotel Art Fair). Together with gallery owner Sébastien Janssen (Sorry We’re Closed), he is set to launch a brand-new art and antiques fair in Brussels.
This unique event, simply called The Rooms Art Fair, will take over several rooms at The Mix Brussels, a 4-star hotel and club opening its doors from May 22–25, 2025 at the former headquarters of Royale Belge in Watermaal-Bosvoorde.
An Artistic Journey Built on Friendship
At its heart, The Rooms is a celebration of the friendship between two art dealers—Patrick Mestdagh, an expert in ethnic and non-European art, and Sébastien Janssen, who specializes in contemporary art. Together, they envisioned an art fair by galleries, for galleries. The goal was to create a fair that deviates from the traditional models of art and antique exhibitions and offers an intimate, engaging experience for both art lovers and collectors.
Rather than the usual fair format, The Rooms offers a refreshing and personal approach. With an innovative layout and a unique location, the event takes place in The Mix Brussels—an icon of 1960s modernism, surrounded by greenery, and known for its forward-thinking design. It’s a space that perfectly embodies the youthful, creative energy that the fair hopes to showcase.
A One-of-a-Kind Experience
The Rooms Art Fair will host over 30 contemporary art galleries and Belgian and international art and antique dealers, who will occupy an entire wing of the hotel. These dealers and galleries will retain the intimate, original character of their rooms, allowing visitors to experience art in a more personal and immersive setting. By carefully curating each space to match the room’s unique atmosphere, The Rooms ensures that each interaction with art feels intimate and special.
This unconventional format—where each dealer takes over a hotel room—creates a fresh and memorable experience. It offers an opportunity to explore art in an environment that prioritizes quality over quantity, and accessibility over formality. Visitors will engage with art in a more intimate setting, creating meaningful connections with the works on display.
An Immersive Art Experience
In addition to the art galleries, The Rooms will feature a sculpture exhibition and a curated space designed by renowned designer Lionel Jadot (Zaventem Ateliers). Jadot, who also designed the interiors of The Mix Brussels, will select and showcase objects from the participating galleries, blending design with art in a unique and innovative way.
Engaging Discussions and Thought-Provoking Dialogues
As the public increasingly seeks relevant knowledge and insights, The Rooms Art Fair will also offer a series of conferences and roundtable discussions in collaboration with Puilaetco, a private wealth management bank located in the former Royale Belge. Topics will cover a wide range of captivating subjects, including patronage, inheritance transfer, the fight against money laundering, jewelry for artists, the dialogue between art dealers and collectors, art leasing, insurance, and more.
A Mood Room to Remember
One standout initiative is the Mood Room. In this space, several brands—Aperol, the barber Bayer & Bayer, chocolatier Pierre Marcolini, and the art publisher Taschen—will come together to create a warm, festive atmosphere. This collaboration offers a lively, relaxed space for socializing and enjoying the fair in an enjoyable and welcoming environment.
A Future-Focused Event for Art Enthusiasts
With its mix of accessibility, dialogue, and an inviting atmosphere, The Rooms Art Fair is poised to become a must-attend event for art lovers and collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time visitor, the fair promises a fresh, innovative approach to experiencing art in a way that celebrates creativity and connection.
Don’t miss out on this exciting new chapter in the world of art fairs. Save the dates for May 22–25, 2025, and be part of The Rooms Art Fair—a new vision for art exhibitions.
