Exquisite transformation unveiled: La Reserve, the prestigious haven on Elisabethlaan, Knokke-Heist, embraces a magnificent rebirth

It’s finally definite, La Réserve is throwing open its doors to invite guests to experience contemporary opulence in the heart of Knokke-Heist. On 17 July, Belgium’s finest seaside resort town will welcome the launch of the refreshed La Réserve.

The landmark venue has been a Knokke-Heist staple since its creation in 1949, as well as the host to a slew of distinguished guests, from Hollywood stars, to politicians, royalty, and leading creatives and intellectuals. René Magritte, Frank Sinatra, Marlène Dietrich, Brigitte Bardot, Charles Aznavour, Jacques Brel, Keith Haring, David Beckham, Paris Hilton and many others saw the hotel as a base for relaxation and luxury. Even Jean-Claude Van Damme, a regular hotel guest, even attended one of the recent dry-runs at the restaurant, La Rigue.

The new design, following the venue’s acquisition in 2022 by Belgian investors Bart Versluys and Marc Coucke, celebrates the famed hospitality venue’s heritage, while layering 21st century style. The public interiors have been reimagined by Glenn Sestig Architects and his signature take on subtle luxury, bringing together quality materials and a minimalist approach. Bart Versluys and his teams directed the entire coordination and renovation in a record time of only six months. At times, 350 steelworkers worked day and night at a scorching pace to meet the deadline.

The impressive lobby now features the grandeur befitting its legacy. It has been completely renovated to meet the standards of present and future. The refreshed space offers a modern interpretation of 1930s chic, clad in eucalyptus wood, onyx marble and brass detailing, and carefully composed furniture arrangements. This central, grand hall acts as reception, lounge and main public ‘plaza’ for the hotel. It flows effortlessly into a range of connected spaces, hosting public amenities. They include the seductive bar; the store, stocking the finest labels; the multifunctional space La Réserve Signature Room, available for anything from exhibitions to brand activations; La Rigue Restaurant powered by Michelin-starred chef Peter Goossens; the Private Saloons for private events or dining; and the Silver Lake Rooms halls, suitable for large scale events, from conferences to galas. 

The hotel’s finely tuned indoor spaces feature a high-spec mix of both tailor made items and sourced pieces in combinations with designs from Jean-Michel Frank and Christian Liaigre. Bespoke surfaces, such as a series of handmade, sculptural wall reliefs that mimic beachside sand formations, and made-to-order woven metal panels that act as space dividers, wrap everything in an atmosphere of high spatial sophistication. 

These indoor public areas are matched by outdoor terraces, sprawling across the estate and overlooking Knokke-Heist’s Silver Lake and its famous Waving Crabs ‘floating’ artwork by renowned Belgian sculptor Panamarenko. 

More is yet to come, with a sunbathing lake pontoon (on request) and a fully reimagined wellness and spa section by Glenn Sestig Architects, are currently in the works. These facilities, which will include rooftop swimming pool (55 sq m), sauna, hammam, and treatment cabins are currently not in operation.

La Réserve’s elegant, design-led accommodation includes its striking 79 rooms, 29 junior suites, an executive and a presidential suite, as well as the one-of-a-kind, 270 sq m Royal Penthouse, which crowns the hotel. All 111 rooms and suites received a refreshing makeover by Bart Versluys and his teams and are characterized by natural materials and colours and serene compositions. They reflect the cosy seaside feeling in combination with luxury, typically reserved for the finest architectural resort hotels.

Gentle glamour and refinement underline the new La Réserve; where lavish surrounds meet supreme service, in a curated experience that ensures guests enjoy Knokke-Heist’s stylish seaside life all year round.  

The entire team of La Réserve is therefore looking forward to welcome guests from 17 July. For additional information, please connect with Marc Coucke, Bart Versluys or Mathieu Maertens at info@la-reserve.be