After many years in the world of design, Brussels-born Thomas Gillon chose a different path two years ago. Under the name ‘On the rocks’, he now works as a framer, providing artists and galleries, as well as private individuals, with the ideal setting for a particular work of art. In his workshop in the heart of Brussels, on Rue des Fabriques, he finds peace.
"As a framer, I've found a perfect balance between the solitude of working in the studio and the social contact of working for customers. In the studio, it's quiet and I enjoy working with my hands, on my own. Contact with other people also gives me energy. I get to discover new artists and new works, and meet people who are just as motivated and passionate about art and culture."
The simplicity of the support makes perfect sense in this beautiful building, a former coffee roastery.
"The space was empty when I moved in, but there were a few machines and bags of coffee left behind. The details are typically Brussels: a granite floor, high walls and a small, welcoming courtyard at the back."
In this workshop, we also find a surprisingly ordinary Kewlox combination, without sliding doors, but with the characteristic wooden rails and metal angles. Thomas explains the choice of this composition:
"I need a lot of horizontal storage for my work, so with this furniture I save a lot of centimetres and all the new unpublished works can be stored there, framed or not."
Thomas was already familiar with the brand and also has a walk-in wardrobe at home.
"The extremely simple design and infinite possibilities are a big plus. The fact that it's Belgian is even nicer. Here, I've chosen a simple design, but the choice of colours is very wide. I also find the MIST range by designer Julien Renault very contemporary."
Thomas Gillon
Founder of On the Rocks Framing, Brussels