Art at CasaBlu – Chapter 1 : How it all began
Interview with Florence Swaters
Welcome to the intimate world of CasaBlu, a boutique hotel where every wall, every object, and every space tells a story. In this first series dedicated to the art at CasaBlu, we had the privilege of speaking with Florence Swaters, the current owner, who graciously opened the doors of her exceptional place to share its origins with us.
Florence Swaters
A Family Legacy Turned Collective Heritage
“It was my father’s house,” Florence begins. “We first gathered here as a family; these were their objects. My father was a very, very generous man; he created this house primarily so people would feel good in it. He wanted to welcome everyone like royalty. I grew up with that.”
After her father’s passing, Florence inherited this home, rich with history and memories. “The first thing I thought was, my God, all this is going to disappear.” From this fear, an idea was born: to open the doors of CasaBlu to the public. Florence wanted to share this family treasure so that everyone could experience the warmth and authenticity she was fortunate enough to know.
Preserving the Soul of CasaBlu
Far from the idea of turning CasaBlu into an impersonal hotel, Florence embarked on a renovation project. She wanted every visitor to feel at home, in a comfortable space, but above all, one imbued with a special energy. “I didn’t want an impersonal hotel,” she says simply. Each room in the house was restored with care to maintain its original soul and the soothing vibes it naturally exudes.
A Personal and Living Collection
Over time, Florence has enriched CasaBlu’s spaces with her own collection of objects. “Little by little, I added my own collection, gathered throughout my life. From souks, markets, and by discovering local artists. They are all personal favorites. Personal items and family heirlooms.” Among the exhibited works are the striking photographs of Serge Anton, whose work captures the essence of faces. Roberto Barr’s pieces bring a joyful, sunny depth, while Daniel Viéné’s creations add a unique playful touch.
This collection, eclectic and full of life, is not the result of a decorative whim but a testament to a life rich in encounters and discoveries. Every object, every painting, every sculpture tells a story, inviting reflection and daydreaming. “I wanted visitors to enter a story so they could create their own,” Florence confides. And so, at CasaBlu, every room is unique, filled with memories, and ready to welcome new ones.
Faces – by Photographer Serge Anton
A Place of Art and Life
CasaBlu is not just a house; it’s a place of life, art, and sharing. Thanks to the vision and generosity of Florence Swaters, what could have remained a family legacy has become a collective heritage. Every visitor who steps into CasaBlu enters a story—one of a family, but also their own.
In the upcoming series, we will take you on a journey to discover the artistic treasures of CasaBlu, diving even deeper into this place where every detail has a soul. Stay with us for this unique journey into the heart of art and life at CasaBlu.
