Gunther Mellebeek has a unique passion - he finds and restores old vintage cast iron radiators, which most of the time get to be installed into castles or cosy homes of people who are fond of their classic design.
From buying and salvaging rare Premier radiators dating back to 1905, to creating brand new cast iron radiators based on classic designs, Gunther shows that nothing is impossible.
Asked about how he got to restore the vintage radiators, he tells us: ”It all started 12 years ago when I bought an 1857 house. During its restoration process, I realised it needed two vintage radiators, so I did a great deal of research regarding interior design, architecture and plumbing. Since there weren’t many cast iron radiator suppliers back then, I decided to manufacture the radiators myself.”
More info: classiccomfort.eu
That is how Classic Comfort, his company, was founded - since then, he ”saved” hundreds of old radiators, transforming them into real classical decor objects, maybe as important as art pieces.
Along this journey, he not only salvaged old radiators, but also discovered the unique history of the places - from old listed places to churches and hotels, he came to know more about the particularities of different cities in Europe, the culture of the places he saw and the habits of the people who lived in them, a long time ago.
One example of his findings are a couple of Nationals, designed by the American Radiator Company in the USA and produced in Dôle, France. Gunther find those antiques in an 1918 house in Ukkel, Brussels. He recalls that the house was a forgotten mansion and in a really bad condition - however, it’s beauty was still visible - the fine motifs on the walls and the traditional architecture were marks that endured the growing of time.
And although it is not that easy to find 60 or even 100 years old cast iron radiators or restore them from being rusted and broken-down, he continues to look carefully for them and spend a great deal of time reviving them to be functional.
He also tells us about how his passion for vintage radiators turned into a real business: ”I enjoy restoring antique radiators and imagine how well their interesting inlaid ornaments would complement the suitable interior design. Having been in the client’s position, made me realise how important it is to have someone to guide you through.”
When they are restored, most of these pieces find their way into castles, cosy homes, hotels and even art galleries or public spaces, complimenting their decor and bringing warmth, as well. Working with various clients all over Europe, he was once asked to commission a work for the set of Grace of Monaco movie - bringing back the specific 1960s decor and architecture with the American Rococo cast iron radiators.
Nowadays, Gunther continues to find and restore cast iron radiators or to commission projects for different clients in Europe. You can see more of his work and the available pieces here.
