Interior design and styling

In the rich history of Dutch architecture, there are names that stand for craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a deep respect for their surroundings. P.C. van Uchelen is one of those names. As a respected architect based in the idyllic village of Laren, he left a lasting mark on both the landscape and the built environment.

Laren was not just a place of work for my grandfather; it was his home and his source of inspiration. The distinctive atmosphere of the Gooi region—with its stately villas, green avenues, and historic farmhouses—formed an essential foundation for his work. He understood better than anyone that a building should not merely stand in its environment, but become part of it.

His designs are defined by a clear signature, in which the style of the 1930s and 1940s remains visible to this day. He specialized in designing country houses and bungalows with a romantic character. His great love for France and Italy was also clearly reflected in his style and sense of atmosphere.

When I think of him, I still picture his discipline, ambition, and precision. In my mind, I see him sitting at his drafting table in his home studio—the place that meant everything to him. It was there, ultimately, that he passed away, in the space where his passion and craftsmanship came together.

My foundation

Architecture has been part of my life from an early age. As the granddaughter of the renowned architect P.C. van Uchelen, I learned from a young age the importance of lines, light, and material choices.

I still remember the scent of blueprints and my fascination with how my grandfather transformed lines on paper into tangible spaces. From him, I learned to pay close attention to detail and to always consider the relationship between a building and its surroundings. When I enter a home or commercial space, I immediately feel the space and often know instinctively what can be done. It’s simply in my DNA.

Welcome

Welcome to my website. My name is Myrna Brest van Kempen, and I believe that an interior is more than just furniture and colors. It is an emotion, an experience, and a reflection of who you are—or a place where you feel comfortable, can unwind, and truly be yourself.

As an interior designer and stylist, I continue the line of my grandfather, but with a contemporary touch. My grandmother always called him Pierre—a nickname derived from his first names Piet and Cor, combined with his deep love for France and Italy. She simply felt it sounded more elegant, and in many ways, it suited him perfectly.

Design is the art of creating spaces with a soul.

I would be delighted to help you realize your dream interior. With a fresh perspective on styling and a deep respect for architectural foundations, I create spaces that are not only beautiful and warm, but also function perfectly.

My approach

• Vision: I look beyond today’s trends and aim for timeless designs that will still feel beautiful ten years from now.
• Atmosphere & balance: Every interior requires a balance between functionality and aesthetics.
• Detail: From lighting plans to fabric textures, I believe true strength lies in the details.

Curious about what I can do for your home or business space?