KMSKA, Quares and Trevi: neighbours in architecture and the art of living

While the KMSKA is internationally renowned as a leading museum, it is also the beating heart of one of Antwerp’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Some even consider the museum square to be their very own front garden. Today, we highlight a unique partnership: Quares Investment and Trevi x KMSKA. Two major players in the real estate sector have joined forces, united by a shared appreciation for Antwerp’s Zuid district.

We spoke with Romeo Mercken, CEO of Quares Investment, Floris Simoens, Head of Trevi Antwerp (formerly Quares Immo), and founding partners Herman Du Bois and Freddy Hoorens about their shared values, their passion for quality and culture, and what it means to be 'good neighbours'.

Anyone crossing Leopold de Waelplaats cannot fail to notice that the offices of Quares Investment and Trevi are located directly opposite the museum’s imposing façade. For the closely connected teams of both companies, the museum has become a daily source of inspiration.

“Quares has been firmly rooted in this neighbourhood for more than a decade,” says Romeo Mercken. “For years, we watched the renovation works progress, eagerly awaiting the reopening. Partnering with the KMSKA felt like a natural step for us, and extending that partnership three years later felt just as obvious. This is one of the warmest and most welcoming neighbourhoods in Antwerp, and the KMSKA is truly its beating heart.”

A powerful synergy

This partnership has become even more meaningful through the collaboration between Quares and Trevi. Following the acquisition of Quares’ brokerage and property management activities by the Trevi Group, both parties decided to continue supporting the museum together.

“It was only natural for Trevi to continue this partnership after the acquisition of Quares Immo,” says Floris Simoens. “Our collaboration with the museum allows us to engage with investors, clients and stakeholders in a different way. We can introduce them to art through unique experiences, whether that is a guided tour of an exhibition or an event in one of the museum’s remarkable spaces.”

“Many museum visitors share the same interests as our clients. They appreciate quality and have a passion for architecture, culture and design. The standards embodied by the KMSKA align perfectly with our own values. In 2026, Quares Immo will officially become Trevi, but the team, the familiar faces and our strong local presence in Antwerp will remain exactly the same, as will our partnership with the KMSKA.”

The building as a masterpiece

For real estate professionals, the museum’s architecture is a work of art in itself. “The guided tour we received as neighbours, before a single artwork had been installed, left a lasting impression,” recalls Romeo Mercken. “The way the historic galleries blend seamlessly with the new white volumes is extraordinary. I still stand by my opinion: for me, the building itself is one of the finest masterpieces in the collection.” The museum grounds also play an important role in daily life for both companies.

“The museum square is practically our front garden,” laughs Floris Simoens. “We often take clients for a walk there or spend a moment relaxing between meetings. The museum has become an extension of our office. And when it comes to a quality business lunch, we can always count on Madonna (the restaurant housed within the museum – Ed.). We sometimes jokingly refer to it as our company canteen because we’re there so often.”

Networking through art

Within the partnership, Club Fouquet has become a fixture, especially for founding partner Herman Du Bois. A passionate art lover, he rarely misses an event. “The evenings are always welcoming and accessible, with refreshing themes and impeccable organisation,” he says. “My wife and I always enjoy the warm hospitality and the fascinating people we meet there.”

Whether hosting an exclusive evening for shareholders or offering museum tickets to clients, the objective remains the same. “We want to contribute to culture in our own city,” explains Floris Simoens. “Not out of pure self-interest, but because we genuinely care about the neighbourhood and the city in which we work every day.”

Favourite artwork

When asked about his favourite artwork, Herman Du Bois does not hesitate. “The colour tunnel by Boy & Erik Stappaerts,” he says. “It continues to capture my imagination every time I see it.”