Bart Appeltans: Overcoming the Seven Year Itch in a 19-Year Relationship

In a candid reflection on the complexities of long-term partnership, interior architect Bart Appeltans recently opened up about the challenges of maintaining a connection over nearly two decades. Speaking on the MNM radio program ‘Bloot,’ the 43-year-old designer addressed the concept of the “seven year itch,” offering a transparent look at his own 19-year relationship with his partner, Dennis.

Appeltans, widely recognized for his work on the program ‘Huis gemaakt,’ used the platform to discuss the natural ebbs and flows of romantic commitment. During the conversation with hosts Dorianne Aussems and Lotte Vanwezemael, he admitted that even the most stable foundations can face periods of disconnection. “In 19 jaar relatie hebben we elkaar ook even uit het oog verloren” (In a 19-year relationship, we also lost sight of each other for a while), he shared, highlighting that distance can occur even within a shared life.

The discussion serves as a reminder that longevity in a relationship does not exempt a couple from struggle. For Appeltans, the key to navigating these periods of drift is an unwavering commitment to dialogue. He emphasized that while it is common to feel a sense of loss or disconnect in a long-term partnership, the solution lies in persistent communication, noting that partners must continue to talk through their challenges to find their way back to one another.

Navigating the “Seven Year Itch” in a Two-Decade Partnership

The “seven year itch” is a popular cultural term describing a perceived dip in relationship satisfaction that occurs around the seventh year of a marriage or partnership. However, Appeltans’ experience suggests that these hurdles can reappear or evolve long after the seven-year mark. Having spent 19 years with Dennis, Appeltans provided a nuanced perspective on how couples evolve over time.

During his appearance on ‘Bloot’ on April 3, 2026, the interior architect reflected on the reality that partners can “lose” each other emotionally. He pointed out that maintaining a bond requires active effort and the willingness to address the “teer punt” (tender point) of their lives, such as the fact that he and Dennis do not have children according to reports from Het Laatste Nieuws.

By speaking openly about these frictions, Appeltans moves the conversation away from the idealized version of long-term love and toward a more pragmatic understanding of partnership. His insistence on the necessity of talking through conflicts suggests that the “itch” is not a sign of failure, but rather a signal that the relationship requires a new level of communication and attention.

A Public Life Built on Authenticity

Beyond his personal reflections on love, Bart Appeltans has cultivated a public persona defined by versatility and openness. Based in Herk-de-Stad, the interior architect has expanded his reach from design to television and radio. His work on ‘Huis gemaakt’ has established him as a trusted voice in home transformation, but his willingness to step into the spotlight in other capacities shows a desire to connect with a broader audience.

This versatility was evident in his recent participation in the new season of #LikeMe. In a move that blends his professional identity with a bit of performance, Appeltans revealed on Radio 2’s ‘Goeiemorgen Morgen!’ that he would be playing a version of himself in the show, jokingly questioning whether he would also be required to sing.

His public presence has even made him a subject of lighthearted imitation. In October 2024, comedian Guga Baúl performed an imitation of Appeltans during an episode of ‘De slimste mens,’ an experience the architect described as “surprising” as documented by Het Belang van Limburg. This ability to handle public scrutiny and humor with grace mirrors the openness he brings to his discussions about his private life.

The Foundation of Family Support

The transparency Appeltans exhibits today is rooted in a history of familial support. In an appearance on ‘Viva La Vida,’ he shared the story of his coming out, a pivotal moment that occurred when he was 19 years old. He recalled telling his mother that he was attracted to men, a revelation that was met with immediate support and relief.

His mother not only provided a safe space for him to be himself but also took the initiative to inform the rest of the family, including his father. This occurred while Bart was on a study trip, ensuring that the family was aware and supportive of his identity. Appeltans has frequently described his mother as a “steunpilaar” (pillar of support), noting that her acceptance allowed him to live authentically from a young age according to HLN.

This early experience of acceptance likely informs his current approach to relationship challenges. The security provided by his family’s support created a foundation of trust that allows him to be honest about both the triumphs and the struggles of his 19-year partnership with Dennis.

Key Takeaways on Relationship Longevity

• Communication is Essential: Appeltans emphasizes that talking through periods of disconnection is the only way to resolve them.
• Expect Ebb and Flow: Even relationships spanning nearly two decades experience phases where partners “lose sight” of one another.
• Authenticity Matters: Openness about personal struggles and identity—from coming out to discussing relationship rifts—builds stronger connections.
• Support Systems: Strong familial support, such as that provided by Appeltans’ mother, plays a critical role in an individual’s ability to live and love authentically.

As Bart Appeltans continues to balance his career in interior architecture with his various media appearances, his willingness to share the “unpolished” side of a long-term relationship provides a valuable perspective for many. By acknowledging that love is not a static state but a continuous process of reconnection, he offers a realistic roadmap for others navigating the complexities of a lifelong partnership.

Notice currently no further scheduled public appearances or official updates regarding Appeltans’ upcoming projects beyond his participation in #LikeMe.

Do you believe communication is the ultimate cure for the “seven year itch,” or are some disconnects inevitable in long-term relationships? Share your thoughts in the comments below.