Pousada do Freixo, Oporto

Giving historical buildings and architectural landmarks a new life and meaning is a big responsibility, for any architect and interior designer. With a creative weight, heavier than the one felt when filling a blank canvas or empty space, re-designing an important edifice requires tremendous study time and thought, in order to understand the space better than anyone else, and transform it without losing its best traits.

Often, there is no better way in maintaining a building or space’s character, than by creating a  juxtaposition of classic and modern, retro and futuristic, combining both past and present design elements and form, in order to create a new state of being. Above are 3 examples which achieve just that, a beautiful blend of elements and character, which add new life and personality to spaces which continue to be perceived as monumental. Some distinguishing elements include the use of marble, brass, velvet (seen in the Denver Union Station and Les Bains hotel), and other dignified materials such as antique textiles and recovered antique floorboards (seen in the Pousada do Freixo, home to several Boca do Lobo pieces).

These values are also maintained at the very core of Boca do Lobo‘s identity. A voyage from through the past into the future, where timeless design elements and traditional techniques, are given a new meaning and purpose.