WORDS Palesa Mohola PHOTOS Manuel Sá

Küster Brizola Arquitetos designed this 200 m² apartment with a family of four in mind, structuring it as a home centred on family life, hosting friends and family, and creating meaningful memories. Here, a chequered pattern spread across the living areas is a defining feature of the apartment, used to organise the social zones and establish its identity.

The ceramic floors were the guiding factor in the selection of materials and finishes throughout the apartment. This also meant that the striking pattern required a careful balance of textures, colours and surfaces – one that would allow it to stand out while working in harmony with other elements. The architects opted for a restrained palette, where white lends a sense of lightness and blue accents introduce a quiet serenity.

The social area sits at the heart of the home, with the grid guiding the architectural layout and its geometry carefully aligned with the custom cabinetry and stone countertops. Since it is a multifunctional area, the shelving unit organises circulation and subtly defines the playroom, game room and living area; to preserve the feel of an open-plan layout, the playroom received a delicate metal-framed partition in place of a solid wall.

The same communal spirit informed the kitchen – a room dedicated to cooking, family gatherings and entertaining, with a Paraná Cromos stone island at its centre.

Shades of green run throughout the kitchen via the Gouache ceramic tiles by Portobello, evoking nature and bringing freshness to the room. These harmonise with the American oak cabinetry found throughout the residence, establishing a continuous material language between rooms – one that brings warmth to the interiors and blends seamlessly with the project’s palette of blue, green and terracotta tones.

To add a personal touch, the furnishings in the game room reflect the family’s appreciation for pieces with historical value, reinforcing the dialogue between memory and contemporary living. Ceramic pieces from the family’s pottery workshop are displayed throughout the home, creating a symbolic connection between past and present while lending a distinctive identity to the interior. A century-old Italian pietra dura table – sourced from Florence and acquired at Cristiano Ross Antique Shop – anchors the room, further deepening the project’s sense of history and emotional resonance. | kusterbrizola.com.br

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WORDS AND PHOTOS Julia Franco

I am Brazilian, and I run a Brazilian design store in Cape Town. Although I left Brazil nearly 20 years ago and have since lived on three continents, some instincts never fade. I remain instinctively drawn to craft , to the human touch in objects and, inevitably, to colour. Distance has given me perspective, but it hasn’t diluted that connection. If anything, it’s clarified it. And the position I now occupy, between Brazil and Africa, sharpened that perspective. In South Africa, too, there is a profound respect for material, for land, for handwork. The dialogue between Brazilian and African craft feels less like import/export, and more like recognition. Both contexts understand scarcity, adaptation, and beauty born from process rather than polish.

So when I flew to São Paulo in February, invited by the Brazilian Association of Utilities and Gift Companies to visit its main fair, I went with curiosity and a long mental shopping list. I’d been before, but this edition felt different: bigger, busier, louder. Hundreds of exhibitors – Brazilian brands and international importers – all gathered in one place, offering a snapshot of what design looks like when industry and creativity share the room. Alongside long-time collaborators of NOSSO, I met a host of new designers and makers.

Some of the most exciting discoveries came from unexpected corners. Cleaning tools, for example – brooms ingeniously designed for pet hair, sponges capable of tackling everything from oil to paint. Even hotel china surprised me: porcelain dishes engineered to maintain the temperature of the food without burning your hands. It was proof that serious design can elevate ordinary objects. Aisle after aisle revealed the most random, inventive and captivating pieces. Walking through the halls, it struck me that Brazilian design mirrors its people– a little messy, theatrical, full of personality. Even the smallest objects seemed to pulse with life. It felt like coming home.

I also noticed an interesting shift: some designers are keeping their collections conceptually local while producing components abroad – in Peru, Turkey or China. It’s a curious but compelling mix, introducing new finishes and materials without losing that Brazilian soul.

Beyond the main fair, I made time to visit smaller, independent studios – the kinds of makers we’re drawn to at NOSSO. In these smaller spaces, work unfolds more slowly and thoughtfully. The visits offered a welcome counterpoint to the grandeur of the exhibition halls, with design revealing itself as a process rather than a product, deeply rooted in material knowledge and in the sheer joy of making.

I was particularly excited to visit an atelier I’d had my eye on for some time: Atelier Da Renata. Renata, a ceramics teacher, started making her own colourful jugs and plates almost as a hobby. Her passion project became something much bigger – so she hired some of her students and today runs a vibrant studio with nine younger artists. Every day at 11am, the kiln is opened and everyone gathers around to see what’s come from the firing, cheering one another’s pieces as they come out. It was genuinely special to witness this ritual; a small daily moment that captures the collaborative spirit of the atelier. Later in the afternoon, at 3pm, they pause again for cake and conversation – an informal for cake and conversation – an informal break dedicated to chatting about studio life. Sadly, I had to miss that, although I suspect it might be just as important to the creative process as the kiln itself.

The trip concluded with a second event, organised by the Brazilian Association of High-End Decor Furniture Industries. Here, ideas that I had seen quietly brewing over the past few years finally emerged, bold and self-assured. It felt like witnessing a creative language that was coming fully into its own.

Comfort, Craft, Materials, Curves, Retro…

I feel the Latino world has been trending, and there’s a special comfort in seeing this world up close. There’s a rhythm, a warmth and a bit of chaos that somehow makes sense. Bad Bunny’s success (yes, I’m a bit obsessed with him right now!) reminds us there’s so much happening in Latin America – music, art, design; an entire world that’s full of personality. With everything else feeling uncertain, it’s grounding to see the beauty in that little mess, that organised chaos, and how it translates into strong colours and organic forms.

Comfort and warmth are in. Everywhere I looked, deep, earthy tones were making interiors feel cosy instead of stiff. They aren’t only used on furniture and details, but on walls and flooring too, making the homes look like a safe space to live in. Fabrics that you want to touch – linen, bouclé, suede, leather – were everywhere, reminders of the idea that a home should be enjoyed and not just looked at.

Handcrafted pieces were presented on a strong setting. They aren’t nostalgic; they are current, confident. Natural materials were a highlight, especially wood mixed with stone or other organic touches. One of my favourite pieces is from a collection that adds natural stone to porcelain, giving an imperfect shape to vases.

I loved seeing materials play off each other: wood, metal, textiles, all working together in balanced ways. Curves are still everywhere, but they are sharper and more precise: it’s structure tempered by softness. Retro elements are also quietly coming back: straw, wicker and outdoor furniture reimagined, giving that familiar feel to new shapes. Upholstered pieces are generous and inviting, quietly waiting for someone to rest on them.

Between Factories and Craft

One of the trip’s biggest takeaways was seeing the industrial and the handmade worlds coexist. On one side, factories are producing with consistency; on the other, small studios are shaping clay, fibres and pigments by hand, with irregularity part of their charm. Rather than competing, these two worlds seem to strengthen each other.

Functional objects are no longer satisfied with efficiency alone. They now aim to improve daily rituals – sleeping, cooking, organising – with a sense of individuality. Even the most practical tools seem to carry a dose of poetry. One cutlery supplier, for example, presented an affordable set with plastic handles that perfectly mimicked leather; the illusion was so convincing you almost couldn’t tell the difference.

Playful, Thoughtful, Human

There was also a strong presence of responsible and thoughtful design – products built to last that are beautiful and comfortable. Authorial design and artistic ceramics are getting more attention in big Brazilian platforms, with an honest connection to materials, usage and time.

But alongside that seriousness, there’s playfulness. Figurative objects – ice buckets shaped like fruit, tables that looked like puzzles, tiny sculptural containers – show that humour and elegance can coexist. Interiors no longer have to be neutral; they’re a reflection of the people who live in them. Colour is a statement. Form tells a story. The tactile and the playful live side by side with confidence, suggesting layered interiors full of intention and character, where every element speaks of time: time devoted to making, time spent composing each layer, time invested in collecting and shaping a space. It felt, instantly, that this young, jovial Brazil is maturing – carrying its history and references with greater depth without losing its spirit.

The Streets in São Paulo

Walking the streets between appointments, I noticed that the city itself feels like a design laboratory. Graffiti, hand-painted signs, street stalls, bold tiles on building facades… all of it feels curated and chaotic at the same time. There’s something comforting about it, actually, because it feels familiar. It’s life in motion: messy, sure – but the chaos has rhythm.

Even small objects can tell a story. A handmade bowl at a fancy restaurant, a brightly coloured chair at the barber, a tiny sculpture hiding in a corner of a shop – they are calling your attention to the moment. It’s as if the makers are saying, “Slow down and look!” And in a world that can feel too fast, the message is comforting.

I also realised that even the shortest trip can change your gaze. I saw familiar colours and textures, but the combinations were new. There’s joy in seeing something traditional, like a straw chair or a clay vase, reinterpreted in a way that feels fresh. That tension between heritage and invention is exactly what makes Brazilian design so alive right now.

Brazilian Design in Transition

Across fairs and studios, the picture is clear: Brazilian design is evolving. It’s rooted in heritage, but open to technology, collaboration and new ways of telling stories. Shape and colour matter – but so does meaning and emotional connection.

For me as the curator at NOSSO, this trip is already shaping what we will bring in next. We don’t chase trends; we listen to makers and the direction design is taking, so we can translate this energy into objects that can live in different contexts while keeping their character intact.

The future looks playful and strong in identity, making even the most practical objects a little surprising. And through it all runs that Latino heartbeat: colourful, imperfect, joyful, reassuring. It’s a reminder that chaos and beauty are not opposites – sometimes, they’re the same thing. | nosso.co.za

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WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied

Brazil is known for samba, caipirinhas and football, but its thriving contemporary art, design and architecture scene makes it a creative destination worth adding to your bucket list.

The country holds a special place in my heart. I spent a lot of time in Rio de Janeiro as a child, and one of my fondest memories is walking along Copacabana with my father, mesmerised by the black-and-white tiles underfoot as we made our way to the beach. I was fascinated by those tiles then and, 30 years later, nothing has changed. Brazilian surface design is among the best in the world, and there’s no better place to discover the latest styles than Expo Revestir.

For those who are unfamiliar, Expo Revestir is the largest trade fair for tiles, surfaces and sanitary ware in South America. Held annually in São Paulo, the event showcases the latest trends and eco-conscious innovations from leading Brazilian brands.

While I didn’t jet off to this year’s expo, I paid close attention to the surfaces unveiled. Throughout the five-day event, I noticed one major recurring theme: a return to nature. From earthy textures and colours to patterns and materiality, here are five standout launches that placed nature front and centre.

Perhaps the best example of this natural focus came from Studio Morandin. The brand’s new Pau a Pique line, which won the ‘Best Ceramic Design Brazil’ award at the show, captures the essence of the natural world with its loamy tile design. The idea for Pau a Pique came to director Antônio Carlos Carvalho as he walked through the company’s yard. Seeing cracked clay on the ground, he sought to reproduce its nuanced texture.

Similarly, at Manufatti Revestimentos, the Cariri and Laguna ceramics – developed in collaboration with São Paulo-based architectural designer Marilia Pellegrini – draw their inspiration from Brazil’s extreme landscapes. ‘Cariri’ evokes the arid landscape of Brazil’s north-east, while ‘Laguna’, a city in Santa Catarina, recalls the serene coastal atmosphere of the south.

Nina Martinelli, a brand known for its handcrafted ceramic surfaces, cobogós and material-driven aesthetics, debuted its Brasiliano tile. Part of the CICLOS Collection, the tile is characterised by its uneven, hand-hewn, organic texture. Here, natural clay takes on a living texture, striking a balance between raw and refined.

At LEPRI Ceramiche, eco-based materials and sustainability took centre stage. The brand highlighted its Bio Colore tile range, made in limited batches with a special biological glaze, created by LepriLab using wood-fired kiln ash and recycled glass. There are three soft hues in LEPRI Ceramiche’s Bio Colore collection – cremma, pistacchio (pictured above), and cielo.

While brands like Manufatti Revestimentos and Nina Martinelli both debuted new cobogó lines, it was LEPRI Ceramiche’s Cobogó Urca that stole the show with its nod to nature. Directly inspired by the form of Morro da Urca in Rio de Janeiro (the hill at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain), the breeze block reinterprets the traditional cobogó through a contemporary lens. | en.exporevestir.com.br

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WORDS Julia Franco PHOTOS Rawpixel; Supplied

I’m Brazilian, but there are many places in my country I’ve yet to explore – and I’ve long dreamt of road-tripping through Brazil’s north and northeast regions. They’re areas less frequented by tourists, filled with small, vibrant towns and playful, colourful communities. A visit to Brazil’s largest crafts fair in Recife gave me the perfect excuse to pack my bags for a five-week journey with my husband and son. It would be a 1 800km road trip through northeastern Brazil, with a couple of weeks in São Paulo.

We started in Recife, then wound our way past charming coastal towns like Maceió, Milagres and Porto de Galinhas, before finally reaching Salvador. Along the way, we stopped at Fenearte in Recife – a fair showcasing the work of more than 5 000 artisans – and visited the artists’ homes and studios, getting first-hand experience of their creative process.

Ilha Do Ferro, Alagoas State

One place that truly stole my heart was Ilha do Ferro, a peaceful village on the banks of the São Francisco River in the backlands of Alagoas. With about 500 residents, it is one of Brazil’s off-the-beaten-track gems for artisanal crafts and popular art. You’re able to wander around workshops, and see work emerging from clay, stone, wood, thread and paint, experiencing the authenticity of the place and the hospitality of its colourful residents.

Fernando started late in life, making his first piece for sale at the age of 40. By 70, he was presenting his work all over the world, and had created Boca do Vento atelier. He basically taught the entire village to create art; today, it’s home to dozens of artists specialising in wood carving and embroidery, especially a unique technique known as boa noite (“good night”). In front of their homes, in improvised workshops, in squares, on the banks of the river, men and women continue to tell history in tactile renderings.

The artists in Ilha do Ferro don’t cut down any of the wood they use – they work only on trees that had fallen. As soon as a tree falls, they start to divide and share it. Thin branches become chandeliers made by Wandinho; roots go to Zé Crente (the gravedigger); long bark is sent to Vavan to make benches; and smaller pieces are used by brothers Salvinho and Cícero to create their signature pieces of a man carrying a bird on his head.

São Miguel dos Milagres, Alagoas State

We originally planned to stay in São Miguel dos Milagres for just two nights – but once we saw it, that turned into six days. Words can’t really do this charming village justice. There are tons of artisans to visit, and plenty of shops filled with art from surrounding areas, making everything feel connected to the place and the people. The laid-back vibe, great food and colourful houses make this an ideal spot for contemplation – and the restaurants have no set menus, serving whatever is fresh and available that day.

Salvador, Bahia State

The former capital of Brazil, Salvador is a city like no other. Called the “Capital of Happiness”, it is known for its vibrant African-influenced cuisine, music and architecture. Its week-long carnival celebrations are legendary, and the city pulses with artistic energy, music, art and colonial-era architecture that’s gone untouched since the 18th century.

Arriving in Salvador is like stepping into history. It was the site of the first slave market in the New World, where enslaved Africans arrived to work on sugar plantations.

Today, the city reflects a blend of European, African and indigenous cultures, and is gaining recognition as a major hub for artistic and cultural expression in South America. It’s proudly cementing its place as the epicentre of the arts, breathing new life into centuries-old traditions.

I have a deep connection to Salvador. In my teenage years, I spent holidays there with family and friends, and I feel that a big part of Nosso comes from that energy. We decided to stay in the heart of the historical part of the city, to soak it all in. On our first day exploring the cobblestone streets, we stumbled upon a small gallery run by an Italian couple, where – to our surprise and delight – we discovered an original piece by J. Borges, a great woodcut artist in northeastern Brazil and one of the most celebrated masters of the art. His work has been showcased around the world, including at the Louvre and the Smithsonian Institution. We later learnt that he passed away just two days after our visit to the gallery.

São Paulo, São Paulo State

São Paulo – Brazil’s most populous city, and the most populous Portuguese-speaking city in the world – is a global powerhouse in commerce, finance, arts and entertainment. It’s also the city I know best – it’s where I’m from. During our stay, two major events took place: CasaCor, an architectural showcase; and Abup, a trade show for store owners. These fairs hold a special place in my heart because I used to attend them with my grandmother, who owned several decor and furniture shops. I was always excited to accompany her; being at these events again brought back many memories.

Some of the artists and brands that were present during my childhood still participate today. A particularly emotional moment was meeting a supplier whose family brand has passed down through generations; she told me how my grandmother was their only client when they first started out, and how their brand grew from there. That sense of intergenerational connection is something I’ll always cherish. It was an honour to introduce myself as her granddaughter, and I felt proud to continue the relationship she had built all those years ago – especially now, with Nosso! | nosso.co.za

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WORDS & PHOTOS Gina Dionisio

Brazil is celebrated for its vibrant design scene and its deep-rooted connection to both tradition and innovation. This was on full display at Expo Revestir 2025, the largest tile, surfaces, and sanitary ware trade fair in South America. Held in São Paulo – a hub for creativity and business in Brazil – the event showcased the latest trends and eco-conscious innovations by leading Brazilian brands. This marks our second year attending the event, and it didn’t disappoint. From stunning textures and bold patterns to sustainable materials, here are some of the highlights from the show.

IT’S ALL ABOUT TEXTURE

Think tactile tiles and three-dimensional architectural panels.

Ceusa’s Lapa tile stood out with its sophisticated 3D undulations, while Castelatto’s Poente Etrusco Colours tile, with its rippled surface, offered a divine dynamic yet subtle texture (it reminded me of ripples in an ice cream sundae).

At Portobello, the Território range – designed by Brazilian architect Rodrigo Fagá – presents a three-dimensional reinterpretation of traditional ceramic mosaics. However, the brand’s most striking textured collection was the Fita. This range draws inspiration from modernist architecture, particularly the principles of Le Corbusier, and is crafted using sururu shell waste, a mollusc native to Alagoas, Brazil.

The Basalt Decor Curve and Basalt Decor Line tiles from Portinari embrace a Brutalist aesthetic with their sharp, angular lines and bold, commanding presence.

PATTERN PARTY

From mosaics and geometric designs to brushstroke-inspired prints – patterns were indeed everywhere.

The pastel pastilhas aka mosaics display at ​Strufaldi Revestimentos Cerâmicos stopped me in my tracks. Their Renaissance collection is fully customisable with endless colour and pattern combinations.

At Embramaco Cerâmica, a range of striking designs in muted tones featured geometric patterns, while Karina paid homage to retro tiles with their Ducale range, which includes a delectable on-trend Mocha shade. Meanwhile, Aylla’s Calore range stood out thanks to its linear patterns and subtly “etched” geometrical details.

ViaRosa Porcelanato‘s porcelain Metropole Organic tile, with its abstract watercolour-esque pattern, was another highlight. The tile was a Best in Show 2025 finalist.

The Scuba collection at Portobello was visually striking. Characterised by its interplay between glossy areas and matte surfaces, the collection evokes the fluidity and movement of water, drawing inspiration from the serene beauty of the ocean. Another visually interesting range at Portobello was the Haptic collection – a collaboration with Brazilian visual artist Vik Muniz – which explores the different characteristics of paper and the subtle nuances of watercolour.

BLOCKS ARE BIG

Cobogós (aka Breeze Blocks) come in a variety of interesting shapes, sizes and finishes.

It’s no secret that we love Breeze Blocks at VISI (we’ve run features on them in the past), and these blocks are big business in Brazil. Manufatti Revestimentos had the most extensive range of decorative blocks on display. Their glazed Esmaltado line – inspired by the concept of the Rhizome – was particularly eye-catching.

At DeRosso geometric-shaped cobogós took centre stage. Their Quada, Cubo and Grid block (another Best in Show 2025 finalist) draw inspiration from modernism and industrial aesthetics.

Portobello displayed their glossy Aquarelle cobogós (also part of the Haptic collection mentioned above). Available in various colours, such as Natural, Green, Yellow, Blue, Red, and White, these blocks offer a unique aesthetic.

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

There were several brands doing interesting things with reclaimed materials.

Lepri, a brand known for championing eco-friendly materials, artisanal craftsmanship, and innovative design, showcased their Olaria Índigo collection. Sustainably produced, the Olaria Índigo tiles are made from recycled denim fibres. Developed in LepriLab, in collaboration with a local denim manufacturer, the collection aims to reduce the environmental impact of the textile industry by transforming waste into design.

The brand also highlighted its Bio Colore tiles, which are made in limited batches with a special glaze created by LepriLab using ashes from a wood-fired oven. This approach repurposes natural waste materials, reducing environmental impact. The result? A collection of three soft hues (cremma, pistacchio, and cielo) which celebrate the philosophy of “slow ceramics”.

The Nagomi Collection, a collaboration between Mirage and architect-designer Hadi Teherana, is a harmonious blend of aesthetics and environmental responsibility. The tiles are made with recycled materials, specifically the crushed glass from cathode ray tubes of old monitors and televisions.

Among Palazzo Revestimentos‘ new releases was Loop – a truly captivating terrazzo-like tile that incorporates discarded button waste from the textile industry.

COLOUR-DRENCHED BATHROOMS

Colourful grouting? Check. Fixtures in primary hues? Yes. Basins in bold shades? Why not. Colourful bathrooms are fun and I’m a fan.

Roca’s collaboration with Studio Inma Bermúdez on the Nu Collection – a striking collection of taps – is playful and bold. Available in six glossy colours (green, blue, yellow, black, white, and chrome), the collection has already won numerous international design awards since its launch.

Axell Banheiras e SPAs, known for their high-quality bathtubs and spas, showcased a vibrant collection of basins in an array of striking colours. These basins are crafted from the brand’s waste materials, including recycled acrylic from their bathtubs.

Colourful grouting might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but Ceramfix‘s display made a compelling case for it. It’s a great way to add a dose of colour to a bathroom, especially if you want to experiment with bold hues without committing to a wall of colourful tiles. | en.exporevestir.com.br

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WORDS Jo Buitendach PHOTOS Paul R Burley (Auditório Ibirapuera); Jo Buitendach; Supplied

São Paulo is Brazil’s vibrant financial centre, and a frenetic melting pot of a metropolis, where wealth and poverty exist side by side. It’s a gritty urban space, known for its thriving contemporary art scene, striking design and a multitude of street art. It is also bursting with architectural gems, especially for fans of Brazilian Modernism who know their Niemeyers from their Bo Bardis. If you’re thinking of adding São Paulo to your travel bucket list, here is a round-up of some of its unmissable museums, must-see architecture, cool design stores and chic hotels.

WHAT TO SEE

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) is housed in an architectural complex that was created by Oscar Niemeyer in the 1950s. Niemeyer is probably Brazil’s most celebrated architect, and a star of the global modernist movement. The museum has a collection of more than 10 000 works by international artists including Amedeo Modigliani and Joan Miró, as well as Brazilians Anita Malfatti, Tarsila do Amaral and Lygia Clark.

The Brazilian Museum of Sculpture (MuBE) is a dream for fans of striking architectural design and hefty amounts of concrete. Designed by Paulo Mendes da Rocha in the mid- 1980s, the building – a sculpture itself – features a large concrete beam and partially buried platform. mube.space

For art and architecture buffs, the Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP) is unmissable. Located on bustling Paulista Avenue, the 1960s building – which is suspended above a public square – was designed by Italian-born Brazilian architect Lina Bo Bardi. One of the most significant Brazilian architects of the 20th century, she also designed the glass easels upon which the works are installed. The museum’s long-term exhibition, “Gallery in Transformation”, is an unbeatable introduction to Brazilian art. masp.org.br

Opened in 1954 to celebrate the city’s 400th anniversary, Ibirapuera Park is one of Latin America’s largest urban parks – and home to several Oscar Niemeyer-designed buildings. They have become key landmarks of modern Brazilian architecture, and include the Biennial Pavilion, the Auditório Ibirapuera and the Oca exhibition space.

The Afro Brazil Museum, located inside Ibirapuera Park, is also worth visiting – it contains 6 000 works related to black African and Afro-Brazilian culture, and is housed in another Oscar Niemeyer building. Make sure to catch a glimpse of the striking yet controversial modernist Monument to the Bandeiras at the entrance to the park. museuafrobrasil.org.br

Beco do Batman, or Batman Alley, is a pedestrianised area in the Vila Madalena neighbourhood, known for its colourful graffiti and street art. São Paulo has a thriving graffiti scene, and this bohemian area is the best place to see it. Definitely stop at A Sétima Galeria, a graffiti and street-art gallery, where you can buy a work by a local graffiti artist to take home. a7ma.com.br

Pinacoteca de São Paulo is situated in downtown São Paulo and houses a wide array of Brazilian art, including 19th- century sculptures, modernist works and contemporary art. The building itself is worth a visit: a beautiful juxtaposition of old and new, it was refurbed in 1993 under the watchful eye of Paulo Mendes da Rocha. pinacoteca.org.br

WHERE TO SPEND IT

At Dpot Objeto – an offshoot of Dpot, a store that sells contemporary Brazilian furniture – you’ll find smaller design objects by more than 200 artists, architects, artisans and folk artists. dpotobjeto.com.br

Atelier Carlos Motta was founded in 1978 by award-winning architect and designer Carlos Motta. He and his team design and make environmentally and socially responsible furniture and sculptures. The atelier is brimming with prototypes of his iconic work, including his most emblematic piece – the Asturias rocking chair. Made of reclaimed wood, the chair can be seen in the permanent collection of the Museum of Design and Fashion (MUDE) in Lisbon, Portugal. carlosmotta.com

Just downstairs from the atelier is Attom – a partnership between Carlos and his son, Diego. They develop sustainable, simple and sophisticated utility products, making Attom the perfect spot to pick up environmentally responsible pieces as a reminder of your holiday. These include handcrafted bowls made of reclaimed and FSC-certified wood. attomdesign.com

Marcenaria Baraúna is an architecture studio that designs and creates furniture and wooden objects, from start to finish. They take wood very seriously, focusing on its sustainability, feel, texture and colour. Baraúna also sells iconic works, such as the 1986 Giraffe chair designed by Marcelo Ferraz, Marcelo Suzuki and Lina Bo Bardi. barauna.com.br

Prototype is a home design brand that smoothly combines its Brazilian roots with an industrial aesthetic. The business was started 10 years ago by designer and architect Felipe Protti; the design items on show are a retro – but modern – melange of aluminium, leather and wood. prototypesp.com.br

WHERE TO LAY YOUR HEAD

If high drama and zany architecture are your thing, Hotel Unique is the obvious choice. The inverted arch-shaped building designed by innovative Brazilian architect Ruy Ohtake offers a masterclass in curated contemporary design, including the Boa sofa by the local Campana Brothers and the gravity-defying Charleston sofa by Dutch brand Moooi. The hotel’s rooftop Skye Restaurant & Bar offers breathtaking views of São Paulo, and a 25m-long crimson pool, which Wallpaper magazine voted as one of the best in the world. hotelunique.com

With interiors by Philippe Starck, Rosewood São Paulo is a glam oasis of a hotel, set in both a historic building and a striking new vertical tower by award-winning architect Jean Nouvel. Dining options include Blaise – a restaurant designed to look like a wooden chalet tucked away in a forest; and Rabo Di Galo – an old-school jazz club and cocktail bar with a dramatic hand-painted ceiling. rosewoodhotels.com

THE GUIDE

If you’re looking for a fantastic local guide, Renato Crestincov of Beeare Travel is the perfect choice. Whether you’re interested in admiring architecture and design, collecting art, or a little retail therapy, he can tailor your travel experience to your needs. renatocrestincov

KEEPING SAFE AND GETTING AROUND

São Paulo has a high crime rate, so keep your wits about you. Ask advice from a trusted local; try to keep the valuables you carry on you to a minimum; avoid walking alone at night; and only take registered taxis or Uber. The city is huge and traffic is a big issue, so always factor that in.

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The post São Paulo Style appeared first on Visi.

From fully tiled pools making a comeback to an abundance of patterns, here are the current essential tile trends, as seen at Expo Revestir in São Paulo, Brazil.

São Paulo is a megacity – a sprawling metropolis with frenetic energy, endless traffic and a huge population. It’s also the home of Latin America’s largest coatings and finishings fair, Expo Revestir.

What to expect of an invitation to attend a tile/surfaces trade fair in South America? Would it be interesting and VISI-worthy? I wasn’t sure. I had little idea of how big Brazil’s tile industry was. But after one week in the economic heart of the country, I now know it’s one of the world’s largest manufacturers and exporters of ceramic tiles.

Established more than two decades ago, Expo Revestir is 65 000m2 of floors and surfaces, bathroom fixtures, trends and innovative design. It’s fantastic to see this level of trade, production and creativity from a fellow member of the sometimes-maligned Global South. It’s also not a surprise: Brazil has a strong history of design, and is the home of modernist starchitects Oscar Niemeyer, Paulo Mendes da Rocha and Lina Bo Bardi. It’s also home to notable furniture designers, including the Campana brothers. The region is a bubbling melting pot of contemporary design and art.

With countless options to pick from, here are just a few of the top tile and ceramics trends seen at Expo Revestir.

Unique Shapes

The days of tiles being only square or rectangular are long gone. Uniquely shaped tiles are all the rage – think circles, stars, crosses, fans, ogees, half-moons, triangles, hexagons and octagons. You can go bananas and cover the whole bathroom in this geometric jumble, or stick to an interesting backsplash. They’re a fun way of injecting character into a space.

Mosaics

First seen in Mesopotamia thousands of years ago, mosaics are far from new. That said, our love for them is certainly not abating – and they’re no longer designated for the generic borders around swimming pools. At Expo Revestir, there were mosaics in every hue, shape and size, and the way they were laid out was just as important. From herringbone to a bit of mix-and-match, creating unique designs is key.

Fully Tiled Pools

Rock a little retro with a fully tiled pool, plunge pool or hot tub. Whether you use mosaics, natural stone, porcelain or ceramic, tiles can add a premium finish that’s also easy to clean and requires less maintenance. Think dramatic dark green, a chequerboard mosaic or – if you’re bold by nature – a combo of bright pink and turquoise. Get yourself some Palm Springs poolside panache!

Big on Marble

Devotees of drama will be on board with large marble or onyx-look porcelain tiles. Their popularity is on the up, due in part to their affordability and easy maintenance on both floors and walls. OTT versions were the order of the day in São Paulo, in deep emerald greens, intense browns and flashy blacks with eye-catching dramatic veining.

Terracotta

Terracotta tiles are a perennial favourite, and Expo Revestir had them by the bucketload. There was a huge selection of sizes and spicy hues on show, with the added twist of patterned versions (featuring geometric designs and polka dots) that are going on our wish list ASAP. We also spotted tiles with an irregular surface – and whether it’s a natural stone feel, a subtle organic pattern or a bolder fluted or ribbed option, these tiles add visual and textural interest and dimension to any space.

Patterns, Patterns and More Patterns

A huge takeaway for me at Expo Revestir was patterns, patterns and more patterns. The choices were practically endless – and they were all about making a statement. Think bucolic designs, azulejo-style tiles and Mid-century Modern geometrics. A noteworthy trend here was tiles with intentional pattern differences, which created a distinct contrast and design when set out.

Fun Layouts

It’s time to have fun with tiling layouts, and consider grids, offset designs, chevrons or herringbone. Another idea is to use multiple colours to create stripes or cool patterns. Mixing various designs is the perfect way to make classics more current, or to use a budget-friendly tile in a novel way.

Terrazzo

A favourite of any Mid-century enthusiast, terrazzo and terrazzo-look tiles or laminate flooring made an impact at Expo Revestir. First used in Venice more than 500 years ago, terrazzo translates to terrace, and traditionally refers to concrete that contains bits of marble or other stone. It’s often made using recycled materials, so it’s relatively sustainable. While the traditional version will always be a winner in our book, bolder and brighter contemporary options are worth a look too.

Cobogó

We know them as breeze blocks in South Africa, but in Brazil they are called cobogó – and they are massive business. This makes sense, if you consider the way they maximise light and natural ventilation in warmer climates. The cobogó first appeared in the 1920s, and its name is the combination of the first syllable of the last names of its creators, a rather cosmopolitan trio of engineers – Amadeu Oliveira Coimbra (Portuguese), Ernesto August Boeckmann (German) and Antônio de Góis (Brazilian). The volume of choice when it comes to shape and materials, especially from Brazilian brand Manufatti, is astounding. | en.exporevestir.com.br

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Nestled on the banks of the Rìo Negro with panoramic views of Brazil’s Anavilhanas National Park, the unique design of Mirante do Gavião Amazon Lodge allows travellers to truly experience the jungle environment.

The main objective of the architects at Atelier O’Reilly Sustainable Strategies was to integrate inspiring design, the natural environment and the riverside community. Reforested wood and local building techniques were used to create the lodge’s unique bungalows which resemble inverted fishing boats used by the community.

The design of Mirante do Gavião Amazon Lodge works in harmony with the landscape and incorporates multiple sustainable design elements. The curved design of the roof helps reduce temperatures and promote natural airflow inside each cabin, while the elevated walkways and wooden decks allow for ventilation underneath the building.

The interior design of this architecturally-captivating space also makes use of hyper-local materials and techniques. Each bungalow features natural fibre finishes, locally-made wooden furniture with marble details, woven baskets and other beautiful objèt celebrating the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Many of the decor pieces at the lodge were created by craftsmen from the Fundação Almerinda Malaquias, an NGO with headquarters in the same city, Novo Airão, whose projects are supported by the hotel.

For the gardens, landscape designer Clariça Lima used native vegetation (over 70 native plants and fruit trees) in an effort to preserve the local biome. “On the ground there was a lot of vegetation and large trees. Based on this, the adopted approach sought to use a composition with shrubs and bedding, avoiding the obstruction of the landscape and allowing guests to see the entire surroundings of the Amazon Forest, integrating the architectural project with the existing vegetation on the land,” says Clariça.

The lodge acts as a connecting hub between tourists, the local community and the river. It is the starting point for Katerre Expeditions, an ecotourism company that offers an immersive Amazonian experience. Both Mirante do Gavião Amazon Lodge and Katerre Expeditions provide funds for local social projects which focus on environmental education for children and the development of branded design products by local craftsmen.

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Brazilian illustrator and designer Willian Santiago creates colourful artworks featuring beautiful depictions of people and wildlife.

From fashion to skateboards, his work forms part of a variety of collaborations, where his illustrations are used in the form of prints. Inspired in part by nature, Willian also draws on the rich culture of Brazil and its local artisanal crafts.

Most of Willian’s work is produced through digital mediums while drawing on the stylistic elements of hand-made art, layering textures such as paint splashes or crayon markings.

He uses a range of bright, bold colours, with a focus on red, turquoise, blue, green and black, a nod to the Art Deco movement.

See more of his work on Behance and follow @willian_santiago on Instagram.

(h/t) wepresent.wetransfer.com

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Renan Viana is a Brazilian photographer whose shrunken people project provides an imaginative way of viewing the grind of daily life.

He started with the micro characters concept back in 2014 after finding a box of miniatures. “I was impressed by the perfection of the details and the ideas of photos began to appear at the same time,” he explains on his website. “I came home and started researching on the subject, and I saw some fantastic work by photographers around the world. I then decided to use the dolls to create a project where I ‘shrink people’ and put them in unusual scenes, leading me to imagine what it would be like to be so small in that situation.”

Instagram has become central to his process, as it’s proven to be the ideal platform to showcase his work with its “pocket gallery” quality.

Here are 13 of our favourite micro scenes.

Nossa nova pista de patinação, quem topa dar uma volta? ??

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Mar 30, 2018 at 4:18pm PDT

Ajudando a natureza a colorir mais dias ? #achadosdasemana #communityfirst #saopaulocity #splovers #vejasp

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Aug 27, 2017 at 7:53am PDT

Ah o café… ? #coffeelover #achadosdasemana #communityfirst #bomdia

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Oct 30, 2017 at 4:37am PDT

Para os apaixonados por café ? Arraste para o lado e veja o making of :) Music by: Waves – Joakim Karud

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Mar 26, 2018 at 5:05pm PDT

Cuide bem do seu jardim ???? Arraste para o lado e veja o making of :) Music: Maxzwell – Darlin ?

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Feb 24, 2018 at 9:13am PST

O futuro é agora! Arraste para o lado e veja o making of :)

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Feb 28, 2018 at 4:02pm PST

É carnaval! ? Vem pro bloquinho do Encolhi! ? Arraste para o lado e veja o making of :) Music: Maxzell – Darlin ? ? #reservaporai

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Feb 11, 2018 at 5:57am PST

Você quer verão @? Bora! ?? Este clique faz parte da série #EncolhiOVerão, da @cacaushow que tivemos o prazer de criar em parceria com as marcas Abril Vocês podem conferir as imagens que já saíram no perfil da Capricho e da Elle Arraste para o lado e veja o making of :) Music: Maxzwell – Darlin ?

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Feb 6, 2018 at 3:03pm PST

Um mergulho para relaxar ? ?‍ Arraste para o lado e veja o making of :) Music ? : Dyalla – Travellin

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Feb 5, 2018 at 6:00am PST

Quando o próprio museu é uma obra de arte ? Foto feita com o #motoz2play #hellocidades :)

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Jan 18, 2018 at 2:06pm PST

Relax! ?

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Jan 7, 2018 at 5:41am PST

O tempo vai passar… Os anos vão confirmar… ? As três palavras que eu proferi… ? Amigo estou aqui!!! ? #achadosdasemana #communityfirst #belemdopara

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Jul 20, 2017 at 5:39am PDT

Navegar é preciso ?? #achadosdasemana #communityfirst #food

A post shared by Renan Viana (@encolhiaspessoas) on Jun 16, 2017 at 6:13am PDT

For more information, visit encolhiaspessoas.com.br.

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