DL: Do you remember the moment you became interested in interior architecture?

AC: Interior architecture came naturally into my life as a consequence and part of a whole. As an architect, when I design a residence, the layout of furniture to create environments and the choice of coverings are considered during the architectural design phase. This is how I found myself directly involved with interior architecture. On the other hand, I am also hired specifically for interior projects, in buildings that have already been built.

DL: What do you love the most about your work?

AC: What I like the most about my work are the challenges and daily research, always with the aim of not repeating formulas and being open to new concepts.

DL: Who (or what) are your greatest references when imagining your aesthetic universe?

AC: On the one hand, my aesthetic references are linked to my Brazilian origin, where the use of natural materials such as wood, straw and stones are very present. I also look for a certain minimalism, that is, less furniture in larger proportions. I love mixing different aesthetic languages, whether artisanal or high-tech, and  different materials. I often like  to wear period pieces that remind me of other times.

DL: Are there any recurring design pieces or objects of desire in your projects?

AC: I try not to repeat pieces because there is a lot of variety on the market, I’m always looking for new designers. But the most important thing is to guarantee quality and comfort. I always try to mix established brands with lesser-known brands, where aesthetics is the fundamental link.

DL: How do you think about a space that will be lived in by other people? What are your priorities?

AC: My priority when designing a house is to try to interpret the information provided by clients, in order to respond to their tastes and objectives in a concrete way. I think this exchange is very important, it is what makes projects unique and not become repetitive.

DL: A brand with impeccable quality?

AC: Some of the brands that I consider to be irreproachable are Minotti,  Flexform, Poltrona Frau, House of Finn Juhl and Inoda + Sveje.

DL: What designers do you admire?

AC: I admire the designers Patricia Urquiola, Rodolfo Dordoni, Inoda+Sveje, Michael Anastassiades, Piero Lissoni, Sergio Rodrigues, Nendo, Salszupin, among others.

DL: What are the biggest differences between Brazilian and European design? Are you interested in exploring this contrast in your projects?

AC: The main difference between Brazilian designers and European designers is the type of materials they work with. More natural materials such as straw, stones and solid wood are the most used in Brazilian furniture, while the use of high technology in steel, glass and marble are more frequently found in European industry.

The main difference between Brazilian designers and European designers is the type of materials they work with. More natural materials such as straw, stones and solid wood are the most used in Brazilian furniture, while the use of high technology in steel, glass and marble are more frequently found in European industry.DL: Do you follow trends or do you prefer to opt for timeless classics?

AC: I don’t stick to trends, because I don’t like doing projects that are dated. I always try to understand and even anticipate new movements, as trends are constantly evolving.

DL: What is the first piece to appear in your project and why?

AC: The first piece I choose is usually the sofa, which determines the spaces and size of the rooms. Next I choose the dining table, for the same reasons.

DL: How would you describe this project?

AC: This is a project that paid special attention to the use of spaces, and the external area was designed to integrate with the internal area, giving an idea of ​​continuity. Vertical appliqués reminiscent of wooden sheds found in rural villages were used on the walls of the room to create rhythm in the space while disguising the TV unit (built-in). An illuminated rostrum made the connection between the different heights on the apartment’s ceiling. Warm colors were the chosen option, where the green in the internal area highlights the vertical garden in the external area. As a complement, the color of the tile and the furniture carefully chosen for both design and materials came into play. Lighting for me is fundamental, which is why I always work with lighting technicians on my projects.

DL: How does the creative process begin? Do you try to live up to what your clients imagine or do you prefer to challenge them to step out of their comfort zones?

AC: In my opinion, it is very important to make the owner interested and question pre-established standards. I always see an evolution in my clients because I make a point of explaining the reason for each choice. Behind the harmony of the pieces there is always an aesthetic logic and proportions, which I like to make very clear to whoever hires me.

DL: This project conveys modernity and novelty. How do you stay current?

AC: For me, the creative process begins based on the limitations found in each place, the need for balance of spaces and the objectives we have in mind.

DL: Do you feel it is a challenge to create harmony between furniture and art?

AC: Works of art, first of all, have to bring emotion to whoever chooses them. But they also cannot conflict with the environment, or they risk devaluing themselves.

DL: How did the connection to QuartoSala come about? And how was this relationship consolidated throughout the project?

AC: I’ve known QuartoSala for a few years, we have a good rapport and a pleasant coexistence. I have a very frank relationship with the store regarding budget and delivery times. It’s a good partnership and they always help me, even when I ask for brands they don’t usually work with. We have a relationship of trust and cooperation.

DL: Can you highlight three pieces from QuartoSala that were essential in bringing the project to life?

AC: The Atoll Sofa by B&B Italia, the dining chairs by Magis, designed by Spaniard Jaime Hayon, and outdoor furniture by Kettal were the key pieces of QuartoSala.

DL: Any memories linked to this project or stories to tell?

AC: This apartment was purchased off-plan and at the time I helped the clients choose it, I immediately realized the potential of the external area when interconnected with the interior. This integration was worked on through the arrangement of the furniture and also through the colors of the environments and furniture.

DL: A place in Portugal that you want to return to?

AC: There are so many interesting places in Portugal. Whenever I can I go to Alentejo and I also love spending a few days in the Douro region.