Over the past 16 years we´ve had the privilege of transforming numerous spaces into beautiful, functional environments that reflect the unique needs and aspirations of our clients.

At Williams De Oliveira Designs, we swear by a few key fundamentals, believing that successful interior design hinges on these principles.

In this article, we delve more into these essential principles, which form the foundation of every project we undertake, and highlight some of the unique challenges we encounter as an interior design firm based in Portugal.

The 3 Key Design Fundamentals

The People

First and foremost, before we even sketch a single line or pick out a colour palette, we prioritize understanding the people who will be using the space, and what the intended use of each space will be. Each project begins with an in-depth consultation to understand our clients’ lifestyles, preferences, and specific needs.

Is the space a bustling family kitchen, a serene home office, or a vibrant retail store? Or is it a single space that must cater to a multitude of uses?

Since relocating our design firm to Lisbon in 2017, we´ve witnessed firsthand how Portugal has blossomed, and has increasingly become a sought-after destination for individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, seeking to make Portugal their new home.

 And by attracting such a melting pot of people looking to embrace Portugal´s vibrant lifestyle, it highlights the importance of understanding each individual and their subtle design differences, therefore allowing us to create spaces for our clients that are not only beautiful, but also highly functional and personalized.

Form & Function

A well-designed space is not just about looks; it must function efficiently and stand the test of time.

This approach is particularly important in the many diverse settings we encounter here in Portugal, from the historic charm of Lisbon and Porto, to the modern villas of the Algarve.  Designing in Portugal presents unique set of challenges and opportunities, often with the blend of old-world charm and contemporary living. Understanding this in the local context is essential.

The key elements to better understand the principle of form & function are:

Durability & Practicality

Each surface material and finish of the design is carefully considered, how it will be used and its longevity. This means selecting materials that can withstand the daily wear and tear.

Humidity and the intense sunlight are especially true here in Portugal. This unique climate demands materials that can withstand these conditions, whilst maintaining their aesthetic appeal. For instance, when designing for outdoor areas we would opt for UV and stain-resistant fabrics. In kitchen & bathroom areas, moisture and mould resistant materials are a must.

Spatial Planning & Furniture Design

Spatial planning is essentially the flow of movement within the space, and ensuring that the furniture placement makes sense and does not hinder this flow.

When it comes to furniture design, the focus is on selecting pieces that fit the scale of the room, complements the overall design theme, and most importantly are comfortable and user friendly. No matter how beautiful an item of furniture may look, if it is uncomfortable or difficult to use then, in our opinion, there really is no point in having it in the space.  Custom furniture can be a game-changer, allowing us to address unique challenges and make the most of the available space.

Interior design in Portugal, particularly in the urban areas like Lisbon and Porto, spatial planning often involves creative solutions to maximize functionality without sacrificing style. This might include multifunctional furniture, clever storage solutions, and designs that seamlessly integrate modern amenities into historic buildings. Which brings us to our next point.

Storage

An often overlooked but crucial aspect of functionality is sufficient storage. Without adequate storage, even the most beautifully designed space can quickly become cluttered and chaotic. At Williams De Oliveira Designs, we emphasize the importance of integrating ample storage solutions into our designs. This might include built-in wardrobes, custom cabinetry, and innovative storage solutions that maximize space whilst complementing the aesthetics.

In the Lisbon city centre, for example, where space can be limited, this understanding and creative approach to storage solutions is crucial to making every square meter count.

Lighting

Lighting is one of the most transformative elements in interior design. It not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a space, but also influences its mood and functionality. At Williams De Oliveira Designs, we consider three types of lighting: ambient, task, and accent.

Ambient lighting provides overall illumination, while task lighting is focused on specific areas such as reading nooks or kitchen countertops. Accent lighting is used to highlight architectural features or artwork. By layering these types of lighting, we create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere that can be customized to suit different needs and occasions.

In Portugal, where natural light is abundant, we often design spaces that take full advantage of this natural resource. Large windows, skylights, and strategically placed mirrors can enhance natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Magic

Interior design encompasses many technical principles; thoughtful consideration of functionality and durability, strategic spatial planning, effective lighting and storage . . .and then there´s the element of artist expression.

Have you ever walked through a beautifully designed space and everything feels effortless?

This is the magic.

It´s the hours dedicated to the careful selection and layering of colours, fabrics and textures. The curation and placement of artworks and accessories, books mindfully selected to the genres and interests of our clients, the subtle hint of fragrance in the air.

It´s at this final stage of the design that these finishing touches tie everything together, and we are given the opportunity to stand back and appreciate the design as a whole, with all the elements in harmony with one another.

Portugal is home to many skilled artisans who create exquisite home décor items. From beautifully crafted azulejos that adorn walls and floors with timeless elegance, to handcrafted ceramics, Portuguese craftsmanship is celebrated for its exceptional quality.