Rua Da Voz Do Operario

An Harmonious Blend of Heritage & Modernity

Nathalie, Co-founder of Studio Bisson shares the vision and artistic collaborations that shaped this unique project.

This unique endeavor headed by Nathalie, Interior Architect & founder of Studio Bisson, represents our first "carte blanche" project, where we had the opportunity to create a stunning showcase apartment for our client, Corvo Azul. Situated in a beautifully preserved building near Largo da Graça, the project allowed us to blend contemporary design with the rich cultural heritage of the area. In this interview, Nathalie reflects on the project’s vision, design process, and the meticulous selection of local artists and materials that brought this project to life.

Nathalie celebrating the completion of Voz do Operário Project

Photo courtesy of Telmo

1. What was your initial vision for this project, and how did it evolve during the design process?

This project is very special to us. It is our first "carte blanche" project. Our client, Corvo Azul, invested in the renovation of this building near Largo da Graça, which consists of about ten high-end apartments with gardens. Corvo Azul's objective was to furnish one of the apartments to serve as a model unit.

The building is part of an area that was preserved from the 1755 earthquake, maintaining its charm with its high ceilings, Pombaline structure, and azulejo-tiled façade. Architect studio HAJE beautifully highlighted the old-world charm while modernizing the apartments.

We chose this guiding principle: to integrate a very contemporary design while keeping a deeply Portuguese heart.

For this, we selected furniture made from noble, natural materials: wood, lime paint, handcrafted raffia wallpaper, etc. The designs themselves remain minimalist for a modern look.

The artists chosen were meticulously selected: 100% Portuguese and above all, passionate! The apartment features ceramics and lighting by Anna Westerlund, wall art by Defio Rug (via Flores Textile) and Azur Art, and sculptures by Fulvio.

We particularly enjoyed meeting these artists, discovering their workshops, their passion, and their processes. Each element is unique, steeped in history, and takes a special place in the apartment.

2. How do you balance aesthetics and functionality when designing a space?

The question of balancing aesthetics and functionality is always a bit tricky when it comes up in discussions between architects and designers. There is no doubt: one does not exclude the other. However, my philosophy is that aesthetics should serve functionality. I believe this stems from my very Cartesian side—I have a background in mathematics and sciences, and eventually transitioned into a more artistic profession.

When I think about a living space, I like to imagine the daily lives of its inhabitants. I prioritize practicality first. This foundation allows me to establish the constraints for creation and design.

The Dining Area - Photos by Telmo

3. Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently on this project?

This happens with all of my projects. I always think I could have done something differently. But this is due to the fact that, as interior designers, we are constantly exposed to new artists, new designs, and new brands, etc. It's the beauty of this job. However, as we are continuously learning, we must accept that each project follows its own timeline. And ultimately, this is why different styles evolve during different periods of time.

The Music Area - Photos by Telmo

4. How do you ensure that the final result reflects the client’s personality and lifestyle?

We always have a preliminary interview with our clients to understand their habits, tastes, wishes, etc. This is then confirmed with a moodboard, which is a crucial part of the interior design process because sometimes words can have different meanings for each person. Nothing is more explicit than an image.

We also involve our clients in the entire process, so in the end, we build the project together—it’s a team effort with the client. There’s no doubt that the result reflects the client’s personality.

The Kitchen - Photos by Telmo

5. How does this project reflect your personal design philosophy?

Our philosophy is to make each project unique and charming by using quality, natural materials and collaborating with independent artists and craftsmen. This way, the project fully embraces our core design principles.

Detail Shots - Photos by Telmo

6. What role does sustainability play in your design decisions?

Even though it is rarely 100% local, we try our best to work with local designers, artists, and craftsmen. We also prioritize using high-quality materials to ensure a long-lasting result. Additionally, we are constantly discovering brands that have sustainable processes of creation and fabrication. Beyond the design itself, this is an important aspect for us.

Dining Area - Photos by Telmo

7. What is your favorite part of the creative process, and why?

Each part of the creative process is enjoyable, but for me, the following three steps are the best, and I couldn’t choose just one:

Drawing is wonderful because it's at this stage that I start to see the constraints and can begin implementing the first aspects of creativity.
I also love discovering new artists, designs, etc. The initial ideas evolve further when you meet them, and it becomes a team effort to create a unique project.
Finally, the realization. There’s nothing quite like seeing the result of an entire process come to life.

8. What advice would you give to someone looking to redesign their home or space?

To see the project in its entirety, to take the time to explore ateliers and meet artists, and finally, to have the courage to bring your creative ideas to life.

Master Bedroom details (Porada furniture) - Entrance detail (Porada furniture)

Photos by Telmo

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