A Conversation with Julie de Halleux, founder of Lisbon by Design
LISBON by DESIGN, curated by Julie de Halleux, returns for its fourth edition, hosted at the historic Palacete Gomes Freire from May 22-26. This annual fair showcases a selection of over 25 artists and artisans, who present exclusive pieces spanning ceramics, textiles, and more, celebrating Portuguese craftsmanship and design tradition.
"My vision was to create a dynamic momentum that celebrates and elevates Portuguese craft and design."
– Julie de Halleux, founder of Lisbon by Design
What's Lisbon by Design?
Lisbon by Design is an annual fair held in a beautiful palace in Lisbon, dedicated to celebrating and promoting Portuguese craft and design. This year, our fourth edition, kicking off on May 22nd, will feature 26 talented artists, each presenting unique pieces crafted exclusively for the event. From ceramics to textiles, designer furniture, and glassware, these works embody the essence of Portuguese craftsmanship and creativity.
What was your vision when founding Lisbon by Design, and how do you curate the emerging and established creators that participate in the fair?
When founding Lisbon by Design, my vision was to create a dynamic momentum that celebrates and elevates Portuguese craft and design. I aimed to establish a platform where emerging and established creators could showcase their work to a broader audience. In curating the participants for the fair, I meticulously seek out creators who embody aesthetics, quality, and authenticity in their designs. I strive to create a diverse and vibrant mix of talents, representing various styles and perspectives within the Portuguese design landscape. Through careful selection and curation, I ensure that each participant contributes to the rich tapestry of creativity that defines Lisbon by Design.
What can visitors expect for this year's Lisbon by Design edition?
For this year's edition of Lisbon by Design, visitors can expect a new showcase of talents from renowned artists like Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance and Bela Silva, who created works for Viúva Lamego, to emerging young designers like Sebastião Lobo or Vasco Barracão. I am thrilled to introduce new artists who are pushing the boundaries of Portuguese craft and design. One of the exciting highlights of this edition is our emphasis on fostering collaboration among artists. I believe that collaboration breeds creativity, and by bringing together diverse talents, we aim to inspire the creation of truly unique and groundbreaking works. Visitors can anticipate experiencing a fusion of ideas, styles, and techniques, resulting in an unforgettable display of creativity at its finest.
"From ceramics to textiles, designer furniture, and glassware, these works embody the essence of Portuguese craftsmanship and creativity."
– Julie de Halleux, founder of Lisbon by Design
The fourth edition of Lisbon by Design will feature 24 participants, including galleries, creators, and artists such as Alan Louis, Oderola, Pareidólia, and Burel (pictured above). They will unveil unique pieces crafted in Portugal, specifically commissioned for this event and shown for the first time.
"I meticulously seek out creators who embody aesthetics, quality, and authenticity in their designs."
– Julie de Halleux, founder of Lisbon by Design
We saw that you are organising an art prize together with Morgado do Quintão wine producers. Could you tell us more about this initiative?
Absolutely. Partnering with Morgado do Quintão wine estates has been a fantastic opportunity to marry art and wine in a meaningful way.
They are small producers from the Algarve with a strong affinity for the arts. These wine producers are committed to organic and low-intervention practices, reflecting a deep respect for their land and environment. Through various cultural programmes, they seamlessly weave together their rich history of winemaking with a dedication to the arts. From intimate supper clubs to immersive art residencies, they foster an environment where creativity flourishes alongside the appreciation of fine wine.
Morgado do Quintão’s commitment to culture extends beyond the realm of winemaking; they're deeply invested in supporting emerging artistic talent. As part of this initiative, the MdQ committee will select one artist at Lisbon by Design and award the Morgado do Quintão Sustainable Design Prize, together with an art residency programme.
In 2023 you also co-founded the Lisbon Design Week. How did that come about?
After founding the Lisbon by Design fair, I wanted to extend its creative vibe across the city. That's how the idea of Lisbon Design Week came about in 2023. By opening artists' studios and building connections with those showcasing at the fair, we aimed to keep the creative momentum going year-round. Moving forward, Lisbon by Design will keep launching new projects and curating works to promote Portuguese talents, both in Portugal and abroad.
Tell us your perfect day in Lisbon.
A perfect day in Lisbon would start with a matcha latte on a sunny terrace, followed by browsing through a lively market. Next, visiting artists' studios and working on my projects. Finally, exploring a new cultural event or exhibition, and trying out a new restaurant would cap off the day. Lisbon's buzzing energy ensures there's always something exciting to discover!
Do you have a favourite spot in Portugal for a quick getaway?
For a quick weekend getaway, one of my favourite spots is Meco where we built a house. It's perfect for relaxing amidst stunning landscapes and enjoying a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Which hotels in Portugal have captured your heart?
I typically head south of Lisbon, often to the Alentejo or East Algarve like Ria Formosa and I'm planning to explore the North of Portugal, especially Burel Hotels (Casa das Penhas Douradas and Casa de São Lourenço), a brand I deeply admire for its sustainable approach. I am happy to showcase their new interior design collection at this upcoming edition of Lisbon by Design.
Moreover, I have a soft spot for São Lourenço do Barrocal in the Alentejo and A Hospedaria in Ria Formosa. I have just spent the weekend at Dá Licença hotel in Estremoz. The experience was simply amazing! I couldn't get enough of the vintage market on Saturday morning. And strolling through the picturesque countryside was an absolute delight.
São Lourenço do Barrocal in the Alentejo, one of Julie's favourite hotels in Portugal.
Julie recently enjoyed an "amazing" weekend at Dá Licença in Estremoz, exploring the vibrant local vintage market and the serene countryside.
"I believe that collaboration breeds creativity, and by bringing together diverse talents, we aim to inspire the creation of truly unique and groundbreaking works."
– Julie de Halleux, founder of Lisbon by Design
Thank you very much for this interview Julie.
The fourth edition of LISBON by DESIGN will be taking place at the historic Palacete Gomes Freire in May 2024. More details below.
Instagram: @lisbonbydesign
Website: lisbonbydesign.com
Open to the public:
May 23rd – Thursday, 4 - 9 pm
May 24th - Friday, 4 - 9 pm
May 25th and 26th – Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm
Address:
Palacete Gomes Freire, Rua Gomes Freire 98, Lisboa
Here's hoping you create new memories here in Portugal. Tag us on Instagram (we would love it if you do!) and let us know how it goes. 🤗
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Obrigada,
Joana and Sofia
- JO&SO
© Cover portrait of Julie de Halleux courtesy of Lisbon by Design (credit: Cláudia Rocha).
Photo of Alan Louis by Frenchie Cristogatin.
Photo of Oderola by Mariana Rola Pereira.
Photo of Pareidolia by Tatiana Ferreira.
Photo of Burel by Burel Factory & Claudia Rocha.
Photos of A Hospedaria and Dá Licença by Francisco Nogueira.
Photos of São Lourenço do Barrocal by Ash James.
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