FiggoscopeA little insight into who's behind Figgoscope Curates... Olá, I’m Marta Figueiredo, I am a Portuguese architect and I am the curator, designer and owner of Figgoscope Curates. Figgoscope Curates is a Melbourne-based curatorial practice consisting of a carefully selected collection of Portuguese design objects, each one having evolved out of exciting collaborations with emerging designers and Portuguese artisans. Our collections ranging from home textiles, furniture, artwork, to lighting design are a perfect balance of innovative design, high-quality materials and timeless craft, making them a unique addition to both residential and commercial interiors. TDC - Tell us about your brand. What do you do? Figgoscope Curates was founded 3 years ago, when I was introduced to a new wave of Portuguese designers and artisans, who have a new spin on the traditional Portuguese craft. Portugal is renowned for their incredible quality of materials and manufacturing but these industries were in decline and lacked new creative blood to make it extraordinary! I started by contacting designers and artisans in Portugal and spent time in their workshops to learn in detail about the making of their pieces. The concept of setting up Figgoscope Curates evolved naturally from the wish of sharing these amazing product designs to the Australian market. Figgoscope Curates not only selects and coordinates the range with the artisans & manufacturers in Portugal, but some of the pieces are collaborations and designed by us, here in Australia. TDC - What sets your brand apart? We focus on sustainable product design that carries a traditional mastering of craft - where heritage meets design. In an era of globalisation, mass consumerism and social media, we're witnessing a tendency for uniformity and instant plastic fantastic buying culture. In contrast, we were seduced by the originality of the techniques and material characteristics that are unique to various regions of Portugal. We were inspired by the younger generation of designers and craft makers that are so proudly revitalising the designs while keeping the originality of the ancient craft alive. Also, we make sure that the story of the product and maker can be shared and heard by giving a new meaning to the object. Our collections consist of inventive design, exceptional quality materials and timeless craft, making them an original addition to the Australian interior design scene. That and Portuguese tarts - the original Pastel Natas! TDC - What design ethos do you live by? At Figgoscope Curates we live, breath and eat sophisticated craft and slow design principles. In other words, each object from our range carries a designer's sophisticated rendition of ancient, sustainable and refined craft. Our products are a labour of love, only small quantities are produced at a time, perfecting their quality. As a result these products will last for a lifetime. By doing so, we cater for the design conscious community and their savvy palette. TDC - What's your favourite product in your range and why? That's a really hard question...as we're in love with all of our products... But Ok... this time I will pick the new range of fabrics of Burel colours and stitches - freshly arrived! For 2018 Burel 100% felted woven wool came up with some deep, rich and moody shades. They're a blend of colours, they're flexible, they have a great variety of vibrant undertones and they just get my design-head working. Since I received this new range I haven't stopped dreaming of combinations for cushions, upholstered furniture...etc. TDC - What plans do you have for the future? These are exciting times for the Portuguese design world! We're keeping our eyes open to discover new collaborations and brands - specifically the ones with innovative ideas. For instance, just recently we came across a start up design studio, supported by a major cork company, who has developed a new cork fibre for rugs. So we plan to expand our range with new brands but also continue the collaborations with our existing suppliers with new additions to our collection - for example, we're working on new upholstered furniture pieces with Burel. The new fabrics are a source inspiration! With our fast expanding range, we are planning to open a new showroom!
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