The Spirit of Portugal
How to Recreate the Feeling at Home
Over the years, we’ve been to Portugal countless times to visit our ceramic and glass artisans and fell in love with the country. From the rolling hills lined with ancient grapevines to clifftop towns overlooking the sea and medieval walled towns bursting with heritage treasures—we were hooked. Each visit, we find small ways to capture the spirit of Portugal and bring it back with us. Read on to discover how we imbue its easy charm and relaxed elegance at home.
Start the day beautifully…
The rest has a knack for following suit. Bask in the freshness of the morning when everything—cup of coffee, baked goodies from the bakery, the perfume of blossoms warming in the sun—seems even more delicious. Beneath a canopy of blue sky, the possibilities of the day ahead are limitless.
Find unlikely places…
...to drag the table! The farther off the beaten path, the better. Don’t forget pretty linens—whether slightly rumpled from drying on the line or carefully pressed—they create a beautiful juxtaposition of rustic dining amid the verdure with intentional elegance. The effect is unfailingly romantic.
Create an oasis...
Any space that particularly inspires you (a favorite corner in your garden to a terrace with a certain view) can be transformed into a little haven to savor and soothe spirits. Style a special table to complement your setting and sink into your surroundings with something delicious to linger over—whether you are in the company of a good friend, good music, or a good book. It’s fabulous how a little effort goes such a long way!
Floaty dresses required…
Shoes are optional. Unfussy elegance makes guests feel simultaneously at ease and special, communicating at a glance that you are so glad they came.
Always have fresh flowers…
Use whatever vessels are at hand, from a cluster of colorful water glasses with handfuls of wildflowers to your favorite pair of statement vases with gorgeous arrangements. Add a sprig or herbs, blossoming branch or fruited twig plucked from the garden for an unexpected twist.
Light a million candles…
...that can be seen from space! When it comes to candlelight, there can never be too much. Clustering different sizes, shapes and heights of candles and vessels feels opulent and uncontrived, as if torn from the pages of a fairytale—and is the easiest way to conjure up an unforgettable evening.
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