Gonçalo Lopes Cardoso

Atelier Encaixe

Woodworker

©André Roma

Nurturing wood

Gonçalo is in his element when working with wood
His restored pieces preserve the wood and its memories
He uses his wood crafting techniques in diverse contexts

At Atelier Encaixe, Gonçalo Lopes Cardoso and his team ensure that all furniture parts fit perfectly together. Gonçalo first started restoring pieces after refining his woodcarving, carpentry and gilding techniques at the Fundação Ricardo do Espírito Santo Silva Arts and Crafts Institute and specialising in conservation and restoration. Holding an MBA degree and an entrepreneurship award, Gonçalo constantly expands his knowledge by exploring new materials and methods to create his own pieces. “Portugal has a long tradition with wooden furniture and the colonies exposed artisans to diverse wood types and colours.” The Portuguese Heroes furniture collection celebrates history while being a modern interpretation of this rich heritage.

Interview

©André Roma

©André Roma

How did you move from restoring to creating?: Before the wood, restoration is about preserving the memories of a piece and learning from the master who created it. After years of looking after pieces made by others, I felt ready to make my own, hoping that future artisans will also learn from my work.
What is the key to the success of your atelier?: Diversity, authenticity and respect for wood always. We restore pieces and make contemporary ones using the best woods and Portuguese ancestral techniques. Thinking out of the box, we have also made set designs for television and advertising campaigns.
Why did you decide to make your own natural products for wood?: If you respect wood, you need to nurture it. I wanted to create my own maintenance products with ingredients that serve the wood and our environment. I am happy that our products preserve the wood in iconic places like our parliament and national library.
How would you describe a well made wooden furniture piece?: When perfect symbiosis is achieved between the wood, the artisan and the client. When sufficient time is given to transforming the wood into a long lasting piece that will carry memories for future generations.

Gonçalo Lopes Cardoso is a master artisan: he began his career in 1994 and he started teaching in 2016