On display: flagship stores unveil Wewood’s timeless handcrafted furniture

For over a decade, Portuguese furniture manufacturer Wewood has collaborated directly with architects and interior designers, both in their homeland and internationally. Professionals benefit from a service that puts high-quality joinery, durable production and human contact at the forefront. Such close interaction with clients has been especially evident in recent years, with Wewood launching its own flagship stores; the first opened its doors in Porto in May 2022, while the second is about to make its debut in Portugal’s bustling capital, Lisbon.

The company’s workshop has long been located in the small town of Gandra, just outside Porto. After successfully establishing their brand internationally within the B2B market, the team was eager to venture into the retail market. And what better place to start than close to home? ‘The decision to start in Porto was strategic and linked to the possibility of testing all the new retail processes, as well as to be close to the factory where we have our team in order to handle production and logistics,’ explains Wewood’s Marketing Manager Ana Gomes. ‘It’s been a challenge since the local market for high-end furniture in Porto isn’t that developed. However, it has also given us pleasant surprises, with both expats and the Porto audience providing great feedback and buying our furniture.’

Wewood’s newly appointed creative director, architect Joana Marcelino, carried out the interior concept of the two new spaces. ‘For the Lisbon store, we are working on something very exclusive, combining materials and tones to bring about a soft sensorial experience. Nothing goes unnoticed, yet you will never feel overwhelmed with information. It will be quiet, yet very tactile,’ says Gomes. The interior design of the Porto store, meanwhile, is an excellent representation of how the architect plays with light, surfaces and colours to create bright, open spaces and dim, intimate corners. Overall, both thoughtfully designed spaces, featuring Wewood furniture and complemented by lighting fixtures, rugs and accessories, showcase the brand’s holistic approach to interiors.

‘Lisbon is coming up and, who knows, perhaps Paris will be next,’ reveals Gomes, confirming Wewood’s ambition and international outlook. 

© Architonic

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