Viterbo Interior Design

A fusion of tradition and modernity Ateliers has unveiled a newly designed retail space for Pastéis de Belém, one of Lisbon’s most iconic bakeries established in 1837. Located adjacent to the historic original shop, the new space was created to accommodate the growing number of visitors who come from all over the world to experience the renowned Portuguese custard tarts. Designed by internationally acclaimed interior designer Gracinha Viterbo, the space blends timeless elegance with contemporary sensitivity, paying tribute to the brand’s longstanding heritage and identity.

Photo credit:
Viterbo Interior Design Ateliers- Photo: Francisco Almeida Dias

The new interior expresses the artisanal spirit of Portuguese tradition through a carefully curated palette of materials—light oak wood, handcrafted tiles, and textured lime plaster walls—creating an environment that is warm, authentic, and enduring. The lighting design evokes the soft glow of Lisbon’s afternoon light, while highlighting the refined craftsmanship present throughout the space. The layout has been thoughtfully planned to optimize circulation, allowing visitors to enjoy a smooth and engaging experience as they purchase their pastries and coffee. 

The design builds a subtle yet impactful dialogue between eras—connecting the charm of the past with the creative energy of the present. Every element in the space reflects attention to detail: custom-designed counters and shelves combine functionality with elegance, while discreet brass accents add a layer of refinement without overpowering the natural materials. The brand’s iconic blue and white palette is reimagined in modern textures and patterns, maintaining the essence of the original while revealing a refreshed identity.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the project embodies Viterbo’s core philosophy—design as emotion, storytelling, and human connection. Each surface and proportion is crafted to engage the senses, transforming a simple visit to Pastéis de Belém into a memorable experience of belonging and discovery. The studio’s broader vision is to elevate Portuguese heritage through contemporary craftsmanship and a timeless design language. This new retail area also serves as a preview of the future. In 2026, Viterbo Interior Design Ateliers will oversee the complete redesign of the flagship store. This upcoming project will reinterpret the legacy of the brand while creating an environment that resonates with a global audience. The redesign aims to preserve the original shop’s authenticity while enhancing its spatial coherence, functionality, and integration with the newly opened space. By merging tradition with modernity, the project honors Portuguese craftsmanship through refined materials, bespoke detailing, and an atmosphere that enriches the customer experience—safeguarding the soul of one of Portugal’s most treasured cultural landmarks.

Photo credit:
Viterbo Interior Design Ateliers- Photo: Francisco Almeida Dias

About Viterbo Interior Design Ateliers

Founded in Lisbon in 1979, Viterbo Interior Design Ateliers is a second-generation, family-run studio known internationally for its bespoke high-end interiors. Guided by the creative direction of Gracinha Viterbo and the strategic leadership of her husband Miguel Vieira da Rocha, the studio is celebrated for its ability to blend craftsmanship, emotion, and timeless aesthetics into deeply personal and enduring spaces. Recognized as a master of style, Gracinha Viterbo has the rare ability to reinterpret each project according to its geographic location, architectural context, surrounding landscape, and client’s lifestyle. Her work transcends trends, turning diverse environments—from historic villas to contemporary urban homes—into spaces with authenticity, soul, and a strong sense of place. With a legacy spanning over four decades, the studio has established itself as a benchmark in Portuguese design and craftsmanship, with projects across Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. Each project tells a unique story—where heritage meets innovation and tradition is elevated through modern design. Renowned for its turnkey approach, the studio handles every stage of a project—from concept and technical planning to final installation—ensuring coherence and quality throughout. With its meticulous attention to detail, Viterbo continues to redefine the essence of modern luxury, creating soulful, human-centered environments that celebrate art, culture, Portuguese identity, and the beauty of craftsmanship.