A New Era for Lisbon’s Pastéis de Belém by Viterbo

The legendary Pastéis de Belém, a Lisbon institution since 1837, has entered a new chapter through the creative vision of Gracinha Viterbo and her team at Viterbo Interior Design Ateliers. The project introduces a refined retail space adjacent to the original bakery, thoughtfully designed to accommodate the growing influx of visitors eager to taste Portugal’s most famous pastry.

A Contemporary Tribute to Portuguese Tradition

In this redesign, Viterbo Interior Design Ateliers achieves a delicate harmony between authenticity and innovation. The new space celebrates the artisanal soul of Portuguese culture through natural materials such as light oak, handcrafted tiles, and textured lime plaster walls. Each detail was selected to evoke the warm and golden tones of Lisbon’s afternoon light, creating a sensory connection between the city and its culinary icon.

Design that Enhances Flow and Experience

Every element of the layout was carefully studied to optimize visitor flow and preserve the bakery’s intimate charm. The space balances nostalgia and novelty, allowing guests to enjoy smoother service while remaining visually linked to the historic interiors next door. The design reflects Gracinha Viterbo’s talent for blending tradition with modern functionality, resulting in an atmosphere that feels both familiar and freshly invigorated.

Material Poetry and Subtle Sophistication

Attention to detail defines the project’s material palette. Bespoke counters, shelving, and brass inlays subtly reference the brand’s blue-and-white identity. These tones, reinterpreted in contemporary textures, give the bakery a renewed aesthetic without compromising its historical essence. The lighting strategy enhances textures and craftsmanship, echoing the softness of daylight over Lisbon’s tiled façades.

Beyond Aesthetics: Design as Emotion

True to the Viterbo ethos, the project transforms design into a medium of emotion and storytelling. Each surface and proportion invites sensory engagement, turning a visit to Pastéis de Belém into an experience of connection and memory. The studio’s philosophy—rooted in craftsmanship and cultural pride—infuses the space with a sense of belonging. This new retail area also anticipates the 2026 full redesign of the flagship store, which will continue Gracinha Viterbo’s vision of honoring Portugal’s heritage through a global design language.