What is PORTORO all about?
PORTORO is a design consultancy that takes a personal approach to creating and curating interior spaces. We make it a point to listen to our clients, to know them better in order to weave their personalities and individual aesthetics into the overall design, making the space truly their own. At the same time, we enable them to make informed choices about the materials and objects to be used for their spaces, giving them the experience of working with master artisans whose work will add an elegant accent to their homes or offices.
How do you choose the products you offer online?
By traveling as well as meeting artisans and artists. Whenever I buy an objet d’art or a home accent, I visualize the different ways my clients can present them in their homes. My own collections are timeless, and I strive to offer my clients the same privilege.
You are half-French and half-Swiss; you lived in Germany and now in Asia. How has this mix of heritage and homes influenced your personal aesthetic or style?
My style has ‘grown’ with every culture I’ve experienced. I lived in Shanghai for many years and this gave me the opportunity to discover different Asian cultures, to explore craftsmanship, and to learn how different materials are used. When I lived in Hamburg, though, I was closer to Scandinavian design. Every place has different resources and, thus, different skills, artisans, and standards of craftsmanship. The high quality, elegance, and accurate selection have always been a fil rouge (Fr. Idiomatic: guiding concepts) and these still drive how I select items and concepts for PORTORO.
Do you work primarily with European designers and artisans?
European design – particularly Italian and French – is my focus and main source of inspiration. But my objects come from around the world, specifically from places I have visited and those I have a special connection to.
Which is your favorite room at home and are there any pieces of furniture or decorative objects you are particularly fond of?
Every room is unique and has its own best points. My walk-in closet which exudes calmness and refinement is a very private space: I’ve put so much effort into it and it’s actually where I like to spend a quiet moment choosing my clothes and getting dressed. I especially like our Ludwig Mies van der Rohe Barcelona Couch in a customized brown chocolate leather, which is perfect for packing for a long trip. A few memorable items are placed on the island: like a black marquina marble table lamp by the French artist Gilles Caffier, as well as a limited edition clear and frosted glass box from Alessandro Mandruzzato that my husband and I bought on our first trip together to Florence. I collect Bulgari jewellery books and those are placed next to a beautiful brass statue from Filipino National Artist Ramon Orlina. We collected all these items from around the world and they bring up wonderful memories.
