Product Design as Cultural Narrative and Sustainable Craft<\/h3>\n
MACHEIA<\/span><\/strong><\/a> is a Lisbon-based design studio founded in 2020 by Italian-German designer Lucrezia Papillo<\/strong> and Mozambican-Portuguese architect<\/span> Iany Gayo<\/strong>. Drawing on their diverse industrial design and architecture backgrounds, the duo created a studio focused on blending product design<\/a>, traditional craft, and cultural storytelling.<\/span><\/p>\n The name <\/span>MACHEIA<\/span><\/em> comes from a term that refers to a handful\u2014symbolizing the centrality of manual work<\/strong> and the tactile nature of the studio\u2019s approach. Their work celebrates the continuity of ancestral knowledge<\/strong> through contemporary interpretations,<\/strong> producing handcrafted home objects that connect past and present.<\/span><\/p>\n Working with natural fibers and ancient weaving techniques, MACHEIA aims to preserve and renew Portugal\u2019s craft heritage while building a future for <\/span>sustainable design<\/strong> rooted in cultural identity.<\/span><\/p>\n A key project that defines the studio\u2019s philosophy is the <\/span>Bulrush Collection<\/span><\/em><\/a>, which revives the endangered Portuguese weaving technique<\/strong> known as <\/span>Bunho<\/span><\/em>. This complex method uses Schoenoplectus Palla\u2014known as bulrush or <\/span>giunco<\/span><\/em>\u2014to create intricate woven forms with cultural and aesthetic value. As a matter of fact, o<\/span>nly two European artisans still practice this technique, including master weaver Manuel Ferreira<\/strong>, with whom MACHEIA collaborates closely. Combining the traditional <\/span>Bunho<\/span><\/em> spiral motif with custom metal structures, the collection reimagines craft as sculptural, tactile, and modern.<\/span><\/p>\n A standout piece in the <\/span>Bulrush Collection<\/span><\/em> is <\/span>Assento<\/span><\/em><\/a>, a hybrid between a stool and a side table. Its design <\/span>is inspired<\/span> by the <\/span>Tanho<\/span><\/em>, one of the most iconic patterns of the <\/span>Bunho<\/span><\/em> technique.<\/span><\/p>\n Assento features a spiral of bulrush rising from a minimalist steel arc. It cradles the woven form, creating a visual and material dialogue between metal and fiber. The organic shape evokes freedom from the spiral\u2019s tight rhythm, offering comfort and sculptural beauty.<\/span><\/p>\n Sustainability drives MACHEIA\u2019s design process. Materials are local, primarily from Portugal\u2019s wetlands, with bulrush harvested annually in Santar\u00e9m. In summer, the bulrush sundries using traditional techniques.<\/p>\n This approach <\/span>ensures low environmental impact, supports local communities, and extends the lifespan of techniques at risk of extinction.<\/span><\/p>\n In May 2025, MACHEIA will participate in the third edition of <\/span>Lisbon Design Week<\/span><\/a><\/strong>, a five-day celebration of creativity, high craft, and design from May 28 to June 1<\/strong> across various venues in Lisbon.<\/strong> The event brings together Portuguese and international designers, artists, and craftspeople. It offers exhibitions, talks, and product launches that highlight Portugal\u2019s rich tapestry of contemporary design.<\/span><\/p>\n MACHEIA uses product design as a reflection, continuity, and transformation tool. Their work has been featured in international exhibitions and design fairs, drawing attention to the value of artisanal practices in <\/span>modern design contexts<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n Their collections are functional and poetic<\/strong>: each piece invite users to experience utility, meaning connection and cultural memory.<\/span><\/p>\n Go here to follow MACHEIA on Instagram ><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n Read similar articles on Hue&Eye Mag ><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\nA Studio Rooted in Tradition<\/span><\/h3>\n
The Bulrush Collection: Where Craft Meets Innovation<\/span><\/h3>\n
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Assento: Between Form and Function<\/span><\/h3>\n
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Local Production and Ecological Materials<\/span><\/h3>\n
MACHEIA at Lisbon Design Week 2025<\/span><\/h3>\n
MACHEIA\u2019s Vision for Contemporary Design<\/span><\/h3>\n
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