Future Talks by RTF is delighted to present a conversation with one of the most distinguished pioneers in the field, the visionary creator behind the Rita Valadão Architecture and Interior Design Atelier in Lisbon.
A graduate of the renowned School of Decorative Arts in Lisbon, Rita Valadão’s journey in the realm of architecture and interior design has been nothing short of remarkable. Her creative spirit, unwavering dedication, and exceptional talent have propelled her to the forefront of the industry.
Rita Valadão’s atelier is a place where design stories come to life. Over the years, it has earned its reputation for securing and executing significant and high-profile projects. At the heart of her architectural language lies a distinct, contemporary, and coherent vision, reflected in every space she meticulously crafts.
The essence of an RV interior is a harmonious blend of different volumes, the play of natural light, and the use of authentic materials such as wood, stone, steel, and glass. But Rita’s genius goes beyond mere structural aesthetics. She places profound importance on the role of colors and textures, using them to breathe life, personality, distinctiveness, and purpose into her creations. Every project, in Rita’s eyes, is a work of art, a testament to her dedication and artistry.
What truly sets her work apart is her commitment to creating eclectic interiors that seamlessly weave together international designer furniture with pieces crafted by the talented artisans of her local community. This unique blend adds a rich and dynamic dimension to her designs, making them not just spaces but immersive experiences.
Since 2014, Rita Valadão’s journey in interior design has been marked by collaborations with a passionate and talented team on various residential and commercial projects. These collaborations have earned her and her team numerous national and international awards, a testament to their excellence and creativity in the world of interior design. These accolades have firmly established her as a renowned professional in the industry, and she continues to push the boundaries, consistently delivering innovation and uncompromising quality in every project they undertake.
So, join us as we embark on this exciting journey through the world of design with Rita Valadão, a luminary whose work transcends the boundaries of architecture and interior design. “Future Talks by RTF” promises an insightful conversation with this creative force, where we delve into the mind of a visionary, exploring the inspirations, techniques, and philosophies that have shaped her remarkable career. Get ready to be inspired, educated, and entranced by the design stories brought to life by Rita Valadão.
RTF: Hi Rita, We are glad to have you as a guest on Future Talks by RTF. Thanks for joining us. How would you highlight the importance of constantly evolving in design? How do you look at it in your work since you began?
Rita: Constantly evolving in design is paramount. As design trends, materials, and technologies undergo continuous transformation, it is imperative to remain current. Throughout my career, I have consistently made an effort to participate in workshops, stay abreast of design publications, and cultivate connections with fellow designers. This commitment ensures that my work remains fresh and relevant in a dynamic industry.
RTF: What is your idea of finding one’s own design voice in a world full of ideas?
Rita: In a world full of ideas, finding one’s own design voice requires self-discovery and experimentation. I believe it’s essential to draw inspiration from various sources but always infuse your unique perspective into your work. This distinctiveness sets you apart in a crowded design landscape.
RTF: What is the process of establishing a common ground when dealing with a client’s demands and your own ideas? How important do you consider ‘The Art of Persuasion’ for designers?
Rita: Establishing a common ground with clients hinges on effective communication and adept negotiation. It is of paramount importance to attentively listen to the client’s needs and desires, while gently guiding them towards ideas that align with your design expertise. The art of persuasion is pivotal in this process, but it should always be executed with the utmost respect for the client’s vision.
RTF: How important is being creatively bolstered in the realm of design? How do you define the flow of creativity?
Rita: Creativity is the lifeblood of design. Remaining open to novel ideas and experiences is indispensable, and continually seeking inspiration from diverse sources is key. The flow of creativity often emanates from a profound understanding of the project and the ability to interconnect seemingly unrelated concepts.
RTF: What are your views on working collaboratively? How exciting and challenging it is at the same time?
Rita: Collaboration in design is a thrilling and challenging endeavor. Its excitement arises from the diverse perspectives it brings to the table, culminating in more innovative solutions. However, the challenge lies in finding common ground and inculcating effective communication to ensure that the ideas of all parties are given due consideration.
RTF: In your experience of 10 years working on interior design, how do you look at the progression of design and how has social media impacted it in recent years?
Rita: Over the span of a decade, I have witnessed a significant evolution in the field of interior design. Social media has played an instrumental role in this transformation by providing a platform to exhibit work and connect with a global audience. It has ushered in a more egalitarian design landscape, with trends evolving at an accelerated pace due to the ease of sharing and discovering ideas.
RTF: Who has been your inspiration throughout your journey as an interior designer?
Rita: My inspirations have emanated from a multifarious array of sources, including acclaimed designers, the wonders of nature, my travel experiences, and the world of art. Maintaining an open mind and drawing inspiration from the kaleidoscope of the world around us is crucial.
- Oscar Niemeyer – Celebrated Brazilian architect known for his iconic works, including the buildings in Brasília and his bold architectural style.
- Le Corbusier – Influential French architect and designer who played a pivotal role in the development of modern architecture.
- Charles and Ray Eames: This iconic design duo from the United States, Charles and Ray Eames, made significant contributions to furniture design and post-war modern architecture. Their contributions include the famous Eames Lounge Chair and other innovative projects. I continue to hold a deep affection for that Lounge chair.
- Zaha Hadid: A visionary architect, famous for her innovative structures and fluid, unconventional forms.
- Philippe Starck: A French interior and industrial designer, recognized for his elegant and innovative furniture design.
- Kelly Wearstler: A renowned American interior designer, known for her luxurious and eclectic projects that incorporate unique design elements.
RTF: How do you approach getting your projects featured in publications? Do you manage the communications and PR in-house or have this outsourced to a PR and communications agency? Which approach do you think is better and why?
Rita: The approach to getting projects featured can be either in-house management of communications and PR or outsourcing to a specialized agency. In-house management provides greater control over the messaging but can be resource-intensive. Outsourcing to a PR agency offers expertise and a wider reach. The choice ultimately depends on available resources and objectives.
RTF: Can you share any challenges you’ve encountered in the process of getting your work published and how you overcame them? Are there any lessons you’ve learned over the years that have significantly improved your success in this area?
Rita: The journey to getting published can present a range of challenges, including competitive landscapes, the need to build a compelling portfolio, and mastering the art of effectively pitching your work. Over time, I have honed my skills in building relationships with editors and leveraging personal and professional networks to enhance exposure.
RTF: How would you describe your overall design philosophy or approach to design?
Rita: My design philosophy revolves around the creation of spaces that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also enduring and timeless. I place a strong emphasis on striking the delicate balance between form and function, often drawing from a plethora of design styles to cater to the unique requirements of each project.
RTF: How do you look at the work beyond designing for young designers, such as the likes of involvement in publishing, handling media and building an online presence?
Rita: Going beyond the realm of design, I am a strong advocate for the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences with emerging designers. My active engagement in publishing, media, and maintaining a robust online presence serves as a platform through which I can mentor and provide meaningful contributions to the design community.
RTF: Where does one find you when you’re not working?
Rita: My frequent journeys have turned into a chance to explore new places and get to know various locations, including hotels, restaurants, and the homes of friends who always inspire me. Museum visits have become an essential part of my journeys, especially when traveling with my husband, who is the owner of an art gallery in Lisbon, or simply unwinding in the comfort of my own home – reveling in the spaces I’ve meticulously crafted. The equilibrium between work and personal life is indispensable for maintaining a continuous flow of creativity and an enduring passion for design.
