When I returned from Chicago I initially opened my workshop in Lisbon in a small attic in the Alfama neighbourhood. Two years later, I moved back to Porto to set up my workshop in an old barrel maker's workshop. It is a great environment to develop my work.

For sure, it has an impact. For instance, finding myself in a traditional barrel maker area in Porto inspired me to create a new collection called Matéria where my pieces are made of three local materials – chestnut, oak and cork. I contribute to upholding woodwork heritage in this way.

At the Ricardo Espirito Santo Silva foundation, I was trained by incredible masters and learnt all the general cabinetmaking skills but I developed a special interest in handmade joinery and inlay work, which are both part of Portugal’s woodworking heritage.

The freedom to control and understand the whole process, from designing to making. I also invent my own finishing recipes. With know-how, you can experiment, and explore different paths. Cabinetmaking enables me to constantly question myself and improve.