In the heart of Lisbon, Casa Alta Interior Design is transforming spaces with a blend of creativity, cultural sensitivity, and bespoke craftsmanship. Erika de Carvalho Clifford, the creative designer and founder, leads this dynamic studio with a vision that caters to an international clientele. Her holistic approach to design, combined with a deep appreciation for Portuguese craftsmanship, sets Casa Alta apart in the competitive world of interior design.

Understanding a Global Clientele

Casa Alta’s unique selling point lies in its deep understanding of international clients. “We are very focused on the expat market, both residential and business,” says Clifford. This focus allows Casa Alta to offer a full turnkey service, managing every aspect of the project from concept to implementation. Clifford’s ability to navigate diverse cultural expectations and preferences ensures that each project is not only functional but also deeply personal and unique.

Holistic and Client-Centered Design

The design process at Casa Alta is comprehensive and client-centered. “Our creative process has a very holistic approach. We analyze the context, the client’s wishes and wants, and also the needs,” Clifford explains. This methodology ensures that every design reflects the client’s personality and lifestyle, creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional. “We focus on functionality, personality, and, of course, delivering something that is truly unique,” she adds.

A Decade of Design Excellence

Celebrating its tenth anniversary, Casa Alta has grown into a respected name in the interior design industry. Clifford reflects on this journey, noting the diverse range of clients and projects they have undertaken. “It’s always a box full of surprises, because we actually tend to communicate with clients from all over the world,” she says. This global perspective enriches Casa Alta’s designs, making each project a learning experience and an opportunity for creative growth.

A Revelation in Craftsmanship

A recent visit to the factories of Covet Group revealed the depth of craftsmanship behind the products that Casa Alta often incorporates into their designs. “What surprised me is how handmade everything is. I really wasn’t expecting that,” Clifford shares. The dedication and happiness of the artisans left a lasting impression. “It was really nice to see people happy in the factories,” she notes, highlighting the passion and care that go into each piece.

Combining Brands and Customization

Seeing all the brands of Covet Group together was another enlightening experience for Clifford. “It was very helpful to see how you can actually combine items from different brands into one concept and one space,” she says. This insight is timely, as Casa Alta is increasingly focusing on creating bespoke items for their clients. “We have a particular project coming up, which is a beautiful penthouse in Lisbon owned by Asian clients, and they require a lot of bespoke items,” Clifford explains. The possibilities opened up by Covet Group’s craftsmanship are set to play a crucial role in this and future projects.

Inspired by People

Clifford’s primary source of inspiration is her clients. “I really relish meeting new people and understanding new needs and wants,” she says. This human-centric approach ensures that every design project is unique, tailored to the specific desires and lifestyles of the clients. “We are inspired by people,” she emphasizes, reflecting Casa Alta’s commitment to creating personalized, meaningful spaces.

Promoting Portuguese Design

Clifford is an ardent advocate for Portuguese design. “Portuguese design is wonderful. I really want the whole world to know about Portuguese design because you guys really deserve to be well known everywhere,” she asserts. The sustainability and local craftsmanship of Portuguese products are significant advantages for her clients, who appreciate sourcing handmade, locally-produced items. “Most of our clients who are coming to Portugal want Portuguese design,” she adds.

A Love for Porto

With a collaborator based in Porto, Casa Alta frequently engages with this vibrant city. “I love Porto. It’s a great vibe, very different from Lisbon,” Clifford shares. Her affection for Porto extends to its people, food, and unique atmosphere. “You guys are super friendly, and the food is amazing, the sky is great,” she concludes.

Under Erika de Carvalho Clifford’s leadership, Casa Alta Interior Design continues to thrive by embracing global influences, prioritizing client relationships, and celebrating the rich tradition of Portuguese craftsmanship. As the studio enters its second decade, it remains committed to delivering unique, functional, and beautifully crafted spaces that tell the stories of its diverse clientele.

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