On the cusp of its 100th anniversary, the esteemed Portuguese beauty brand Benamôr has unveiled a stunning new flagship store in Lisbon’s historic Chiado district. This latest addition to their portfolio of nine stores, designed once again by LADO Arquitectura e Design, seamlessly blends architectural heritage with contemporary design, creating a retail experience that is both timeless and dynamic.
Located in the heart of Lisbon’s prime shopping area, renowned for its cosmopolitan charm, the store occupies the ground floor of an early 18th-century building. Within its 80 square meters, the design team has masterfully preserved key architectural features, most notably the original vaulted ceilings, creating a dialogue between the building’s rich history and Benamôr’s forward-looking vision.
LADO’s design evokes the atmosphere of traditional apothecaries, a fitting reference for a beauty brand with such a long history. However, this nostalgic nod is tempered with a distinctly minimalist aesthetic. Walls and ceilings are finished in a light green Venetian stucco, providing a neutral yet warm backdrop that allows the products and other design elements to truly shine.
A carefully curated palette of light green, dark greens, black, and white is further enhanced by a meticulous selection of textures and materials. Natural wood and stone play a prominent role, adding a sense of authenticity and craftsmanship. At the heart of the space, custom-designed tables crafted from Estremoz marble act as sculptural focal points, inviting customers to interact with Benamôr’s products.
The material palette reinforces the store’s narrative, skillfully blending artisanal craftsmanship with modern precision. The floor is adorned with black and white encaustic cement tiles, showcasing a delicate geometric floral motif that infuses the space with a touch of classic elegance. Freestanding and built-in furniture elements, crafted from natural oak and MDF lacquered in light and dark greens, create a harmonious balance of warmth and sophistication.
Countertops and display tables sculpted from natural Estremoz marble exude an air of timeless elegance and durability. The light green Venetian stucco on the walls and ceilings adds a subtle texture, enhancing the overall warmth of the environment. This thoughtful choice of materials contributes to a cohesive aesthetic that invites customers to explore.
A particularly striking feature is the white ceramic wall tiles near the entrance, adorned with a hand-painted rendition of Benamôr’s logo, beautifully merging artistry with branding. Additionally, strategically placed ribbed glass and mirrors diffuse light throughout the space, visually expanding it and creating a sense of openness and airiness that enhances the shopping experience.
The design thoughtfully invites visitors to experience Benamôr’s rich history through the physical environment. Near the entrance, a dedicated “narrative wall” recounts the brand’s nearly century-long journey, providing context and depth to the retail experience.
The combination of the building’s original architectural features and the modern layout fosters a sense of discovery, transforming the act of shopping into a journey through time and design. The Benamôr flagship store in Chiado is more than just a retail space; it is a celebration of the fusion of tradition, architecture, and design, a testament to the enduring power of beauty and heritage.