Nestled in an 18th-century Pombaline building in Lisbon’s iconic Largo do Chiado, the Portugal Jewels Chiado boutique is a masterclass in balancing historical reverence with modern elegance. Designed by LADO Arquitectura e Design, this 40 m² space was once home to the legendary Barbearia Campos, a barbershop that catered to Lisbon’s cultural elite, including poet Fernando Pessoa and writer Eça de Queiroz. Today, it has been meticulously transformed into a jewellery boutique celebrating Portuguese goldsmithery and filigree craftsmanship, while preserving its rich narrative.
The design approach was one of respectful intervention rather than radical reinvention. The architects sought to enhance the space’s historical character, retaining its original decorative elements while introducing subtle contemporary contrasts. The most striking intervention is concentrated on the right-hand wall, where a custom-designed Klein blue showcase system and service counter create a bold yet harmonious juxtaposition against the aged patina of the original structure.
This blue intervention extends beyond the cabinetry, casting a soft chromatic filter across the space. The ceiling, carpentry, and even a self-adhesive film applied to the original mirrors contribute to a gradient effect, seamlessly blending old and new. The flooring, too, was reconsidered—part of the original encaustic tiles were replaced with identical patterns in tonal blue, sourced from the same historic manufacturer, ensuring continuity while introducing a fresh aesthetic.
On the opposite side of the boutique, the legacy of Barbearia Campos remains vividly present. The original barber’s bench and six wall mirrors still stand, now reflecting not just the space but its layered history—now gently tinted blue. Two of the barber’s chairs have been repurposed as seating, merging the past’s grooming rituals with today’s acts of self-adornment.
Portugal Jewels Chiado is more than a retail space—it’s a dialogue between eras. LADO Arquitectura e Design has crafted an environment where Lisbon’s cultural heritage and contemporary jewellery design coexist in perfect harmony. The result is a boutique that feels both timeless and of-the-moment, inviting visitors to engage with Portuguese craftsmanship in a setting that honors its storied past.
For those seeking architectural innovation rooted in historical preservation, this project stands as a testament to how adaptive reuse can breathe new life into cherished spaces without erasing their soul.