Viterbo Interior Design Ateliers was honored to be invited to design a new space for the world-renowned Pastéis de Belém (Portuguese egg tarts), a Lisbon institution since 1837.
This new retail area, located beside the original shop, was conceived to complement the historic space and respond to the ever-growing number of visitors who travel from around the world to experience this national treasure. Designed by Gracinha Viterbo, the project reflects her signature balance between timeless elegance and modern sensibility, while honoring the brand’s deep heritage and identity.
The new interior evokes the artisanal essence of Portuguese tradition, while introducing a contemporary architectural language that feels both familiar and refreshing. Light oak woods, handmade tiles, and textured lime plaster walls were combined to create a space that feels warm, authentic, and timeless. The lighting concept was carefully developed to highlight the craftsmanship of the finishes and to evoke the gentle glow of Lisbon’s afternoon light.
The layout was meticulously planned to optimize flow, ensuring visitors can enjoy a smoother experience as they purchase their pastries or coffee while remaining connected to the charm of the original space. The design creates a dialogue between eras — a conversation between the heritage of the past and the creativity of the present.
Attention to detail defines every corner: bespoke counters and shelving were designed to integrate functionality with beauty, while subtle brass accents add sophistication without overpowering the simplicity of the materials. The brand’s iconic blue and white tones are reinterpreted in contemporary textures and patterns, maintaining the soul of the original while expressing a renewed identity.
Beyond aesthetics, the project celebrates a philosophy deeply rooted in the Viterbo ethos — design as emotion, storytelling, and connection. Every surface and proportion was thought to engage the senses, transforming a visit to Pastéis de Belém into an experience of discovery and belonging. The project reflects the studio’s broader vision: to elevate Portuguese heritage through contemporary craftsmanship and timeless design language.
This new space also acts as a prelude to what’s to come. In 2026, Viterbo Interior Design Ateliers will lead the full redesign of the flagship store, a project that will reinterpret the brand’s legacy while creating an environment that speaks to a global audience. The forthcoming redesign aims to preserve the charm and authenticity of the original shop while enhancing its functionality, flow, and aesthetic coherence with the new retail space.
Blending tradition and modernity, the new space pays tribute to Portuguese craftsmanship through carefully curated materials, bespoke detailing, and an atmosphere that enhances the customer experience, all while safeguarding the essence of one of Portugal’s most beloved cultural landmarks.