Restoration in Sintra, Portugal

This former monastery in Sintra, Portugal was re-configured by Portuguese designer Senora Graca. What a masterful design job. Her client was looking for a vacation home just outside Lisbon and Graca found just the site. Interesting frescoes (some original) throughout the house and views of the Atlantic from a spectacular pool and pavilion. What a pleasure to visit Sintra; truly one of the most serene villages of Europe with some of the most beautiful homes I have seen in my travels.The original monestary from the side entrance.

Decorative Arts Center, Lisbon, Portugal

In my travels, I am always amazed at how many art foundations and institutions are doing major work to save some of the world's most beautiful examples of a country's Decorative Art.

The work of the Decorative Arts Center in Lisbon is amazing. A team of artisans are repairing and saving some of the most precious Portuguese decorative artifacts. Housed in and around this former mansion, the work is tireless as they employ ancients crafts to save these pieces.

Portuguese Needlepoint Rugs

What a delight to meet Malu Futcher Pereija in Lisbon. She and her son have the most colorful rugs based on historic designs with intricate floral patterns and geometrics. The company name is Portuguese Eclectic you can fax for more iformation to 011-351-21-342-7651.