Material care
Wood
Rattan (Manau)
Manau rattan (Calamus manan) is highly prized for its long, flexible and durable stems. Manau rattan grows abundantly in the rainforests of the Indonesian archipelago.
Features
Manau rattan has a smooth, shiny surface when polished. The texture is firm yet flexible, allowing it to be easily bent and shaped without breaking. The natural color ranges from light yellow to light brown. Over time it will develop a richer, darker patina.
Maintenance
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Treatment for weather and rot resistance is necessary.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap and avoid excessive moisture as rattan can be sensitive to water.
Glow
Suar (Samanea saman) is a hardwood introduced to Southeast Asia as a plantation tree by Portuguese colonists in the mid-19th century.
Features
Suar develops a deeper and richer color over time when exposed to light. Suar wood always varies in tone, color and pattern. Wood is a living material that expands and contracts, causing cracks and knots to form. We take steps during shipping and in our warehouse to dry and coat suar wood items, but it can still hold moisture deep inside which can seep out over time.
Maintenance
It is recommended to treat the product annually with a protective oil, this will also bring the colour back to life.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Not recommended for extremely dry climates or changes in humidity.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For a deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap, but do not soak the wood to prevent damage.
Teak
Teak (Tectona grandis) is a tropical hardwood native to Southeast Asia, particularly India, Indonesia, Thailand and Myanmar
Features
It has yellowish, straight-grained heartwood and whitish to yellowish brown sapwood. If left untended, it will age to a beautiful silver-gray patina, especially when exposed to sunlight.
Maintenance
Regular oiling or sealing is required to maintain the original color.
Teak is naturally weather resistant and suitable for outdoor use.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap, but do not soak the wood.
Teak is naturally resistant to moisture, but it is best to store it in a dry environment to prevent warping.
Teak branch
Teak branch refers to a smaller piece of wood that is part of the tree's branching structure. It can vary in shape and size.
Properties
Teak branch is lighter in color, has more variation in color and knots, has an uneven grain, and has less shine because it contains slightly less natural oils than solid teak. It tends to warp and split more easily. If left unmaintained, it will age to a beautiful silver-gray patina, especially when exposed to sunlight
Maintenance
Treatment for resistance to weathering and rotting is necessary.
Regular oiling or sealing is required to maintain the original color.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap, but do not soak the wood.
Teak is naturally resistant to moisture, but it is best to store it in a dry environment to prevent warping.
Weaving
Abaca grass
Abaca (Musa textilis), also known as Manila hemp, is a type of banana native to the Philippines and is commonly harvested for its fibers to make ropes.
Features
The fibers are strong, coarse, and stiff, giving them a rough texture. Sailors have used Abaca cord on ships for centuries because of its durability and resistance to saltwater damage, making it ideal for outdoor furniture.
Maintenance
Treatment for rot resistance is necessary.
Abaca is naturally weather resistant and suitable for outdoor use.
You can steam abaca grass to restore its original shape, bringing back its natural shape and flexibility.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For a deeper clean, wipe it with a damp cloth, but do not soak it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Banana leaf
Banana leaves (Musa paradisiaca) are twisted, rolled or braided. After this process they are used for weaving.
Features
Smooth yet sturdy, banana leaves have a natural, slightly coarse feel due to the inherent fibers of the banana leaf. They are strong yet lightweight, suitable for delicate furniture designs and other decorative elements.
Maintenance
Treatment for resistance to weathering and rotting is necessary.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For a deeper clean, wipe it with a damp cloth, but do not soak it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Coconut fiber
Coconut fibers, also called coir, are natural fibers extracted from the outer shell of coconuts of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera).
Properties
Coir fibers are coarse and rough, providing a natural, rustic look. They are often used to make rope and twine because of their strength and resilience to salt water, or woven into mats, rugs, and carpets.
Maintenance
Coconut fibre is naturally weather resistant and suitable for outdoor use.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For thorough cleaning, use a damp cloth or sponge with mild soap.
Mendong grass
Mendong (Fimbristylis globulosa) is a species of water grass that grows abundantly in Java, Indonesia.
Features
Mendong fibers are coarse and stiff, with a rough texture. They can give a rustic look to furniture and other decorative elements.
Maintenance
Treatment for resistance to weathering and rotting is necessary.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
You can steam mendong grass to restore its original shape, bringing back its natural shape and flexibility.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For a deeper clean, wipe it with a damp cloth, but do not soak it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Raffia
Raffia (Raphia farinifera) is a palm tree native to the regions of Africa and Madagascar. However, it has been introduced and cultivated in Indonesia since the 19th century.
Features
Raffia fibers are soft, pliable, and slightly waxy. They have a natural, rustic look and are often used for weaving and wrapping in furniture making. Locally, raffia is used for agricultural purposes to tie vegetables and other floral arrangements.
Maintenance
Treatment for resistance to weathering and rotting is necessary.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
You can steam raffia to restore its original shape, bringing back its natural shape and flexibility.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth, but do not soak it as excessive moisture can weaken the fibers.
Rattan - Reed
Rattan (Calamus rotang), also called true rattan, grows abundantly in the rainforests of the Indonesian archipelago.
Features
Rattan has a smooth, shiny surface when polished. The texture is firm yet flexible, allowing it to be easily bent and shaped without breaking, and is therefore often used for weaving furniture and making lamps.
Maintenance
Treatment for resistance to weathering and rotting is necessary.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For a deeper clean, wipe it with a damp cloth, but do not soak it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Seagrass
Seagrass is a marine flowering plant found in shallow coastal waters in tropical and temperate seas. It plays a vital role in marine ecosystems and is often used in home decor for its natural, earthy aesthetic.
Properties
Seagrass fibers are smooth, flexible and slightly coarse. The material is sturdy and has a subtle sheen, giving furniture an organic, coastal look. Seagrass is often used for weaving baskets, rugs and storage solutions.
Maintenance
Because Seagrass is sensitive to moisture, it should be stored in dry or well-ventilated areas.
Recommended for indoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft brush or vacuum it with an attachment brush.
For a deeper clean, wipe gently with a damp cloth, but avoid excess water to prevent mold and mildew.
Sisal
Sisal (Agave sisalana) is a flowering plant native to southern Mexico, but widely cultivated and naturalized in many other countries.
Features
Sisal fibers are stiff, coarse and strong. They have a rough texture, which gives furniture a rustic and natural look and is often used for ropes, mats and lamps.
Maintenance
Treatment for resistance to weathering and rotting is necessary.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For a deeper clean, wipe it with a damp cloth, but do not soak it as too much moisture can cause damage.
Water hyacinth
Water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) is an aquatic plant native to Brazil that has now infected nearly every waterway in the world.
Properties
Water hyacinth fibres are soft and spongy with a coarse texture. They are lightweight and flexible and are often used for weaving furniture and give a natural look.
Maintenance
Treatment for resistance to weathering and rotting is necessary.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For a deeper clean, wipe it with a damp cloth, but do not soak it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Reed
Wicker is a sub-brand of Viro that produces synthetic wicker designed to mimic natural rattan, and is used for weaving in the making of lamps and furniture.
Features
Wicker has a smooth, consistent texture and is very durable, ideal for outdoor furniture. It is also naturally UV resistant.
Maintenance
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
If using outdoors, consider applying a protective sealant and cover or store during harsh weather to preserve its natural beauty.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
For a deeper clean, wipe it with a damp cloth, but do not soak it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Textile
Cotton
Cotton is obtained from the seeds of the cotton plant (Gossypium) and is one of the most widely used natural fibres in the world.
Features
Our naturally soft cotton fibres, produced in Indonesia or India, are ideal for interior upholstery, upholstery and other decorative elements.
Our cushions are hand-dyed, giving each individual item its own personality. Small colour deviations should not be considered a defect, but a distinguishing feature of the product.
Maintenance
Hand wash in cold water to prevent shrinkage or damage.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Not weather resistant.
Fabric (Sunbrella)
Sunbrella fabric is a brand of high-quality outdoor fabric known for its durability and resistance to various environmental elements.
Features
Sunbrella is often used for cushions and upholstery of outdoor furniture because of its weather-resistant properties.
Maintenance
Sunbrella is naturally weather resistant and suitable for outdoor use.
For a deeper clean, use a mild soap and water solution and apply with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
It is important to avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals as these can damage the fabric.
Jute
Jute is a natural fiber obtained from the bark of the jute plant (Corchorus).
Features
Jute fibers are typically coarse and have a distinctive rough texture, giving them a natural, rustic feel. It is often used to make eco-friendly bags, rugs, cushions, upholstery and other decorative items.
Maintenance
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Not weather resistant.
Keep it dry, as jute is sensitive to moisture. If it gets wet, air dry it immediately to prevent mold.
For stains, use a mild soap solution and dab with a damp cloth, without rubbing too hard.
Learn
Leather is a natural material made from the skins or hides of animals. It is processed by tanning to improve its durability and usability.
Features
Leather can range from very soft and supple to stiffer and firmer, depending on its thickness and workmanship. It is a popular choice for fashion items such as clothing and accessories, as well as furniture, including cushions and upholstery.
Maintenance
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Not weather resistant.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap and avoid getting the leather wet.
Ceramics
Ceramics
Our ceramics are proudly crafted in Portugal, known for its rich tradition of ceramic art. This heritage contributes to the unique designs and high-quality finishes of each piece.
Features
Ceramic is a broad term that refers to a wide variety of inorganic, non-metallic materials made from clay and other natural minerals, resulting in a hard and durable product.
Our handmade tableware may vary in colour. This is not a manufacturing defect, but a unique characteristic of the material and the manufacturing method.
The Comporta collection is made with a crackle glaze finish. This finish is known to show a different intensity of crackle on each item. These crackles are therefore part of the decoration of this collection.
Maintenance
Our ceramics are food safe, dishwasher safe and microwave safe, making them practical for everyday use.
They are also chip resistant, so they maintain their beauty even with regular use.
They are not ovenproof, so it is best not to use them in the oven.
Terracotta (Tableware)
Terracotta is a type of earthenware clay widely used in pottery and construction, derived from the natural red clay found in many regions, including Italy and China.
Features
Terracotta can vary in texture from smooth and polished to rough and rustic, depending on the finish and firing process. It is a popular material for both decorative pieces and practical objects such as pots, tiles and bowls.
Maintenance
It is microwave and oven safe, allowing for easy heating and cooking.
It is not dishwasher safe, so hand washing is recommended to maintain quality.
Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the surface.
Terracotta (Vases)
Terracotta is a type of earthenware clay widely used in pottery and construction, derived from the natural red clay found in many regions, including Italy and China.
Features
Terracotta can vary in texture from smooth and polished to rough and rustic, depending on the finish and firing process. It is a popular material for both decorative pieces and practical objects such as pots, tiles and bowls.
Maintenance
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the surface.
Terracotta vases should not be used outdoors in winter, as freezing temperatures can cause the material to crack or break.
Our terracotta vases are not waterproof, meaning they should not be used to hold water directly. Consider placing a smaller waterproof container inside the vase to protect it from moisture.
Stone
Lava stone
Lava stone, also called volcanic stone, is a natural material formed from solidified lava.
Features
It is prized for its durability, unique texture and natural heat resistance. Lava rock is often used for countertops, flooring and decorative pieces because of its ability to withstand high temperatures and its porous yet sturdy surface.
Maintenance
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution, taking care to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as these can damage the surface.
Although it is naturally heat resistant, it is best to avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on lava rock surfaces to preserve its appearance.
Marble
Marble is a natural stone valued for its elegance, unique veins and smooth surface.
Features
It has been used for centuries in everything from sculptures to architectural elements to countertops. While visually stunning, marble is a porous stone, making it somewhat susceptible to stains, scratches, and acids like citrus or vinegar.
Maintenance
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
Harsh chemicals and abrasive materials should be avoided as they can etch or scratch the marble.
Sandstone
Sandstone is a natural sedimentary rock known for its warm, earthy tones and textured surface.
Features
While sandstone is often used in flooring, wall cladding, and outdoor landscaping for its durability and natural beauty, it is also popular for small sculptures and home decor. Sandstone is relatively porous, meaning it can absorb liquids and is prone to staining if not properly sealed.
Our handmade sandstone sculptures combine natural beauty with artisanal skills. Each piece is carefully shaped by hand, preserving the unique properties of the stone. No two sculptures are exactly the same.
Maintenance
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
Avoid using water or harsh cleaning agents as sandstone is porous and can absorb moisture, leading to possible damage.