Claus Porto | Autumn 2016

In Autumn 2016, Studio Astolfi brought new life to the Claus Porto boutique in Lisbon’s historic Chiado district, crafting a poetic and immersive retail experience that celebrated the brand’s 130-year legacy. Known for its artisanal soaps and colognes infused with Portuguese botanicals, Claus Porto became the subject of a spatial reinterpretation rooted in memory, elegance, and storytelling.

Studio Astolfi’s design centered on preserving the soul of the original space—a former pharmacy—restoring its wooden display cabinets and ornate stucco ceilings while seamlessly integrating contemporary elements. At the heart of the boutique, a polished brass countertop reflects both the architecture and the flow of visitors, creating a luminous centerpiece that invites exploration.

Between the store’s two levels, an archival nook was created: a quiet museum-like chamber housing original Claus Porto photographs, documents, and historical objects displayed in bespoke brass-and-rosewood furniture. This moment of pause connects guests directly to the brand’s deep heritage.

Descending into the lower level reveals the Musgo Real area, a refined, barbershop-inspired space offering grooming services and quiet retreat. With thoughtful details like archive cabinets, a multifunctional unit by Joana Astolfi (combining sink, mini-bar, or vinyl player), and a marble stairwell, this level offers a tactile experience of luxury rooted in craftsmanship.

Outside, the seasonal shopfronts designed for Autumn 2016 play with the senses—evoking soap bubbles, autumnal tones, and whimsical compositions. These windows blur the line between product display and artistic installation, translating Claus Porto’s fragrances into visual poetry.

This project is a masterclass in sensory branding. Studio Astolfi’s design balances minimalist elegance with lush, nostalgic touches—transforming the store into a living narrative where architecture, archive, and artistry converge. It’s not merely a place to shop, but a space where Claus Porto’s story continues to unfold, one detail at a time.