Nelson De Araújo

Nelson de Araújo is a Portuguese designer born and raised in Viana do Castelo, whose practice brings together sculptural furniture, traditional craftsmanship, and an expressive approach to colour. He studied Product Design at Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo and developed his interest in furniture during an Erasmus placement at the University of Palermo in Italy. In 2017, he founded Nelson de Araújo Design, initially specialising in furniture development and 3D visualisation before expanding into his own collection of handcrafted pieces.

Nature provides a starting point for his work, informing organic silhouettes, rounded proportions, and combinations of colour that encourage a sense of warmth and ease. His designs explore the relationship between visual character and everyday comfort, treating furniture as something that participates in the memories and routines of a home. Araújo describes his approach as combining organic modernism with postmodern influences and a playful softness, while citing Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira’s restraint and sensitivity to form among his influences.

Portuguese craftsmanship is central to the studio’s production. Working closely with artisans in Paços de Ferreira, a region known for furniture making, Araújo draws on local expertise in woodwork and upholstery. His process moves from observation and sketches to digital modelling, material selection, and refinement with the craftspeople responsible for each piece. Attention to construction, tactile finishes, and durable materials supports his intention to create furniture that can remain part of a home for many years.

His Aurora armchair expresses this approach through flowing lines and generous curves, with velvet or bouclé upholstery accentuating its sculptural shape. Lupin explores a similarly rounded silhouette, combining a solid wood structure with soft upholstery and memory foam cushioning. Made to order in Portugal, these pieces connect playful proportions with practical comfort, giving seating a distinctive presence within an interior.

Araújo’s creative journey has been explored in interviews with Galerie Philia and LAK Gallery, where he discusses his relationship with nature, collaboration with local artisans, and the development of his furniture collections. These conversations reveal a practice grounded in curiosity and direct involvement in production, with an emphasis on how thoughtfully made objects can contribute to a more personal and considered living environment.

Nelson De Araújo’s complete catalog available upon request.