The designer of Terrakota Ceramic, Liliana Silva was born in Barcelos, in the north of Portugal. Let’s see what she tells us.

Her sustainable ceramic brand, Liliana combines heritage-worthy values ​​with a modern design aesthetic that reflects her Portuguese heritage, hence the slogan she chose: THE FUTURE OF THE PAST, CERAMIC WITH HISTORY.

Living in the north of Portugal, in the city of Esposende, Liliana tells us what she likes most and what makes her really happy.

What thing brightens your day…

The sun, during my morning walk.

What inspires your creations?

I am inspired by everything Portuguese, largely because I live in the north and am surrounded by many characteristic elements, they are certainly a good base of inspiration for my creations.

Popcorn, why?

There were several reasons for giving this name to some of my pieces, and there really is a reason, but I won’t say it, I have to keep some secrets.

Okay, so can you tell us how you describe your creative process?

Yes, as a basis, I try to surround myself with elements, places, and people that inspire me.

This past year I have been working with larger formats, because the scale and proportions of the pieces are something that challenge and fascinate me.

Therefore, as time goes by, I believe that I am managing to elevate my pieces to scales that were previously unusual, that transcending the rules and enriching the aesthetic. This in turn, provokes greater reflection for those who purchase them.

Changing a little now for your daily life, where should we go for breakfast?

In Esposende, i recommend “Marbela” pastry/food shop, where just the display of cakes, chocolates and pastries fills your belly.

And for a weekend brunch or lazy lunch?

During the summer season, i recommend “Barzin” on my beach, Cepães Beach, a very well decorated space with a menu rich in flavors.

And your favourite restaurant?

There are several, in my city of Barcelos, I recommend two, “Bagoeira” for those who like typical Portuguese food, or “Turismo“, a unique place, fantastic service and excellent food. Then, as I love fish, I always go to “O Buraco”, a restaurant that I frequent regularly and recommend to lovers of fresh fish and seafood.

And for dinner with friends?

Mercador Café & Brunch, right in downtown Porto, on Rua das Flores, a relaxed place, one of my favorites.

Your favorite drink to order at the bar…

In the summer, something cool, Mateus Rosé flute, in the winter, the most likely option will be an Irish Coffee.

The cultural place for you to get lost…

Firstly, home or garden in Fundação de Serralves, I love it, I can’t stay for long without going there. In Lisbon, the LX Factory and Príncipe Real.

Where do you recommend shopping?

I would immediately like to highlight a store that I love, FeelViana Store, a store inside a Sport Hotel in “Darque” where I often go with my husband. In Porto, the Fashion Clinic on Avenida da Boavista, in Lisbon, I always like to be surprised by the creations of “Lidija Kolovrat” in Príncipe Real.

What helps you with inspiration to create your works/pieces?

Traveling and music, but silence also helps me with concentration.

Your favourite neighbourhood(s)…

Rua do Almada which is very different, but especially Miguel Bombarda where I like to get lost among the various art galleries.

A good day trip includes…

For me, it has to be here in the north, visiting Viana do Castelo to eat a Bola de Berlin at “Natário” and going up a little to Carreço to visit the Chef. Thiago Moura “Kitanda Project” where good mood is the dish of the house, then go down the A28 to Matosinhos, walk along the waterfront to downtown Porto and take a stroll to the gardens of the Cristal Palace and finish with the sunset on the Base – Porto.

What’s your fav dress code?

Comfortable clothes, depending on the time of year, here in the north you always need a coat to dress up at night.

You in one word…

Shy.

Interview done by: J. Ferreira / 10.10.2024