- Client Portrait Series - Armando Graziano
A Lisbon Terrace Reimagined
This project began with a simple desire: to make a terrace not just functional, but truly inviting. Our client—a long-time Lisbon resident with Italian roots had a clear vision. After years of living in spaces without outdoor access, he knew that a welcoming exterior would be central to his new home.
In this portrait, we speak with him about his inspirations, from Moroccan gardens to sunlit apéros with friends, and about the design journey that turned a simple outdoor space into a soulful extension of his lifestyle. His story is one of intention, warmth, and a strong love of hospitality—values we deeply share.
Our client Armando - Photos courtesy of Studio Bisson
1. Can you introduce yourself?
Hello there, I am Armando, I’m a 39 years old Italian and I have lived in Lisbon on and off around 12 years. I have a Ph.D in Maritime Affairs, and I work in the area of Maritime Safety. I am an avid reader, amateur baker, sporty, and deep down a wannabe surfer.
2. What brought you to Lisbon?
In 2012, right after my Master Degree, I was called to be a trainee for an International Organization here in Lisbon. I still recall the rainy morning I came out of the metro in Baixa. I was mesmerized by the city, by the smell of chestnuts in the street, by the decadent yet authentic buildings, by the absence of all those elements that were becoming so common in all European capitals. Lisbon had still its own personality, the charisma of a city that did not conform with the rest. In a couple of hours, it had picked me up.
3. Can you describe the vision or goals you had for your home before starting this project?
I had the idea of renovating the terrace since the beginning. During COVID, I was renting an apartment where I had no balcony nor terrace. Having an exterior space was a major factor in deciding the apartment I ended up buying. I guess my vision/goal for the project was to make it more livable and enjoyable for me and my friends.
Dining area - Photos courtesy of Studio Bisson
4. How did you envision your ideal living space, and how did that evolve throughout the design process??
Spending some weeks in Morocco, made me appreciate some of the stylistic and design choices they have for their gardens. I fell in love with the earth tones of the walls, the intricate pattern of the azulejos, the details emerald green, and amber yellow. Besides the design inspiration from Morocco, a more pragmatic idea was to make the terrace even more apt to host people. This idea evolved through the identification of the right furniture and where to place them, by designing a comfortable living area, yet maintaining a functional and cozy dining area.
5. What specific challenges or requirements did you have for the design of your home?
To be honest, the only main requirement was to make the terrace more livable and accessible, so that you could really feel enticed to spend time outdoor, whether it would be to sunbathe, host an aperitivo, or just reading a book. All things that were not as straightforward before.
Lounge area - Photos courtesy of Studio Bisson
6. Can you share any memorable moments or highlights from the design and implementation phases?
I genuinely enjoyed the entire process, from selecting various layouts on paper and choosing different tiles and colors, to the construction itself. It was such a lovely experience that it even made me consider renovating other parts of the apartment
Details - Photo courtesy of Studio Bisson
7. Can you share a bit about your lifestyle and how that influenced the design choices for your home?
I believe the most influential aspect of my personality and lifestyle that shaped some of my design choices is my love for hosting people. Whether it’s during the summer or on a sunny day, I enjoy having guests on my terrace. Previously, we were always cramped in a corner with a tiny couch, trying to make ourselves comfortable. The idea of now having a built-in bench that can seat up to eight people is simply exquisite.
8. Are there any specific design choices or details that hold special significance for you?
I love the colors we chose, the entire Arabesque vibe, and all the furniture we selected!
Our client Armando & the interior designer Ines - Photos courtesy of Studio Bisson
9. What advice would you give to others considering a similar home renovation or design project?
Despite all the planning, there’s always something you didn’t anticipate. The most important thing is to have a designer who accompanies you throughout the process, offering practical and stylistic advice.
10. Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently or any lessons learned from the experience?
I have no regrets at all. I’m very pleased with the results.
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