our story
As architects starting our practice between Porto and Vienna with studio8, we embarked on a project for a vegan restaurant. Our sustainable consciousness marked the moment when circularity became more than a concept; it became our mission.
As we searched for sustainable materials, the demolition of the site raised a critical question: how can we advocate for sustainability in our buildings if we overlook the environmental impact of demolition waste?
This sparked a paradigm shift in our thinking, inspiring us to transform demolition waste into new materials and integrate them back into the project’s lifecycle.
We are Luís Lima and Patrícia Gomes, founders of studio8, the architecture studio behind Matterpieces.
Join us on our journey, evolving from practicing architecture to creating a product that challenges conventional construction practices and inspires change.
We are Luís Lima and Patrícia Gomes, founders of studio8, the architecture studio behind Matterpieces.
Join us on our journey, evolving from practicing architecture to creating a product that challenges conventional construction practices and inspires change.
Our journey in the world of architecture has always been about challenging norms, experimenting, practicing ‘in situ’ and envisioning new possibilities. From our roots in Porto, Portugal, where we were part of a collective focused on sustainable and community-driven architectural interventions, to our years in Vienna, Austria, where our awareness of the environmental impact of our industry deepened, we’ve sought a path that could merge creativity with ecological responsibility.
Our passion for exploration led us to South America, where we documented geological formations that would later influence our material design. Returning to Portugal during the pandemic, we seized the opportunity to explore circular solutions.
Through experimentation in our terraces and garages, Matterpieces was born. We manually crafted mixtures and textures to enhance the value of demolition waste, creating pieces like countertops and tiles from the very waste generated by the construction process.
Yet, we realized that to truly make a substantial impact, we needed to scale up. This led us to start collaborating with various industry players, including demolition companies, waste management experts and material producers.
Our goal was clear: transform demolition waste into circular materials applicable to larger projects, thus changing the industry from within.
Motivated by a desire to contribute to a more sustainable future, we began this journey not only as architects but as individuals committed to positive change.
Our dedication to improving the industry, one circular innovation at a time, is guided by the values we hold close: creativity, responsibility, transparency, and the shared goal of building a better, more sustainable architectural landscape.
turn your debris into a masterpiece
dreamers
We are optimists and strive to create an optimistic reality for the planet.
ecohumanism
We design with deep commitment, balancing human needs and environmental boundaries.
collaboration
We believe the best ideas and projects come to life through solid partnerships. Our cladding materials are developed in close collaboration with RMC.
transparency
We share our mission, openly communicate our processes, and ensure openness in all sustainable practices.
uniqueness
Our high-end products blend resourcefulness and customisation, making each creation one of a kind.
inclusivity
We see change as a shared effort, collaborating with creatives and experts to unlock the power of collective innovation.
LUÍS LIMA,
Architect and Co-Founder
“I’m passionate about transforming the construction industry by combining circular principles and collaborative design to minimize waste and create beautiful cladding materials. My goal is to inspire architects and builders to embrace sustainability and positively impact the environment. With our team, we’re fostering innovation and a better future.”
PATRÍCIA GOMES,
Architect and Co-Founder
“I believe in sustainability and profitability and we prioritize environmental responsibility and financial success, empowering architects to create exceptional spaces. Our materials offer superior quality, design versatility, and a commitment to sustainability. We want to make a lasting impact.”