From their Lisbon workshop, Junto Wood Design crafts stunning solid wood furniture that beautifully reflects a deep respect for materials and the rich tradition of Portuguese craftsmanship.
In Portuguese, junto means together. It is a word of quiet convergence, of parts becoming a whole. It is also the name and the foundational philosophy of a Lisbon-based studio that is shaping a new language for contemporary Portuguese furniture. At The Portuguese List, we are drawn to makers who work with intention, whose stories are embedded in their craft. In the work of Junto Wood Design, we found a narrative of profound synergy, where material reverence and design integrity are one and the same.
The studio is the shared vision of its two founders, José Maria and Bernardo, who brought their complementary paths, carpentry and product design, into a single, collaborative space. This is the brand’s transformative origin: not a rediscovery of a lost art, but the deliberate fusion of two essential disciplines. One founder brings the intimate, tactile knowledge of the master craftsman; the other, the conceptual clarity and aesthetic rigour of the designer. Together, they create work that is both structurally honest and sensorially rich, a perfect synthesis of the hand and the head. This unique blend of carpentry and design is what sets Junto Wood Design apart, inspiring us with its innovative approach.
This philosophy stands as a thoughtful counterpoint to the transient nature of mass production. In a world of disposable objects, Junto’s mission is to create pieces that endure. Their ethos is captured in a simple, powerful maxim: “mass-produced furniture might fill a room, but bespoke furniture fills a life.” This is why their work resonates so profoundly with our vision of modern heritage. It is not about luxury for its own sake, but about investing in objects that carry meaning, that are designed to be passed down through generations. Their commitment is to create “well-made objects, designed to last.” This emphasis on endurance reassures us of the lasting value of Junto’s pieces, instilling confidence in our investment.
The process begins not with a sketch, but with a conversation. The first step is always “listening first”, a principle that transforms clients into collaborators. This means that the team at Junto Wood Design takes the time to understand the client’s needs, preferences, and the space the furniture will inhabit. This collaborative approach ensures that the final piece not only meets the client’s expectations but also becomes a unique reflection of their vision. From their workshop, the team works exclusively with certified, traceable solid woods, from the deep, grain-rich tones of Portuguese walnut to the elemental strength of oak. Their techniques are a dialogue between traditions, blending the meticulous strength of Japanese joinery with the dramatic, carbonised finish of Shou Sugi Ban.
What truly distinguishes a Junto piece, however, is its legibility. In their designs, the “constructive gesture is visible”, an intentional act of transparency where the joinery and structure are not hidden but celebrated as core aesthetic elements. A table or a bench becomes a quiet story of its own making. You can see how it is held together, fostering a connection not just to the final form, but to the skill and intention invested in its creation. This transparency in craftsmanship makes us feel connected and involved in the creation process, enhancing our appreciation for Junto’s work.
Based in Lisbon, Junto Wood Design operates from a workshop that is the true heart of their practice. This is not a polished downtown showroom, but a dedicated space for making, where the focus is on process and material. This craft-first ethos is central to their identity, grounding their refined work in the honest reality of a maker’s space. Their workshop is not a closed-off factory but an open invitation, a gesture of transparency where clients are encouraged to visit and witness the process firsthand. It is this commitment to honest craftsmanship, rooted in their Lisbon studio, that makes Junto Wood Design such a vital new voice in the story of Portuguese design. They are not just making furniture; they are crafting future heirlooms, together.
To explore the world of Junto Wood Design is to understand the enduring power of thoughtful craftsmanship. We invite you to discover their bespoke work and see how they are shaping the future of Portuguese design, one elemental piece at a time.
