Threads of Architecture is a cultural project curated by Ciarmoli Queda Studio, centered on a capsule collection of rugs developed as material interpretations of architectural design principles. Presented at the Embassy of Portugal in Athens, the project unfolds as a dialogue between Portugal and Greece. Ciarmoli Queda draws inspiration from the work of Emmanuel Vourekas, a key figure of Greek modernism. His approach to proportion, rhythm, thresholds, light, and material clarity provides the conceptual foundation for the capsule. These principles are interpreted into five rugs produced by the historical manufacturer Beiriz, where textile craftsmanship becomes a medium to explore structure, order, and abstraction.
The capsule represents the fulcrum of the project. It establishes a shared cultural reference and frames a broader reflection on how design thinking can move across disciplines and materials, maintaining coherence while adapting to different forms of production. Around this core, Threads of Architecture expands into a curated encounter involving Portuguese manufacturers, architects, publishers and Greek cultural interlocutors.
Furniture pieces specially manufactured by Paularte, a skilled Portuguese company with a long-term experience in the finest techniques of cabinet making, find a complementary presence in a desk designed by arch. Argyro Pouliovali founder of ARP Architecture Research Practice, and a stool by Simone Ciarmoli and Miguel Queda. The editorial voice of AMAG Publisher and the participation of arch. Luisa Souto de Moura contribute to the dialogue, supporting the project’s cultural depth while keeping the focus on materials, production and shared methodologies.
The project is realized in institutional partnership with the Benaki Museum, which is home to Modern Greek Architecture Archives and lends a wider heritage context to the initiative. Ciarmoli Queda Studio has curated the project in its entirety: from concept development and content definition to the selection of partners, the activation of relationships between Portuguese companies and Greek institutions, designers, and professionals. The studio’s long-standing engagement with both contexts allows the project to operate with precision, credibility, and cultural sensitivity. Threads of Architecture is conceived to foster meaningful exchanges, strengthen professional relationships, and position Portuguese production within a contemporary Mediterranean design context. It also aims to open new paths, proposing design as a means to explore and reinforce cultural references, tradition and creativity, with an inclusive vision.
