When designer Sarah Flint began seeking inspiration for her next collection, a trip to Lisbon immediately sprung to mind. Her work always fueled by the beauty of travel—including her current summer collection, thoughtfully designed after a stint in Greece—she considered a trip to the Portuguese capital long overdue.
Her journey took her through the streets of Alfama and Sintra; down narrow cobblestone paths lined with traditional cafés and tiny shops; to historical sites, hundreds of years old, still standing the test of time. And around every corner, hidden in the city’s architecture, design, and flora, she found more than just the creative vision she needed.
“Every part of Lisbon feels special,” Flint says, looking back on the trip. “It’s a place that is steeped in history but is also growing and evolving into a modern city.”
“[The people of Lisbon] are passionate about preserving their culture but also educating newcomers about the different traditions, the language, and the incredible food,” she says. “They know that their home is a very special place and want everyone visiting to feel that.”
Here, Flint captures the details of Lisbon that enchanted her most and reflects on the little moments that reminded her that oftentimes, the best of a place only emerges when one stops to take a closer look.
Under the iconic archway at Praça do Comércio. The architecture throughout Lisbon is stunning. I had to remind myself to look up everywhere we went so as not to miss the intricate designs and artistry incorporated into every building.
Lisbon is filled with beautiful tilework tucked around every corner. I loved walking around and finding hidden gems like this—in my Grear sandals!
I find inspiration just about everywhere, including during this brief shopping excursion. The unique fabrics and color palette of a clothing store in Chiado called Vintage Bazaar stood out to me.
The beautiful colors and pattern of this tile will definitely be incorporated into future collections.
Every street in Lisbon has something special about it. I loved the color and windows of this building in particular.
I stumbled across this building with an intricately designed front door juxtaposed with bright blue and white tilework embedded into the wall.
Another reminder to look up, even if you’re just walking to dinner. Almost every balcony in Lisbon had carefully tended potted plants and brightly colored flowers.
With its serene colors and delicious breakfast, the lobby of our hotel was the perfect place to start each day.
Sintra, located outside of Lisbon, is famous for its national palace. It was certainly the first yellow palace I had ever seen.
Taking a break from sightseeing to enjoy the ocean and Portuguese wine at the terrace bar at The Albatroz Hotel in Cascais.
Praia da Conceição is right next to the Albatroz Hotel. The beaches of Portugal have white sand and crystal clear water. It is definitely worth a day trip outside of the city to visit the coast.
I was inspired even while grocery shopping! I loved the bright magenta and turquoise of these vintage tins, which Portugal is famous for.
I highly recommend visiting Lisbon in May. The weather was perfect and all of the flowers were in bloom.
There are peacocks roaming the streets of Sintra –definitely an improvement over New York’s pigeons!
The hidden alleyways and narrow streets without any cars made it feel as though we were transported back in time. It was hard to leave this beautiful city—I definitely left feeling inspired!
