Adico has joined forces with Atelier Daciano da Costa for a collaboration that promises to revive and celebrate the legacy of what is considered the founder of Portuguese design.
The Adico X Daciano da Costa partnership aims to relaunch some of the most emblematic pieces by the “father of Portuguese design”, Daciano da Costa, with an approach that respects the history and character of the original pieces, while adapting them to the contemporary context.
The first initiative of this collaboration is the relaunch of the iconic Peninsular Chair, a landmark of Daciano da Costa's modernist design. The piece will be presented to the public at the next edition of Maison et Objet (HALL6, stands J106 and K105), to be held in Paris between January 16 and 20. This launch symbolizes the two entities' commitment to preserving and promoting the designer's cultural and artistic heritage, highlighting it on the main international stages.
Miguel Carvalho, director of Adico, says: “This partnership is a celebration of the union of Portuguese design and our industrial capacity. To relaunch the works of Daciano da Costa is a responsibility and a privilege. We want to ensure that these pieces continue to inspire future generations, both in Portugal and around the world.”
Inês Cottinelli, CEO of Atelier Daciano da Costa, adds: “The collaboration with Adico reflects Daciano's innovative and visionary spirit. He has always believed in the formula of uniting creativity, function and excellent execution. We are confident that this partnership will help perpetuate the impact of his legacy on contemporary design.
The Peninsular Chair
The Peninsular Chair belongs to the set of furniture designed for the Grande Casino Peninsular in Figueira da Foz in 1983. Inspired by the modernist principles, the piece reflects the perfect combination of functionality, simplicity and sophistication.
In this re-edition, Adico and Atelier Daciano da Costa are proposing a version that is faithful to the original design, incorporating contemporary materials and techniques that reinforce the piece's durability and sustainability. This work was accompanied by a rigorous study of the archives, ensuring the integrity of Daciano's design and aesthetic values.
Peninsular stands out for its geometric lines and the balance between straight shapes and gentle curves. With a stainless steel metal structure, it includes a seat and backrest made of 100% cotton velvet, which guarantees greater comfort.
Designed to integrate different spaces, from offices to living areas, this chair is designed for long-term use, offering comfort without compromising on aesthetics. Its innovative ergonomics for the time made it suitable for both domestic and professional environments.
The Peninsular Chair was created during the period in which Daciano da Costa was collaborating on large-scale projects, such as furniture for public institutions and hotels. Its design reflects the focus on elegant, practical and durable solutions, often adapted to specific projects.
About Daciano da Costa
Daciano da Costa (1930-2005) is widely recognized as a central figure in 20th century Portuguese design. With a career extending over more than five decades, he was a leading figure in introducing a multidisciplinary approach to design, embracing furniture, interiors and architecture. Among his most notable works are his collaborations on iconic projects such as the Hotel Altis, the Gulbenkian and the Amoreiras Complex. His unique style combines modernity and functionality, consolidating him as a timeless reference in Portugal's cultural and artistic scene.
With a degree in Painting from the Lisbon School of Fine Arts (1961), Daciano da Costa stopped working in the visual arts to devote himself to Design. In 1959, he founded the “Atelier Daciano da Costa” and, with an ethical imperative and social intervention, dedicated to Industrial Design and Interior Design, without losing sight of Corporate Design, in a gradual approach to the world of architecture, industrial production and the market.
Daciano da Costa left a remarkable legacy in Portuguese design, with works that stand out for their functionality and timeless aesthetics. He designed the interiors and equipment for such emblematic spaces as the National Library, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, the Villaret Theatre, the Estoril Casino, the Belém Cultural Center and the Casa da Música.
His office furniture has become a contemporary classic. The “Cortez” furniture line is one of the most recognizable examples of Daciano da Costa's industrial design, demonstrating his versatility, refined aesthetics and deep respect for architectural and cultural contexts. His extensive work includes interior architecture, furniture, industrial and graphic design, as well as set and costume design.
Daciano da Costa's pieces are often shown in design exhibitions and are in the permanent collections of museums such as MUDE (Museum of Design and Fashion) in Lisbon. His approach balanced modernity with cultural and historical context, which established him as one of Portugal's most important industrial designers.
