Offices

Sertão Portinari Installation: A Nildo Jose’s Interpretation of the Brazilian Wilderness

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By 
Rick Formalejo

Sertão refers to the “hinterland” or “backcountry” of Brazil. It is characterized by the scrubby upland forests called “caatingas” that cover the region. In his installation project: Sertão Portinari, Nildo José takes inspiration from the country’s sparsely populated wilderness, from the choice of the color palette to the materials used in every piece.

Upon entering Sertão Portinari, visitors will pass through a portico covered with Grand Metal ballast, playful contrast to the space’s predominantly earthy-toned interiors. A palette of tones present in the works of the greatest Brazilian artist has influenced the choice of colors. Guests are welcomed with rusticity, elegance, and enchantment. An element also reflects the air of the region, with a large Mandacaru welcoming visitors.

The Boulevard collection covers the entire floor of the space. This gives the floor an aspect of beaten earth. The earth-tone color palette is broken with a touch of blue on the Aqua porcelain, representing the sky and the water. 

The artist brings integrated and fluid environments together with Brazilianness as the main concept. The space features the right balance between organic shapes and straight lines by having fewer items and a smooth and fluid aesthetic. 

The installation showcases some of the finest pieces and materials from different brands and designers. A brise formed by the Senses Decor, for instance, surrounds the entire environment and refers to the rammed earth construction system which uses clay and wood to create walls. This creates an unusual effect between the rusticity of the Sertão and the elegance of the innovative proposal in the arrangement of porcelain tile.

Moreover, the home office table and the kitchen countertop explore the grandeur of the Grand Metal ballast. The central bench with straw details functions as a station for cooking which features joinery by Ornare. 

A circular island occupies the center of the space. It divides the functions of the house, where one side features a bar and a fireplace, forming a lounge. On the other side, meanwhile, a part of the structure serves as the bathroom. The minimalism between the interior and exterior shows a deeply artistic and modern side without compromising functionality and elegance. 

The bathroom has glass and a mirror by Silvestre Vidros that connect to the bedroom. The bedroom features the Double Bed by Wentz Design which forms a space of comfort and relaxation. 

The installation project consists of a living room, lounge, dining room, kitchen, and master suite with a home office. Deca tableware and metals stand out in the kitchen and bathroom. On the ceiling and walls, the artist used Duratex coverings in the Nogueira Veneto pattern, a redesign of the classic Italian walnut, harmonizing tradition and the contemporary.

In the social area, the dining room, and the gourmet space, visitors will find a rectangular table by Sandra Ortho Esculturas with a special design by the architect for CASACOR, and Bambolê chairs, by +55 Design, complete the production. The ceiling of the living room features a large light fixture that provides a more casual air to the environment. 

Apart from the mentioned designers, other pieces featured in this beautifully curated space include Poltronas Paraty, signed by Sério Rodrigues; Kanga armchair, by Ricardo Van  Steen; Ondine armchairs, by Jorge Zalszupin; Cordial Armchair, by Victor Vasconcelos; and MP97 armchairs, by Percival Lafer.

To complete the sertão experience, visitors can look at real images of cracked earth, listen to the sounds of running rainwater, and watch children running through the puddles, living an atmosphere of purity and joy. The playlist also makes visitors feel like they are in sertão, with references to the rezadeiras, accordions, and other magical elements of the region. 

Finally, the space presents “Os Brasileiros” as its central artwork. The art piece is by Juraci Dórea, a sculptor, painter, photographer, draftsman, and visual programmer who works in Feira de Santana. He gradually made his work converge contemporary visual languages with country roots and traditions.

Photos by Denilson Machado – MCA Estúdio

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