It’s official – a new year is upon us and we can’t help but feel the excitement that comes with a brand new chapter. We hope the start of 2024 has brought you joy, inspiration and the promise of exciting possibilities. It’s been busy here at Lucas/Eilers Design and we can’t help but marvel at the many opportunities that lie ahead; each offering the joy of discovery and exploration.
This year, we look forward to bringing you more inspiration and more fun peeks behind the scenes. To kick off the year on an adventurous note, we’re excited to take you on a virtual journey to Portugal! Keep scrolling for a few insider tips and snapshots from Sandy’s visit that capture the essence of this truly spectacular destination.
This year, we look forward to bringing you more inspiration and more fun peeks behind the scenes. To kick off the year on an adventurous note, we’re excited to take you on a virtual journey to Portugal! Keep scrolling for a few insider tips and snapshots from Sandy’s visit that capture the essence of this truly spectacular destination.
TALES FROM LISBON
With its rippling hills that lend character to every step, navigating the charming streets of Lisbon can be a delightful challenge. Long before Uber became a convenient option, the old cable cars gracefully maneuvered the inclines, solving the uphill puzzle with ease. As you explore the city, your eyes are drawn to the exquisite tile exteriors adorning the buildings – a testament to Portugal’s rich artistic heritage! 
In the heart of Lisbon, Praça Dom Pedro beckons with its lively atmosphere and vibrant shops. Here, you’ll encounter one of Portugal’s unique exports – tinned seafood! These delights have even found a home in Times Square via The Fantastic World of the Portuguese Sardine, a company that is proudly bringing a taste of Portugal to the bustling heart of New York.
The streets themselves tell a story, adorned with captivating patterned sidewalks. Antique Portuguese tiles, each with its own tale to tell, can be found in quaint shops that are nothing short of breathtaking.
As day transitions to night, Lisbon transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle. We enjoyed a traditional Portuguese fado evening in an 18th-century chapel – an enchanting setting where we could fully experience the soulful, vibrant fado music. A distinctive rhythm runs through Lisbon and there is nothing more magical than hearing these timeless melodies echo through the city’s historic spaces.
Scroll on for a few more of my favorite Lisbon moments before I whisk you off to Sintra!
Visiting Belem Tower which is a 16th-century fortification crafted from limestone in Portuguese Manueline style that served as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon.
ADVENTURES IN SINTRA
Nestled in the charming town of Sintra, our hotel at the Tivoli Palácio de Seteais was nothing short of enchanting. From the moment we stepped through its doors, we were greeted by a warm ambiance that resonated throughout the historic walls. This property is not only a place to stay but also an immersive experience, where luxury and comfort seamlessly blended with the allure of Sintra’s rich heritage.
Venturing into Sintra led us to the Quinta da Regaleira (below), an estate designed by Italian architect Luigi Manini that is surrounded by a lush forest and steeped in mystery.
The Gothic palace is truly a sight to behold and one of the estate’s most notable attractions is the Initiation Well which lies at the heart of the property. A fascinating architectural structure once used by the Knights of the Templar, the Initiation Well is a subterranean tower that runs six stories deep.
After our tour of Quinta da Regaleira, we enjoyed lunch with a view at Monte Mar Restaurante in Cascais, a lovely seaside town located on the Portuguese Riviere.
The National Palace of Sintra is another must-see and the room below, known as the “Magpies Room,” is named after the painting on the ceiling, which is considered to be the oldest in the Palace. The precise meaning behind the 136 magpies is unknown but the roses grasped in the birds’ claws are a possible allusion to the English House of Lancaster, to which Queen Philippa belonged. Her husband was King João I and his motto “Por bem” (translated as for the good) can also be found within this ceiling’s interesting painting.
We had the most wonderful time exploring The National Palace of Sintra, immersing ourselves in its rich history and unveiling the captivating tales woven into its storied past.
The monumental kitchen below was built by King João I to serve the entire palace. Its size was justified based on the grounds that the court was comprised of several hundred people. As Sintra was a place where royal hunts were held, this is where the game was prepared for the banquets. The two iconic chimneys measuring 33 metres in height (see above) have become the symbol of Sintra.
Sintra’s Pena Palace below is a blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Manueline architectural styles and it sits atop a magnificent hill. Designed by German architect Baron Willhelm Ludwig von Eschwege in 1836, it is the perfect spot to visit if you’re a lover of all things architecture and natural beauty.
The charming town of Sintra was such a joy to visit. From the cobblestone pathways to the intricate architecture, every corner of Sintra exudes a timeless beauty and we look forward to returning one day soon!
CALLING ALL DESIGNERS
We’re on the hunt for creative individuals who would like to join our team as either a Senior Project Designer or Designer. We believe in fostering an environment that encourages innovation and imagination, and we are excited to welcome people who share our passion for excellence in design.
HAVE YOU SEEN US LATELY?
We are delighted to share that House Beautiful is showcasing the bunk room of Sandy’s Pirate’s Beach project in their Jan/Feb 2024 issue which is on stands now. The recognition this home has received over the years is heartwarming and this bunk in room in particular seems to be a crowd favorite!
Architectural Digest shared “15 Farmhouse Living Room Ideas for Cozy, Laid-Back Hangouts” and Sarah’s ranch project was highlighted for its ability to maximize storage and style.
What an honor to see Sandy’s Matagorda Bay project featured in Houston Chronicle’s feature “Houston’s Most Beautiful Homes of 2023: The Best in Design and Craftsmanship.” Tap the button below for all of the details behind this weekend retreat.
WE FONDLY CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF ERIC EILERS
It is with heavy hearts that we share Sarah’s beloved husband of 40 years recently lost his battle with cancer. Eric’s journey was marked by strength, grace, and unwavering optimism. He was surrounded by those he loved most, and he will be dearly missed by all.
As we gather to honor and celebrate Eric’s life this weekend, we ask that you keep the Eilers family in your thoughts.
“The world changes from year to year, our lives from day to day, but the love and memory of you shall never pass away.”
– Unknown
