Andrez Andrez – From the Algarve to the world

With roots in the Algarve and an unashamedly cosmopolitan outlook, AndrezAndrez has made a name for itself as a leading light in contemporary luxury interior design. Founded by Sofia Andrez and Joana Andrez – mother and daughter – the studio develops projects where elegance is formed through the balance between architecture, interior design and lifestyle. Speaking to Villas&Golfe, the duo discuss internationalisation, signature style and a vision of luxury that moves away from excess and towards the essential.

AndrezAndrez has forged a solid career from the Algarve, but with a language that goes beyond geographical boundaries. What was the moment when you felt that your work had truly become international?
AA - There was no specific moment, but rather a natural evolution. Right from the start, we never designed from a regional perspective, but rather with a universal language: proportion, light, materiality and emotion. These elements know no borders. Perhaps true recognition came when we started to work with clients who were of different nationalities and we realised that our approach was understood and valued regardless of culture.

Quinta do Lago has become one of the most prestigious residential developments in Europe. What opportunities did the projects in this development offer you in terms of scale, detail and creative demands?
AA - The fact that we have been working in this area since the beginning of AndrezAndrez has allowed us to test our approach in large-scale contexts, without ever losing the attention to detail that defines a project by our brand. The creative demands are naturally high, but scale is never an obstacle; if anything, it is an opportunity to enhance the concept, while maintaining the hallmark of detail and authenticity that characterises our work.

For Sofia and Joana, does luxury come more from materiality, and proportion, or the way a space is experienced in everyday life?
AA - For us, luxury comes from the total experience of the space. Materiality and proportion are essential – they define quality, balance and visual harmony – but they only take on meaning when the space is integrated into the daily lives of the people who inhabit it. A truly luxurious interior does not impose itself; it welcomes, functions and inspires emotion. It is the harmony between beauty, comfort and functionality that transforms a house into something timeless, memorable and deeply personal.

Before you think about fabrics, volumes or lighting, what information do you need to understand about the lifestyle of the people who will inhabit the space?
AA - Before making any aesthetic decisions, we try to gain a deep understanding of the people who will inhabit the space: their habits, routines, needs and aspirations. We need to understand not only what works on a day-to-day basis, but also what creates comfort, pleasure and emotional well-being. Only when we have this knowledge are we able to interpret lifestyle into design solutions that are cohesive, timeless and truly personal.

«For us, luxury comes from the total experience of the space.»

Is there any particular project that has left a lasting impression on you? Why?
AA - Each of them leaves a different and unique impression on us. Some because of the professional challenge, others because of a more emotional connection with the clients, and others because of the experiences they provide us with. They are all special and unique! 

Your projects attract international clients with highly diverse cultures and expectations. How do you maintain your signature style without ever losing sight of the essence of each client?
AA - Our signature style stems from the harmonious balance between proportion, light, materiality and narrative, rather than from an imposed style. Each client is unique, and our work always begins by gaining a deep understanding of their life, values and aspirations. Based on this, we convert this essence into design solutions that respect the cultural context and individual needs, but which are imbued with our timeless language. It is this combination that guarantees a strong signature style without ever eclipsing the personality of the people who inhabit the space.

In a sector that is constantly influenced by trends, how do you ensure that your projects stand the test of time – both aesthetically and emotionally?
AA - At AndrezAndrez, we don’t design trends, we design longevity. We believe that a timeless project comes from a deep understanding of three key elements: architecture, context, and the identity of the people who will live there. Trends can inspire details, but they are never the point of departure. Our jumping-off point is always the essence. Aesthetically, we favour balanced proportions, authentic materials, and reliable construction solutions. We work with natural textures, coordinated colour palettes, and pieces that have character, avoiding overly period-specific or decorative elements. Emotionally, a space will stand the test of time when it tells a true story. An interior that reflects the client’s lifestyle, values, and memories creates a connection – and that connection does not age.

«A truly luxurious interior does not impose itself; it welcomes, functions and inspires emotion.»

When you look to the future, what would you like to be immediately recognised as an ‘AndrezAndrez project’– not only in Portugal, but on the international stage?
AA - We would like an AndrezAndrez project to be recognised for its intentional serenity. Not for a repeated formal gesture or predictable aesthetics, but rather for an atmosphere. For a sense of balance, restraint and depth. Our signature is not defined by imposing a particular style, but by the harmony between architecture, interior design and emotion. […] Internationally, we would like an AndrezAndrez project to be recognised as a space with identity, but without borders.

Where do you find a balance between your personal and working life?
SA - Work is part of who I am – creating is something deeply personal. But I’ve learned that to maintain clarity and creative sensitivity, I need some downtime. I find that balance in my family, in travelling, in contact with nature, and in moments of silence that allow me to observe and absorb. Interestingly, many of the best ideas come when I’m away from the office. When I slow down, I gain perspective. When I disconnect, I come back more focused. I believe that a good balance is not about making a strict separation between personal and working life, but rather about allowing both to complement each other – with awareness and well-defined priorities.

JA - For me, work-life balance is above all a matter of conscious management – of time, energy and priorities. Running a studio requires focus, discipline and long-term vision. This means knowing when to be fully present in strategy, decisions and the team, but also recognising that mental clarity is an essential asset. Organisation, delegation and trust in the team are paramount. A good leader doesn’t need to be involved in everything; they need to ensure direction, consistency and culture. This structure allows me to create space for my personal life without compromising professional excellence.

«At AndrezAndrez, we don’t design trends, we design longevity.»

What is true luxury for you?
True luxury is feeling perfectly at home. It is the subtle combination of comfort, authenticity and attention to detail – a timeless space that welcomes us, uplifts us and makes us live better every day.

 

Text: Carla Martins
Photos: Rights Reserved