Further Ther: Furniture That Defies Convention and Tells a Story
people • MAKERS
Based in Lisbon, Portugal, Further Ther is a collection-based design practice which explores the dialogue between object language and human experience. It embodies a space where the elemental meets the unexpected, converging around a shared table.
WEBSITE: furtherther.com INSTAGRAM: @further_ther
Words: designeers
december 2024
DESIGNEERS
What inspired the creation of Further Ther, and how has the brand’s journey evolved since its inception?
ther
We first crossed paths at Domaine de Boisbuchet, a design and architecture institution in the French countryside. Immersed in its vibrant, multicultural setting, we found a strong sense of community that marked the beginning of our shared journey.
This formative experience shaped our studio's foundations, combining Tomas's engineering background with Natasza's fine arts expertise—two complementary perspectives united by a hands-on approach and shared aesthetic vision.
After honing our crafts independently—cabinet-making and bespoke ceramics—we established our studio in Portugal. Its rich traditions, materials, and cultural vibrancy offer constant inspiration, grounding our work in a place where craftsmanship and creativity thrive.
DESIGNEERS
Your designs emphasize the harmony between craftsmanship, form, and function. How would you describe Further Ther’s design philosophy in three words?
ther
Material driven process.
DESIGNEERS
Being based in Lisbon, how does the local culture, environment, or craftsmanship influence your design approach and identity?
ther
Lisbon’s cultural and architectural fabric deeply shapes our design identity. The city’s dynamic energy, blending tradition with international influences, inspires us daily. In transition yet timeless, its modern developments coexist with historic charm, creating a rich dialogue between old and new.
This interplay resonates with our ethos, “we are what we explore”—a continuous journey of discovery. Our centrally located showroom, surrounded by antique shops and art galleries, situates us within a creative community that celebrates this fusion of tradition and innovation, perfectly reflecting our design approach
DESIGNEERS
Your objects are described as both functional and sculptural. How do you strike the balance between usability and artistry in your work?
ther
Finding this cohesion between function and form in our work comes naturally through the synergy of our backgrounds and practices. With experience in both design and production—cabinet-making and ceramics—we’re deeply rooted in functionality. Our commitment to quality and durability ensures that, even when exploring bold and sculptural forms, we always consider the practical outcome.
Given our differing career paths, our process often involves one of us pushing a sculptural or visual concept, while the other focuses on the feasibility and functional execution of the idea. This dynamic fosters a creative push-and-pull, with plenty of trial and error along the way. Ultimately, this complementary approach encourages meaningful experimentation, thoughtful problem-solving, and a result that reflects both artistry and usability, sparking ongoing exploration and dialogue.
“We place great value on the connection you can establish with a piece—whether it’s through the object itself or the designer or maker behind it. The deeper that connection and the stronger the emotion it evokes, the more timeless the piece becomes.”
ther
DESIGNEERS
Collaboration is a big part of the design world. Have you partnered with other creatives or brands, and how have these collaborations shaped your work?
ther
Collaboration is at the heart of our practice—both with clients and within our dynamic as designers. Natasza’s fine arts background brings creative freedom, while Tomas’s technical expertise ensures structure and feasibility. Together, we merge artistic expression with functional clarity.
For bespoke commissions, we immerse ourselves in the project’s context, with material selection setting the tone. Designs often evolve organically, shaped by the unique qualities of the materials and tools, with elements like saw cuts or ceramic textures embraced as part of the narrative.
These collaborations add depth and meaning, ensuring each piece reflects our ethos of exploration and discovery.
DESIGNEERS
Can you share a glimpse of what’s next for Further Ther? Are there any upcoming collections, projects, or innovations you’re excited about?
MAGDA
Absolutely! Our countryside studio, showroom, and workshop—an ongoing project since January—has evolved into our creative playground. It’s a space where we push beyond object design, exploring materials on a larger scale. Currently, we’re completing dividing wall builds within the 400 sqm open space, incorporating architectural solutions that reflect our design language.
Working with building materials and structures has deeply influenced the permanent collection we’re developing for the space. As for art direction and photography, this environment perfectly encapsulates our process-driven aesthetic, offering a setting that feels both inspiring and fulfilling.
DESIGNEERS
What is your design superpower?
MAGDA
Having a ceramic atelier within our Lisbon apartment and a small wood workshop nearby allows us to maintain close, daily contact with the materials we work with. This setup enables us to quickly explore spontaneous ideas or concepts that pop up throughout the day.
As we mentioned, materials and their inherent characteristics provide intricate insights that can only be discovered through a hands-on approach. Our path, methodology, and inspiration feel almost like a process of listening, observing, and understanding the essence of materials. This daily practice has become what we might call our superpower.
DESIGNEERS
Sources of creative inspiration:
ther
A key part of our work is connecting with like-minded people—not just in design, but in life. Open conversations inspire us, spark new ideas, and expand our vision. This year, we launched Luso Collective, a platform fostering connections both digitally and physically, while showcasing Portugal's collectible design scene.
Inspiration also comes from visiting places that ignite curiosity—workshops, studios, galleries, museums, and fairs all fuel our creative process. Equally essential is time spent in nature, where we reconnect, find clarity, and enrich our creative perspective.
DESIGNEERS
Finally, what advice would you give to someone looking to bring meaningful, timeless design into their spaces?
ther
We place great value on the connection you can establish with a piece—whether it’s through the object itself or the designer or maker behind it. The deeper that connection and the stronger the emotion it evokes, the more timeless the piece becomes.
