Carlos Motta stands as one of the most emblematic figures in contemporary Brazilian design.
Take A Seat
Carlos Motta
Carlos Motta stands as one of the most emblematic figures in contemporary Brazilian design. Trained as an architect, he began his career in 1975 in São Paulo’s bohemian neighborhood of Vila Madalena, working with furniture and carpentry. A period of study in California, where he honed techniques in wood and metal construction, further shaped his design language. In 1978, he officially founded Atelier Carlos Motta. His work is defined by a deep respect for nature and values rooted in the counterculture movement — including ecology, simplicity, and longevity. Guided by a strong ethical compass, Motta has built a career grounded in sustainability and a pursuit of both conceptual and formal excellence.
Carlos Motta in his São Paulo Atelier. Photo by Ruy Teixeira.
Asturias
The simple and refined Asturias armchair, is perhaps the most emblematic of Carlos Motta's designs. Composed artisinally of reclaimed and post-demolition wood, the Asturias collection is atemporal, ergonomic, durable and represents Brazilian identity. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces, this recent edition features full armrests.
Tempo
Part of the ATTOM collection, the ergonomic Tempo armchair is shaped by wooden slats dynamically joined together to compose a slanted back, low seat and outstretched armrests.
Tempo means “time” in Portuguese, which alludes to the ease of spending ample time in this inviting seat.
Barracuda
A namesake the slender tropical fish with large jaws and teeth, this ergonomic wooden chair features cone-shaped legs and a solid, low seat, and back composed of two panels.
Barca
The wide, rounded shape of this wooden seat is inspired by the body of a boat, called 'Barca' in Portuguese. The seat is tilted slightly upward on an oxidized iron base frame.
Mantik
Developed in a collaboration with EcoSimple, the seating upholstery features unique fabrics made of sustainable fibers, with textures that reference the mosses and lichens found on rocks and trees.
The simple yet compelling ‘Mantik’ collection, is named after the Mantiqueira mountains, alluding to their beauty and resilience. Handmade with reclaimed Peroba Rosa wood and an oxidized steel structure, these materials were chosen for their resistance and compatibility with artisanal production.
The unique relationship between Carlos Junqueira and Carlos Motta is built on over two decades of friendship and a shared commitment to elevate Brazilian design to the international stage. When Junqueira launched ESPASSO, he discovered that foreign audiences were drawn to the originality, character, and craftsmanship of Brazilian design. More than just a partner, Carlos Motta became a vital ally in the early days of ESPASSO. With generosity and vision, Motta understood that Brazilian design deserved recognition — something still overlooked by many at the time. Over the years, their bond has grown stronger, built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared history that has helped change the way the world — and even Brazilians themselves — view their national design. Carlos Motta Atelier continues to evolve as the second generation, Motta’s son, Diego, takes the helm of a fresh and young brand born within the atelier — ATTOM. With the spirit of surf, sport and a sustainable lifestyle, ATTOM pieces are, sturdy, functional and cool.
This text is an excerpt from a conversation featured in Art Dialogues magazine.
For the full article, scan here:
Product photos in this brochure by Dora Barros. Cover and back photo by Ruy Teixeira.
Diego Motta, Carlos Junqueira and Carlos Motta at ATTOM in São Paulo. Photo by Ruy Teixeira.
Established in 2002, ESPASSO is committed to conserving Brazil's rich 20th century design heritage and expanding its global reach, while promoting the new creative generations and today's leading designers. Present in New York, Los Angeles, Miami and London, ESPASSO is a premier gallery representing mid-century modern and contemporary Brazilian design - a thriving outpost for interior designers, architects, artists, collectors and museum curators.
Take A Seat
Take A Seat is both a retrospective exhibit and launch event — marking not only the breadth and longevity of Carlos Motta’s career as a designer, but his continuing creativity and contributions to contemporary Brazilian design.
NYCxDESIGN is a non-profit organization dedicated to uniting New York City’s vibrant Design community. We are the essential resource for fostering connections and nurturing partnerships between disciplines, practitioners, scholars, and supporters of New York City’s diverse and vital Design community.
www.espasso.com — 38 N Moore Street, New York, NY — @espasso
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