The Portuguese brand Circu was born out of a deep passion for creating dreamlike spaces for children, transforming bedrooms into magical worlds where imagination knows no bounds. We interview the company's CEO André Oliveira: 'We wanted to create furniture that wasn't just functional, but also evoked a sense of wonder and creativity. The brand was founded with the belief that childhood is a fleeting yet precious time, and every child deserves a space where their dreams can come to life. Our inspiration comes from fairy tales, fantasy worlds, and the pure joy of being a child.'
Circu's designs are known for their whimsical and imaginative nature. How do you come up with the designs?
'Our designs are deeply rooted in storytelling. We draw inspiration from the worlds of fantasy, adventure, and fairy tales - anything that can spark a child's imagination. The design process begins with a concept or story that we want to tell, and we work closely with a team of designers, artisans, and craftsmen to bring these ideas to life. Each piece is meticulously crafted to be not only visually stunning, but also to encourage a sense of play and adventure. We also listen closely to our customers and draw inspiration from the dreams and desires of children themselves.'
Can you discuss some of the most popular or iconic pieces in Circu's collection, and what makes them stand out?
'Some of our most iconic pieces include the Rocky Rocket, the Bun Van, and the Fantasy Air Balloon Bed. The Rocky Rocket is a perfect example of how we blend functionality with imagination - it's a bed, but it's also a rocket ship that can take children on fantastical journeys. The Bun Van is another favourite, inspired by the vintage VW bus, creating a nostalgic yet playful environment. These pieces stand out not just for their unique designs but also for the emotions they evoke - joy, wonder, and a sense of adventure.'
How does Circu stay ahead of trends in children's furniture, and what emerging trends do you see shaping the future of the industry?
'We stay ahead of trends by being deeply connected to the world of design and by constantly innovating. Our team regularly attends design fairs, collaborates with interior designers, and keeps an eye on emerging technologies. We also pay attention to broader cultural trends - like the growing focus on sustainability and multifunctional spaces - and incorporate these into our designs. Looking ahead, we see a trend towards more personalised and customisable pieces, as well as a continued emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly materials.'
What markets is the brand most active in and how are the market conditions at the moment?
'Circu is active in various markets globally, with particularly strong presence in Europe, the Middle East, and North America. These regions have a growing demand for luxury children's furniture, and we're excited to see our brand resonate with families looking to create unique and magical spaces for their children. Additionally, we are expanding our presence in Asia, where there is a rising interest in high-end, imaginative children's furniture.
Like many industries, we are navigating a challenging economic landscape. Inflation, supply chain disruptions, and logistical issues have impacted the market, but we have adapted by streamlining our operations, exploring alternative supply chains, and remaining flexible in our approach. Despite these challenges, we continue to see strong demand for our products, particularly in markets where the luxury sector remains resilient. We are committed to maintaining the high quality and unique design that our customers expect, even in these difficult times.'
What are Circu's plans for the future?
'Looking ahead, we have exciting plans for new collections that will continue to push the boundaries of design and imagination. We are exploring collaborations with renowned designers and brands that share our vision of creating magical, one-of-a-kind spaces for children. Additionally, we are investing in new technologies to create even more customisable and interactive furniture pieces. Sustainability will also be a major focus, as we work to create furniture that is not only beautiful and imaginative but also environmentally responsible.'
More information:
Circu
Travessa Marques de Sá, Nº 68
4435 - 324 Rio Tinto. Portugal
+351 911 780 428
[email protected]
www.circu.net