Stones on the Move: Olivah at 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen

When Matter Becomes Narrative

In June 2026, Olivah participated in 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen as part of the exhibition “Momentum — Made in Portugal Naturally,” held at the Portuguese Embassy. Recognized for its growth and significance in the European contemporary design scene, the event brings together designers, architects, brands, and creatives from different regions to explore new perspectives on materials, processes, and ways of creating.

It was in this context that we presented Olivah’s vision of Portuguese natural stone. Portuguese natural stone is the starting point for many of the stories we seek to tell through design. Over the course of the exhibition, we shared our approach to the material, exploring its unique characteristics and its potential to create contemporary objects that connect territory, memory, and innovation.

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From Material to Creation

One of the highlights of our participation was the talk where we shared Olivah’s creative universe. Starting with Portuguese natural stone, we explored the inspirations, processes, and reflections that guide our work, revealing how we transform material into narrative through design.

This reflection was accompanied by a video created for the occasion, which invited visitors to trace the stone’s journey through time, revealing the textures, patterns, and distinctive features that make each piece unique.

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Stone and Cork in Dialogue

The exhibition also featured our placemats and coasters—pieces that explore the encounter between stone and cork. Through these two materials, we sought to create a dialogue between contrasts—weight and lightness, coolness and warmth, roughness and smoothness—giving rise to objects that invite connection, conversation, and sharing.

It was gratifying to witness the interest and curiosity of the visitors, who found in these materials a new way to discover the richness of Portugal’s natural resources.

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What We Brought Back from Copenhagen

Participating in 3 Days of Design was an opportunity to present Olivah’s work to an international audience, forge new connections, and engage in enriching conversations with design professionals and enthusiasts from around the world.

We returned with fresh inspiration, new perspectives, and the certainty that natural materials continue to spark interest when approached through new narratives and fresh perspectives.

Our thanks go to AICEP, the Made in Portugal Naturally initiative, and Miguel Soeiro for making our participation possible, as well as to everyone who visited the exhibition, attended the talk, and shared their time, interest, and enthusiasm with us.

Copenhagen reminded us that design has the power to create lasting connections between materials, places, and people.

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