Care & Maintenance
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We only work with handmade products crafted from natural materials, which means slight imperfections, variations in color,
or subtle differences are part of the unique charm and character of our collection.
Wood
Manau rattan (Calamus manan) is highly valued for its long, flexible, and durable stems. Manau rattan grows abundantly in the rain forests of the Indonesian archipelago.
Characteristics
Manau rattan has a smooth, glossy surface when polished. The texture is firm yet flexible, allowing it to be easily bent and shaped without breaking. The natural colour of ranges from a pale yellow to light brown. Over time it will develop a richer, darker patina.
Maintenance
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Treatment for weather and rot resistance is needed.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap, avoiding excessive moisture, as rattan can be sensitive to water.
Suar (Samanea saman) is an hardwood that was introduced to Southeast Asia in the mid 19th century by Portuguese colonists as a plantation tree.
Characteristics
Suar develops a deeper and richer colour over time with exposure to light. Suar wood always varies in tone, colour and pattern. Wood is a living material that expands and contracts, causing cracks and knots. We take steps during transport and in our warehouse to dry and coat suar wooden items, but it may still hold moisture deep within that can seep out over time.
Maintenance
Treating the product with a protective oil yearly is recommended, this will also revive the colour.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Not recommended for extremely dry climates or changes in humidity.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap, but avoid soaking the wood to prevent damage.
Teak (Tectona grandis) is a tropical hardwood, native to Southeast Asia, particularly India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Myanmar
Characteristics
It has a yellowish, straight grain heartwood and whitish to yellowish brown sapwood. If not maintained it will age to a beautiful silver-gray patina, especially when exposed to sunlight.
Maintenance
Regular oiling or sealing is required to retain its original colour.
Teak is natural weather resistance and is suitable for outdoor use.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap, but avoid soaking the wood.
Teak is naturally resistant to moisture, but it's best to keep it in a dry environment to prevent warping.
Teak branch refers to a smaller section of wood that is part of the tree’s branching structure. It can vary in shape and size.
Characteristics
Teak branch is lighter in colour, has more variation in colour and knots, has an uneven grain and shines less, as it contains slightly less natural oils than solid teak. It has the tendency to warp and split more easily. If not maintained it will age to a beautiful silver-gray patina, especially when exposed to sunlight
Maintenance
Treatment for weather and rot resistance is needed.
Regular oiling or sealing is required to retain its original colour.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap, but avoid soaking the wood.
Teak is naturally resistant to moisture, but it's best to keep it in a dry environment to prevent warping.
Weaving
Abaca (Musa textilis), also known as Manila hemp, is a species of banana native to the Philippines and is commonly harvested for its fiber to make ropes.
Characteristics
Its fibers are strong, coarse, and stiff, giving them a rough texture. Sailors used Abaca cord on ships for centuries because of its durability and resistance to saltwater damage, making them ideal for outdoor furniture.
Maintenance
Treatment for rot resistance is needed.
Abaca is natural weather resistance and is suitable for outdoor use.
You can steam abaca grass to restore its original shape, bringing back its natural form and flexibility.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, wipe it down with a damp cloth, but avoid soaking it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Banana (Musa paradisiaca) leaves are twisted, rolled, or plaited. After this process, they are used for weaving.
Characteristics
Banana leaves are smooth yet sturdy, offering a natural and slightly coarse feel due to the inherent fibers of the banana leaf. They are strong yet lightweight, suitable for delicate furniture designs and other decorative elements.
Maintenance
Treatment for weather and rot resistance is needed.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, wipe it down with a damp cloth, but avoid soaking it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Coconut fibers, also known as coir, are natural fibers extracted from the outer husk of coconuts of the coconut tree (Cocos nucifera).
Characteristics
Coconut fibers are coarse and rough, providing a natural, rustic appearance. They are commonly used for making rope and twine due to their strength and resilient to saltwater or are woven into mats, rugs and carpets.
Maintenance
Coconut fibre is natural weather resistance and is suitable for outdoor use.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deep cleaning, use a damp cloth or sponge with mild soap.
Mendong (Fimbristylis globulosa) is a type of water grass that abundantly grows on Java, Indonesia.
Characteristic
Mendong fibers are coarse and stiff, with a rough texture. They can add a rustic feel to furniture and other decorative elements.
Maintenance
Treatment for weather and rot resistance is needed.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
You can steam mendong grass to restore its original shape, bringing back its natural form and flexibility.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, wipe it down with a damp cloth, but avoid soaking it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Raffia (Raphia farinifera) is a palm tree native to the regions of Africa and Madagascar. However, it has been introduced and cultivated in Indonesia since the 1800s.
Characteristics
Raffia fibers are soft, pliable, and slightly waxy. They have a natural, rustic appearance and are commonly used for weaving and wrapping in furniture making. Locally, raffia is used for agricultural purposes to tie vegetables and other floral arrangements.
Maintenance
Treatment for weather and rot resistance is needed.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
You can steam raffia to restore its original shape, bringing back its natural form and flexibility.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth, but avoid soaking it, as excessive moisture can weaken the fibers.
Rattan cane (Calamus rotang), also known als true rattan, grows abundantly in the rain forests of the Indonesian archipelago.
Characteristics
Rattan has a smooth, glossy surface when polished. The texture is firm yet flexible, allowing it to be easily bent and shaped without breaking, and is therefore commonly used for weaving in furniture and lamp making.
Maintenance
Treatment for weather and rot resistance is needed.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, wipe it down with a damp cloth, but avoid soaking it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Seagrass is a marine flowering plant found in shallow coastal waters across tropical and temperate seas. It plays a vital role in marine ecosystems and is often used in home decor for its natural, earthy aesthetic.
Characteristics
Seagrass fibers are smooth, flexible, and slightly coarse. The material is sturdy and has a subtle sheen, lending an organic, coastal feel to furniture. Seagrass is commonly used for weaving baskets, rugs, and storage solutions.
Maintenance
Since Seagrass is sensitive to moisture, it should be kept in dry or well-ventilated spaces.
Recommended for indoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment.
For a deeper clean, gently wipe with a damp cloth, but avoid excess water to prevent mold and mildew.
Sisal (Agave sisalana) is a flowering plant native to southern Mexico, but widely cultivated and naturalized in many other countries.
Characteristics
Sisal fibers are stiff, coarse, and strong. They have a rough texture, providing a rustic and natural look to furniture, often used for ropes, mats and lamps.
Maintenance
Treatment for weather and rot resistance is needed.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, wipe it down with a damp cloth, but avoid soaking it, as too much moisture moisture can cause damage.
Water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) is a water plant native to Brazil, which has now infested nearly every waterway in the world.
Characteristics
Water hyacinth fibers are soft and spongy with a coarse texture. They are lightweight and flexible, commonly used for weaving furniture and adding a natural look.
Maintenance
Treatment for weather and rot resistance is needed.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it clean.
For deeper cleaning, wipe it down with a damp cloth, but avoid soaking it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Wicker is a subbrand of Viro that produces synthetic wicker designed to mimic natural rattan, and is used for weaving in lamp and furniture making.
Characteristics
Wicker has a smooth, consistent texture and is highly durable, ideal for outdoor furniture. It is also natural UV resistance.
Maintenance
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
If you're using it outdoors, consider applying a protective sealant and cover or store it during harsh weather to preserve its natural beauty.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
For deeper cleaning, wipe it down with a damp cloth, but avoid soaking it, as too much moisture can weaken the fibers.
Textile
Cotton is derived from the seeds of the cotton plant (Gossypium) and is one of the most widely used natural fibers in the world.
Characteristics
Our naturally soft cotton fibers, produced in Indonesia or India, are ideal for indoor cushioning, upholstery, and other various decorative elements.
Our cushions are dyed by hand, giving each individual item a personality of its own. Minor color variations should not be considered a defect but a distinct character of the product.
Maintenance
Wash by hand in cold water to prevent shrinking or damage.
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Not weather resistant.
Sunbrella fabric is a brand of high-performance outdoor fabric known for its durability and resistance to various environmental elements.
Characteristics
Sunbrella is commonly used for cushions, pillows, and upholstery on outdoor furniture due to its weatherresistant properties.
Maintenance
Sunbrella is natural weather resistance and is suitable for outdoor use.
For deeper cleaning, use a solution of mild soap and water, applying it with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
It's important to avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fabric.
Jute is a natural fiber obtained the bark of the jute plant (Corchorus).
Characteristics
Jute fibers are typically coarse and have a distinctive, rough textured appearance, which gives them a natural, rustic feel. It’s commonly used for making eco-friendly bags, rugs and carpets, cushions, upholstery and other decorative items.
Maintenance
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Not weather resistant.
Keep it dry, as jute is sensitive to moisture. If it gets wet, air dry immediately to prevent mold.
For stains, use a mild soap solution and blot with a damp cloth without rubbing too hard.
Leather is a natural material made from the hides or skins of animals. It is processed through tanning to enhance its durability and usability.
Characteristics
Leather can range from very soft and pliable to more rigid and firm, depending on its thickness and processing. It’s a popular choice for fashion items such as clothing and accessories, as well as for furniture, including cushions and upholstery.
Maintenance
Recommended for indoor and covered outdoor use only.
Not weather resistant.
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild soap, and avoid soaking the leather.
Ceramic
Our ceramics are proudly crafted in Portugal, known for its rich tradition of ceramic artistry. This heritage contributes to the unique designs and high-quality finishes of each piece.
Characteristics
Ceramic is a broad term that refers to a wide range of inorganic, non-metallic materials made from clay and other natural minerals, which results in a hard and durable product.
Our handmade tableware can vary in colour. This is not a manufacturing defect, but a unique feature of the material and the method of making.
The Comporta Collection is made using crackle glaze finish. This finish is known to show a different intensity of crackles with each item. These crackles are therefore part of the decoration of this collection.
Maintenance
Our ceramics are food proof, dishwasher proof, and microwave proof, making them practical for everyday use.
They are also chip-resistant, ensuring they maintain their beauty even with regular handling.
It is not oven proof, so it's best to avoid using them in the oven.
Terracotta is a type of earthenware clay that is widely used in pottery and construction, originating from the natural red clay found in many regions, including Italy and China.
Characteristics
Terracotta can vary in texture from smooth and polished to rough and rustic, depending on its finish and firing process. It’s a favored material for both decorative pieces and practical items, such as pots, tiles, and dishes.
Maintenance
It is microwave proof and oven proof, allowing for convenient heating and cooking.
It is not dishwasher proof, so hand washing is recommended to preserve its quality.
Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.
Terracotta is a type of earthenware clay that is widely used in pottery and construction, originating from the natural red clay found in many regions, including Italy and China.
Characteristics
Terracotta can vary in texture from smooth and polished to rough and rustic, depending on its finish and firing process. It’s a favored material for both decorative pieces and practical items, such as pots, tiles, and dishes.
Maintenance
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.
Terracotta vases should not be used outdoors in the winter, as freezing temperatures can cause the material to crack or break.
Our terracotta vases are not waterproof, meaning they should not be used to hold water directly. Consider placing a smaller waterproof container inside the vase to protect it from moisture.
Stone
Lava stone, also known as volcanic stone, is a natural material formed from solidified lava.
Characteristics
It is prized for its durability, unique texture, and natural heat resistance. Lava stone is commonly used for countertops, flooring, and decorative pieces due to its ability to withstand high temperatures and its porous yet sturdy surface.
Maintenance
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution, ensuring that harsh chemicals or abrasive materials are avoided, as they can damage the surface.
Although naturally heat resistant, it's best to avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on lava stone surfaces to preserve its appearance.
Marble is a natural stone prized for its elegance, unique veining, and smooth surface.
Characteristics
It has been used for centuries in everything from sculptures to architectural elements and countertops. While visually stunning, marble is a porous stone, making it somewhat sensitive to stains, scratches, and acidic substances like citrus or vinegar.
Maintenance
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
Harsh chemicals and abrasive materials should be avoided, as they can etch or scratch the marble.
Sandstone is a natural sedimentary rock known for its warm, earthy tones and textured surface.
Characteristics
While often used in flooring, wall cladding, and outdoor landscaping due to its durability and natural beauty, sandstone is also popular for small statues and home decor. Sandstone is relatively porous, which means it can absorb liquids and is prone to staining if not properly sealed.
Our handcrafted sandstone sculptures combine natural beauty with artisanal skill. Each piece is carefully shaped by hand, preserving the unique characteristics of the stone. No two statues are exactly the same.
Maintenance
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt.
Avoid using water or harsh cleaners, as sandstone is porous and can absorb moisture, leading to potential damage.
"Let’s not just throw away the objects we use daily if a corner is missing, but let's treasure them for a lifetime."
~ Pascale Pelsmaekers
Articles
Cleaning guide for outdoor teak furniture.
The surface of untreated teak will patinate over time to eventually become a silvery grey colour. Allowing natural patination to develop does not affect the durability or quality of the material. However, to preserve or intensify the original honey-golden colour, a suitable furniture oil should be regularly applied.
Guide to applying an oil treatment.
If you wish to preserve or intensify the original golden-brown colour of your teak furniture, use natural oil regularly. As the natural oil saturates and darkens the surface a little, it brings out the natural beauty of the wood and leaves it well-nourished and resistant to water, dirt and grease.