Pastelaria Alcôa El Corte Inglês

Alcôa El Corte Inglés – Lisbon

Located within the Gourmet Experience at El Corte Inglés, Alcôa El Corte Inglés introduces the timeless character of Portugal’s monastic pastry tradition to one of Lisbon’s busiest commercial settings. Established in 1957 in Alcobaça, the Alcôa brand has long been celebrated for conventual sweets specialties such as “cornucópias”, “ovos do paraíso”, and “pastéis de nata”. This new location reinforces the brand’s identity while offering a refined and immersive environment.

Contacto Atlântico was responsible for the architectural concept, ensuring that every detail contributes to the spatial storytelling. The design blends historical continuity with contemporary functionality, using noble materials like wood, ceramics, and metal to evoke a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. Precision lighting plays a central role in showcasing the pastries’ textures and colors, enhancing their cultural and visual impact.

The layout encourages intuitive movement through the space, with a sculptural counter at its core, surrounded by glass display units and a streamlined coffee service point. This configuration promotes customer engagement while preserving the fast-paced flow of the shopping centre. Careful zoning allows the space to adapt to different rhythms throughout the day — from casual visits to moments of indulgence.

The design also took into consideration acoustic comfort and service efficiency, essential in a high-traffic commercial setting. Every material and layout decision contributed to reinforcing Alcôa’s refined identity without compromising practicality. The end result is a balanced blend of tradition, function, and brand storytelling.

More than a shop, the project is a physical extension of the Alcôa brand’s values — tradition, excellence, and Portuguese identity. It stands as a case study in how architecture can elevate heritage and transform it into a meaningful spatial experience.

For another example of our work with Alcôa, explore the Pastelaria Alcôa Chiado project.
Learn more about Alcôa – Mestres em Doces Conventuais www.pastelaria-alcoa.com.