HOME IS ALWAYS WHERE THE HEART IS!

First things first …. HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE GATHERER!

Wherever in the world you are reading this, we are wishing you the very best for 2026!

THE GATHERER is starting the new year by launching a in-destination journal series, spotlighting the places that shape how we think about living, travel, and business. And of course, it only feels right to begin with the city that continues to influence so much of what we do: Lisbon.

While Lisbon has long had a magnetic pull, in recent years there’s been a noticeable shift. Creatives, brands and businesses are not only emerging from Lisbon, they’re building here. And it’s easy to see why….

What we love most about Lisbon is the space it creates. Space to think clearly, build deliberately and live at a slightly different tempo.

Lisbon doesn’t try too hard. It moves with intention. From creative studios behind discreet façades to design-led boutiques and intimate restaurants, there’s a lot to discover….of course, if you know where to look.

We moved to Portugal five years ago (how time flies!) and Lisbon has influenced not only our lifestyle, but the way we work and build. It’s thoughtful, ever-evolving, and endlessly inspiring. It’s also why The Gatherer is proud to call this city home.

Here are the Places and Spaces we believe credit is due.

BUSINESSES AND BRANDS

To some people - Lisbon might be known for its surf and slow mornings, but make no mistake - there’s serious brand-building happening here.

THE-FACE-ONLY - http://thefaceonly.pt

I can’t speak more highly of this place. I’ve been coming here for a while now and the setup is truly one of a kind. The team are skilled, thoughtful and totally invested in what they do.

They specialise in non-invasive treatments and cover a wide range of services that can be tailored to your skin’s exact needs. Whether you’ve got an event or meeting on the horizon or just need some next-level TLC, The-Face-Only have you covered.

It’s a unisex space, welcoming anyone looking to invest in their skin/general wellbeing I always leave feeling like the best version of myself and I can’t not mention the skincare offerings is just as impressive!

ISTO – isto.pt
A Lisbon-born fashion label built on radical transparency, timeless design, and local production. Their flagship store on Rua da Escola Politécnica is minimal, sharp, and intentionally slow-paced ,no drops, no hype, just high-quality essentials made well.It’s everything a modern brand should be - clear, calm and confidently off-trend.

STAYS

SPATIA, Comporta - https://www.spatiacomporta.com

Just an hour outside of Lisbon, tucked into the pine forests near Comporta, SPATIA hotel the perfect balance between nature and refinement. It’s peaceful, beautifully designed and gives you space both literally and mentally , perfect to fully switch off.

However there is plenty to do there also paddle courts, yoga lessons bike rides… the list goes on.

The hotel is understated but elevated, with clean lines, natural materials and rooms with plenty of privacy. It’s the kind of place where every detail feels intentional, but never forced.

Whether you’re heading there for a reset weekend, a working getaway or interested in showcasing your brand in comportas beautiful scenery , Spatia delivers calm in nature without compromising on comfort. Service is warm but no fuss, the food in the restaurant is Devine! Try out the Steak - its is a winner + a glass of lilipop white wine (great story behind this wine make sure you ask the staff! ) We will 100% be visiting again soon!

SUBLIME, Lisboa - https://www.sublimelisboa.pt

Tucked behind a discreet façade in Amoreiras, Sublime Lisboa feels more like an impeccably styled residence than a hotel. It’s the Lisbon baby sister of the Sublime Comporta brand, but instead of beach grasses and barefoot minimalism, this space leans into quiet urban sophistication: layered textures, sculptural lighting, curated art, and rooms that feel tailored rather than templated.

The service is intuitive, the energy discreet and the details from the in-room scent to the marble breakfast table. Everything is designed to impress without overstating. For those who prefer calm over chaos but still want the city within reach, this is where we would send them!

SOCIAL

Kissaten bar - https://www.thekissaten.pt

Tucked away in the undergrounds of Lisbon., Kissaten is a one-of-a-kind Japanese listening bar , the first of its kind in Lisbon.

Every element is intentional. From the vintage sound system to the curated vinyl library, it’s a space built around deep listening and thoughtful connection. The whisky selection is genuinely impressive, with rare Japanese labels and a refined cocktail list to match.

More than a bar, Kisserton regularly hosts album listening parties and intimate talks making it a cultural pocket as much as an evening destination. Close your eyes, enjoy the surroundings and let the evening take you down a trip through Japan.

Restaurante Bugio - https://www.instagram.com/bugio_oeiras/

Set along the Oeiras marina, Bugio is where laid-back coastal energy meets elevated Mediterranean dining. With views over the ocean, a crisp interior, and a menu that draws from southern Europe (think grilled fish, seasonal vegetables, and shareable plates) its just the right blend between refined and relaxed.

The cocktails are sharp, the playlist is well considered (if we do say so ourselves) and the water misted terrace is reason enough to stay long after dessert on a hot day!

THE GATHERER RECOMMENDS: Book a late lunch and stay through sunset with a sea view table. You wont regret it.

MUSIC & CULTURE

MARVILA

On Lisbon’s east side, a new kind of cultural district is taking shape and well on its way!

Marvila is Lisbon’s most compelling neighbourhood right now. Once a warehouse district, it’s now a layered mix of creative studios, design-led spaces and thoughtful hospitality, evolving without losing its edge.

At the heart of this shift is The Marvila Collection, anchored by Marvila House, a beautifully restored residence turned cultural space. Calm, architectural, and community-minded, it sets a refined tone for the area’s next chapter.

A street away, Studio Eight is a hub of showcasing Lisbon’s most interesting brands. Part production house, part creative studio.

And then there’s 8 Marvila a multidisciplinary concept space blending fashion, interiors and art under one industrial roof. The kind of place where you browse, linger and connect more atelier than retail. Then at night turns into a music haven showcasing some incredible nights.

THE GATHERER RECOMMENDS: check out the restaurant - Sugoi
Amazing asian food!
https://www.instagram.com/sugoi_lisboa/

Marvila isn’t polished. That’s the point. It’s where Lisbon’s creative direction is quietly being redrawn.

THE GATHERER| ISSUE 2 THE LISBON EDIT