Extreme close-up of a high-contrast architectural wayfinding sign, machined aluminum lettering mounted on a raw concrete surface, sharp direct sunlight casting crisp geometric shadows, 35mm lens, monochrome.
Extreme close-up of a high-contrast architectural wayfinding sign, machined aluminum lettering mounted on a raw concrete surface, sharp direct sunlight casting crisp geometric shadows, 35mm lens, monochrome.
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ABOUT

For over 20 years, I've designed brand identities and taken them all the way into the physical world - from stationery and print to signage, vehicles, storefronts and retail environments.
I run my own practice, CATO, based in Portugal, and I'm now looking to bring that same work to agencies and brands beyond it.

Translating brand systems into physical scale.

A technical architectural drawing of a signage system overlaid on a monochrome photograph of a modern gallery interior, sharp lines, high contrast, clean minimalist composition.
A technical architectural drawing of a signage system overlaid on a monochrome photograph of a modern gallery interior, sharp lines, high contrast, clean minimalist composition.

THE METHOD

From concept to installation.

Understanding materials, production and installation isn't theoretical for me — I've spent two decades specifying, coordinating fabricators and installers, and applying materials myself, including cut and printed vinyl.

Every identity I design is shaped with its physical reality in mind from day one, so it holds up once it leaves the screen.

TIMELINE

Journey

Twenty years, one thread.

Since 2005

Since 2018

Since 2014

Founder & creative director, CATO

Design consultant, NERLEI

Co-founder, Base Cowork

Brand identity, print & editorial, signage, retail environments and vehicle graphics for clients across Portugal — from concept through production and on-site application.

Helping new entrepreneurs launch with a strong visual identity.

Shaping a shared physical environment for a community of professionals.

2005 – 2007

2004 – 2005

1999 – 2004

Graphic designer, Atelier Ricardo Santos

Graphic designer, Surphace Design

Graphic design degree, ESAD-CR

Shop windows, illuminated signage, vehicle graphics — the foundation of physical execution.

Branding and editorial design within a creative agency team.

Including an Erasmus semester at Nottingham Trent University.