As we celebrate International Women's Day, we look back on Carla's journey with the company, from her early years to the present day.
How did you get started at Espaço Libris?
When I joined Espaço Libris in 2008, we were a small team taking our first steps in the decoration market. At the time, I was solely responsible for Soft Furnishings.
It was an exciting but demanding challenge because, over time, we ended up with two stores to run and we were sometimes exporting to other countries.
But with passion and hard work, anything is possible.
Since you spent some time on your own in Soft Furnishings, do you consider that the biggest challenge you've overcome? Or have there been bigger ones?
That was undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges I faced, but even so, I think some hotel projects were on another scale altogether.
We are real perfectionists; we like to make things, and to make them well. Some of the hotels we worked on were very complex in terms of textiles.
Three windows, each with three different types of curtains, and often each window had different measurements.
As our curtains don't come in standard sizes and are made to measure for each client, we've also had windows more than 7 metres high (bearing in mind that the norm is between 2.5 m and 2.75 m) and very heavy fabrics, which made it really challenging.
How has Espaço Libris supported you in your career?
Investing in production equipment and in our people has always been a priority for Espaço Libris.
Buying, for example, new sewing machines made my day-to-day work much easier. The growth and development of the team also helped us achieve better results.
What do you enjoy making most?
Babies' and children's rooms, because they are always unique; no two are ever the same.
Every family has its own personal taste and always brings different ideas.
Why does Espaço Libris stand out in the textiles sector?
I think it's partly down to what I've already mentioned: attention to detail, personalisation and real quality in the materials.
Clients come into the store with ideas in mind, however “crazy” and unique they may be, and we bring them to life.
It's always exciting. I've made everything from tents for children's rooms and animal-shaped cushions to curtains trimmed with feathers.
We never turn down a good challenge.
How does it feel to know that thousands of people have textiles made by you?
It's a source of pride to work for people who are happy, come back and recommend us. We always want to make homes more cheerful, more sophisticated and, of course, more personal.
Now a question more related to today. How do you feel, as a woman, working at Espaço Libris?
I feel heard.
We are a diverse team that promotes equality.
We are made to feel welcome, like a family! That's largely thanks to the inclusive team events we hold throughout the year, from dinners to outdoor adventures.
What advice would you give other women who want to pursue this career?
This skill needs to be valued, because it is essential to decorating a space.
The younger generation isn't really investing in this profession, which is a shame.
I feel that's because they don't know how beautiful and varied this work is.
There's always something new to do and we never know what to expect!
To finish, what message would you like to share on Women's Day?
Keep fighting for what you want and what you love, and never give up.
I've been working here for more than 15 years, and when you love what you do, you never tire of it.
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