We are excited to share an incredible collaboration we were a part of—a short documentary by Amorim Cork that beautifully showcases the work of Hugo Tornelo and Rita Gonzalez and their comic book, “Histórias à Sombra do Montado.” Join us on this heartfelt journey that began four years ago, as we helped Hugo and Rita find their dream property and witnessed the growth of, what will be, their resilient family farm.
Our adventure started with a shared vision—to create a sustainable and thriving family farm. After exploring various options, they discovered and we agreed on a breathtaking 20-hectare land near Aldeia do Cano, Cercal. It was a perfect fit, and we knew it was the place where their dreams could come true. This decision laid the foundation for a comprehensive masterplan that guided our transformative journey.
Building Resilience at “Pexoira”:
Once the property was chosen, we got to work. The regenerative masterplan was developed during 12 months. The initial phase of our work at “Pexoura” began shortly after, where we implemented various keyline practices such as constructing ponds and designing new roads. These measures were aimed at optimizing water management and accessibility. Additionally, we are currently in the third year of our biomass management plan, which focuses on reducing fire hazards while promoting water infiltration and soil enrichment. Throughout the process, we have intervened in the montado system multiple times to foster tree growth and safeguard the soil within this unique ecosystem.
A Proud Collaboration: The Short Documentary:
This year, we were invited to be part of a captivating video project that showcases the inspiring journey of Hugo and Rita. The documentary beautifully captures the transformative power of regenerative design and the deep connection to the land. We are incredibly proud of the outcome and the collaboration that made it possible.
Discover More: Visit the Official Website and Download the Comic Book:
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of “Histórias à Sombra do Montado.” Visit the official website to explore the engaging story and download the full comic book for free. It’s a beautifully illustrated tale that brings to life Hugo and Rita’s vision and the regenerative practices that are transforming what will be their family farm.
We are very grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Hugo Tornelo and Rita Gonzalez, as we continue to bring our masterplan to life at “Pexoura,” we are driven by a shared vision of nurturing the land and fostering a thriving ecosystem. Join us in celebrating the power of regenerative design as we work towards a brighter future for ourselves and the environment.
And now a brief inspiring text from Amorim Cork:
“We believe that cork can change the world – starting with the moment that cork enters someone’s life, inspiring them to create, invent, innovate. Cork Changed Me is a project that aims to compile a set of stories about artists, creatives, entrepreneurs, inventors or people in general for whom cork has had a positive impact on their daily lives, or in their art or businesses. People who have used cork to create a brand, product or innovative solution, and others who have adopted cork in their homes and daily lives. The third episode offers an ode to the Cork Oak Forest (“montado”) and to Portuguese forests in general. Hugo Tornelo and Rita Gonzalez present their «Histórias à Sombra do Montado» (Stories in the Shade of the Cork Oak Forest), a cultural and literary design project developed 100% in Portuguese, which traces a perfect dichotomy between the city and the countryside. This comic book project is inspired by the landscape of the Alentejo’s Montado cork oak forest, benefiting from the masterful skills of Portuguese designers and writers, in which we discover love stories, intrigues and disappointments. This episode also introduces us to the new life experiences of the two designers in 2023, as they exchange the hectic life of Lisbon for a 20-hectare area of cork oak forest in Cercal, in the coastal part of the Alentejo region. Watch the third episode of #corkchangedme and discover how an incredible natural material has had such an impact on Rita and Hugo’s life project.”
