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Functional Art Rooted in Latin American Heritage

At Portals Collection, we transform repurposed wood with deep cultural and historical significance from Latin American countries into unique, functional art and artistic furniture. Every piece tells a story—some are further elevated by local artists, who intervene and infuse their heritage and inspiration into the final design. Our collection celebrates the fusion of tradition, sustainability, and creativity.

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Our Artisan Creations: Functional Art with a Story

At Portals Collection, we specialize in transforming reclaimed wood sourced from culturally and historically significant sites across Latin America into functional art and bespoke furniture. Each piece tells a unique story, honoring its origins and the traditions of its homeland. Our skilled artisans carefully preserve the character of the wood, while select pieces are further enhanced by collaborating artists who infuse their own cultural inspirations into the designs. The result: one-of-a-kind items that blend history, artistry, and utility, giving new life and purpose to materials rich with heritage.

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Lisandro Gordillo

Lisandro always had the desire but didn't have the opportunity to bring this project into fruition. He had started about 13 years ago, with the desire to work with wood. He started playing around, making lamps, and little birdhouses. He managed to collect a lot of logs and roots from the bottom of Lake Izabal, with which he's made lamps, decorations, etc.

During a trip to Mexico he had the pleasure of visiting the workshop of an artist named Esteban Chapital, who recycles all wood to use in the pieces he makes. Lisandro was impressed by all the pieces Esteban made. Inspired by his experience on his trip to Mexico, when he returned to Guatemala, he started looking for antique pieces and then he began to play with his imagination and the recovered pieces.

All these pieces have their own history. They come from the highland villages, from Guatemala, from Nebaj. Quetzaltenango, from Cunén; from different places. In short all these villages have their own history.

One of the pieces of the Portals Collection is made out of the wood that was recovered from the first bridge that was built over the Salamá River. It was built in 1885. Recently, about four of five years ago, it was demolished to build the new bridge and he manage to salvage approximately half of the beams that he used in that special piece. He's also made different pieces with that wood for sideboards, benches, and other pieces.

Whenever he sees something beautiful, he collects it. Many people don't understand why he does it, and say he's collecting trash; but that "trash" is transformed into something beautiful that is appreciated by almost everyone.

Connect with Portals Collection

Have questions about our artisan furniture or want to inquire about a custom piece? Get in touch to learn more about our unique creations crafted from culturally significant, repurposed wood from Latin America. We're here to help you bring functional art into your space.