INTERIOR OBSESSION:
Casa Utspan in Algarve, Portugal
Birgit sits on the terrace of Casa Utspan, wearing the Split Neck Henley and the Bari Knit Trouser
We caught up with our recent ‘Muse of Now’ and photographer, Birgit Sfat, to see what she has been up to since we last spoke. Her latest creative endeavor is the remodel of her family’s vacation home in the Eastern part of Algarve, Portugal, a picturesque spot known for its charming towns and stunning beaches. Though she’s often behind the lens, Birgit welcomed us into her world at 'Casa Utspan,' the home that became a special place during her twenties and deepened her love for Portugal.
Birgit around Casa Utspan, wearing our Drippy Tissue Cardigan, Meridian Pant, Franke Swing Jacket and Meridian Jean
Nestled on a small hill just outside Moncarapacho, 'Casa Utspan' is surrounded by the charm of everyday Algarve life. Originally built as a vacation house in the 80s, Casa Utspan became a home to Birgit’s family in the 90s when her parents bought the property from friends. Though the home and surrounding area has changed immensely over the past 30 years, it remains a peaceful retreat, offering natural beauty and a chance to unwind away from the city.
Even while living in San Francisco, Birgit and her family visited the property in Portugal every year. In 2019, they decided to relocate to the Algarve full-time, making 'Casa Utspan' their permanent home. Moving from San Francisco to Moncarapacho was a big shift for the family. While the beauty of the area was undeniable, after about a year they realized they missed the energy of city life—the culture, the diversity, and a sense of connection to like-minded people. That’s when they decided to move to Lisbon. Casa Utspan was kept as a weekend and vacation retreat, their second home.
A year ago, they began remodeling the home—simplifying the facade and slightly expanding it to better suit a vacation rental. Maintaining the integrity of the home was of utmost importance during this process, using mainly local materials, such as handcrafted clay tiles from the nearby village of Santa Catarina, where the traditional process has been used for 5,000 years. Many details were crafted by local artisans, like the ceramic sinks and lamps made by friends.
The skate bowl at Casa Utspan was built by Birgit’s husband, Raul, who transported his passion for skating and surfing from California to Portugal
Birgit's Local Recommendations:
Olhão’s whitewashed buildings and chatter at the local markets
Olhão // The neighboring town and Algarve fishing port of Olhão is sometimes called the “cubist city” for its distinctive Moorish-influenced architecture, featuring whitewashed houses and flat rooftops. The town’s market halls are a key part of the locals’ daily lives. The vendors’ chatter, the aroma of fresh produce, and the backdrop of Olhão’s Ria Formosa lagoon create a unique energy that captures the essence of this vibrant town.
Cha Cha Cha, a local favorite in Olhão
Cha Cha Cha // “Serving market fresh food made with love,” Cha Cha Cha serves small plates like Birgit’s favorite beetroot-cured needle fish with sheep’s ricotta, abrunho plums, red onions, cornichons and lemon almonds (pictured).
Estaminé, located on the island of Ria Formosa and only accessible by boat
Estaminé // Located on one of the islands of Ria Formosa, this unique, “off-the-grid” restaurant is located on a true desert island and aims to be a sustainable and harmonious dwelling on the island. The restaurant offers recipes inherited from family and friends of the owners, Isabel and Ze. With a solar energy production system and water treatment plants, Estaminé contributes to the preservation of the delicate ecosystem, as well as providing an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
SHOP BIRGIT'S LOOKS