Good Company Books is a newly opened, thoughtful space where literature, design, and community merge, shaped by architect Perrine Velge of Studio PIM, she infuses the space with the timeless spirit of Lisbon’s past cafés—classy with a contemporary twist.
Tucked away on Avenida Visconde Valmor, where a Portuguese furniture shop once stood, it blends nostalgia with modernity. Opened in November, it offers English-language books and a curated selection of Lusophone authors in translation, responding to Lisbon’s growing demand for a refined literary space.
It was shaped with longevity, locality, and purpose in mind. Inspired by Lisbon’s historic cafés like Nicola, Galeto, and Pastelaria Mexicana, the space balances timeless elegance with a contemporary touch. Dark wood bookshelves rise high, communal tables invite conversation, and a marble café counter anchors the room. A striking pistachio green ceiling, lined with Burel wool for acoustic comfort, adds a playful contrast. French artist Henriette Arcelin’s azulejo panels behind the counter reinforce its connection to Lisbon’s artistic heritage.
Beyond books, the bookstore fosters a sense of belonging. A small but thoughtful menu highlights local coffee roasters Olisipo Coffee Roasters, Portuguese wines, and pastries from Isco, including cinnamon, cardamom, and pistachio cakes. Events, book launches, and clubs dedicated to classics, queer fiction, and surrealist literature transform it into a true cultural hub, a "third place" where visitors can linger, read, and connect.
With plans to expand the café into the basement and introduce Sunday openings, Good Company Books is evolving. The long-term vision includes launching a micro-publishing house focused on translating Lusophone literature into English. Good Company Books becomes a space designed for conversation, reflection, and the quiet pleasure of well-curated books—truly needed and well deserved in the bustling city of Lisbon.
