Gonçalo Lavado, was born and raised in Portugal, in a family deeply connected to carpentry and woodworking, with his father Jorge Lavado and grandfather Guilhermino Lavado as guiding figures. Exposure to the world of craftsmanship established the foundation for his lifelong passion. With a background in product design and inspired by his family's legacy and driven by an innate passion for woodworking, it all started with an opportunity to create unique pieces for a vacation home. (www.tapadadossobreiros.pt)
He began creating handcrafted rustic pieces, with an approach to carpentry marked by the harmonious fusion of traditional techniques and contemporary design. Marked by a unique combination of creativity and a deep connection with nature, he nurtured his artistic pursuits, pushing him to explore the boundaries of design and craftsmanship.
As a surf instructor, his passion for the sea and nature inspired him to explore sustainable alternatives in surfboard manufacturing. Curious about the qualities of Paulownia wood, an ultra-light and sustainable material, he began creating surfboards that not only glide through the waves with dexterity but also contribute to environmental sustainability.