When Renata Tolentino left Brazil and moved to London, she felt the need to carry a piece of her country with her.

With no particular plan in mind, she spoke with designer friends and asked for samples of their work to take along. She collected unique pieces that reflected the culture and people of the city where she grew up and traveled with a suitcase filled with crafts, knowing she would come up with a space for them in her new life.

A year later, ‘The Samambaia’ was born. A marketplace for South American designs in the UK, featuring its most iconic and authentic materials. Its first retail spot was the Broadway Market in East London, with all its eclectic mixture of styles and cultures. Then, the project went online following the initial motivation of taking the concept further.

You can still find us every Saturday at Broadway Market or feel free to browse our exciting online store at any time!