Duas Faces Design Wins Grand Prix with Illustration Capturing the Irreverent Spirit of Café Piolho

Porto-based studio wins Grand Prix in Illustration with a project celebrating the history and spirit of the iconic Café Piolho.

Duas Faces Design has been awarded the Grand Prix in the Illustration category at the 2024 Prémios Lusófonos da Criatividade for its work for the century-old Café Âncora D’Ouro, affectionately known as Café Piolho, in Porto. The prize highlights the studio’s ability to blend humor, boldness, and cultural identity into a piece that conveys the vibrant atmosphere of this city landmark.

The winning illustration, titled “Bibó Piolho, Café Âncora D’Ouro”, was originally created for a simple table napkin, but quickly became a beloved keepsake for customers. Today it also features on postcards and merchandising, extending Piolho’s presence both inside the café and across its digital channels.

Inspired by stories that intertwine with those of the city itself, the artwork recreates the café’s playful chaos and lively spirit. The scene includes iconic characters: university students, the Lions of the nearby square, the traditional Bolhão market vendor, passionate football fans, the grandfather showing his grandson downtown Porto, and of course the latest wave of tourists. “Anyone who visits Piolho immediately recognizes this world and feels like part of the furniture,” the creative team explains.

The project was developed in collaboration with illustrator Cristiana Rodrigues, under the creative direction of founders Sérgio Duarte and Ana Monteiro. According to Sérgio Duarte, personal connection was key: “Piolho is our home too.” This closeness allowed for an organic, charismatic approach, where humor and a touch of sarcasm capture the café’s singular character.

With this award, Duas Faces Design reaffirms its commitment to creating visual solutions that preserve cultural memory and identity, celebrating Porto’s living history through design that makes people smile—and stay awhile.