IN THE STUDIO WITH RENATA BRENHA

IN THE STUDIO WITH RENATA BRENHA

In Renata Brenha’s creative world, fashion and food converge into a multisensory experience where storytelling takes center stage. Her journey began in a shared studio with her partner, chef Hernán de Majo, blending culinary and textile arts into Cocina Studio, a collaborative space that celebrated their shared love for identity and culture. As her career expanded, Brenha moved the fashion side of her business to the Sarabande Foundation, a space founded by Alexander McQueen for emerging artists.

In this conversation, Renata shares insights into the intricate relationship between her creative process and studio environment, where elements of food and fashion interlace. We discuss the rituals that shape her workday, the inspiration behind her material choices, and the collaborative journey of creating Resort 25 alongside Lee Mathews. Brenha reflects on the importance of cultural storytelling through fabric and the tactile exchanges that grounded her vision, from handwritten notes to carefully selected materials. The dialogue delves into the role of identity and community in her designs, as well as the places and experiences in London that continue to inspire her. From the blend of culinary arts in Cocina Studio to her ongoing exploration of craft techniques, Brenha’s reflections offer a window into the artful world she cultivates through both her solo practice and creative partnerships.

RENATA, How does your design studio space reflect your creative process? What elements within it are essential to fostering your work?

For years, I shared my studio with my partner, Hernán de Majo, who’s a chef. Together, we created Cocina Studio, a space where food and fashion came together in a really organic way. Our studio was all about blending our passions and approaching creativity from different angles. We’d talk about menus while researching folklore for my collections, and it felt so natural because both food and fashion are deeply tied to identity and culture.

As the fashion side grew, we moved into a residency at the Sarabande Foundation, a space for emerging artists founded by Alexander McQueen. It’s a bigger setup, but we’ve kept that same spirit. We still run supper clubs and events where fashion and food continue to inspire each other and flourish together.

When working in your studio, do you have any particular rituals or practices that help you connect more deeply with your ideas?

I start my day with the smell of Brazilian coffee in the morning and it’s a little ritual that helps me centre myself and get in tune with my ideas. Beyond that, I need my space to feel airy and open, creating a calm foundation before filling the walls with research, fabric experiments, and creative exploration. It's important for me to begin from a place of tranquillity.

Equally food has always been a part of the studio's energy. In the early days, Hernán and I would cook for the entire team, and lunches were such a special time. Though we’ve grown and can’t do that daily anymore, we still come together on special occasions—whether it’s breakfast as a team or sharing cake and drinks to celebrate finishing a collection. During the photoshoots, we still cook for everyone, and since we’re plant-based, we love experimenting with ingredients. It brings another layer of creativity to what we do, and I think it really helps draw the other creatives we work with into our world through taste as much as through visuals. 

"OUR STUDIO WAS ALL ABOUT BLENDING OUR PASSIONS AND APPROACHING CREATIVITY FROM DIFFERENT ANGLES. WE’D TALK ABOUT MENUS WHILE RESEARCHING FOLKLORE FOR MY COLLECTIONS, AND IT FELT SO NATURAL BECAUSE BOTH FOOD AND FASHION ARE DEEPLY TIED TO IDENTITY AND CULTURE."

— RENATA BRENHA

What role does materiality play in your design process, and how do you approach selecting fabrics and textures for your collections?

Materiality is fundamental to my design process; I rely on the tactile aspect to convey a narrative. I draw inspiration from popular culture, folklore, and artisanal practices, which guide me in selecting materials that can tell these stories or add an unexpected twist to an idea. It’s all about being creative and finding ways to elevate materials, infusing cultural references with new life.

Once I have gathered my research, the experimentation begins—both through draping on the body and collaborating with textile experts and artisans. Their expertise is crucial in pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve with fabrics, materials.

The R25 collection is a testament to both your creative vision and your collaboration with Lee Mathews. How did this partnership come about, and what was the most fulfilling aspect of working together?

Working on the R25 collection with Lee Mathews has been a remarkable experience. When her team first reached out, I was unsure how a partnership between London and Sydney could come together, especially in such a fast-paced, prototype-driven environment. But from our first meeting, it felt like we were kindred spirits. We share a similar ethos and approach to creativity, which made collaboration feel organic and exciting, even across the miles. I’ve always admired Lee’s ability to bring together a fantastic community of women who support each other and contribute to build her vision. Being part of that network has been inspiring and enriching on many levels.

How does the narrative of collaboration shape your designs? In what ways did the R25 collection reflect a fusion of your personal style and Lee Mathews aesthetic?

Collaboration is really woven into my creative process. I have a deep appreciation for craft, and I’m always drawn to those who excel in their art, eager to learn and grow from them. Working with Lee Mathews was a genuine experience for me. Together, we explored ways to blend textural elements and artisanal techniques with her signature more functional styles. It was important to us to create pieces that felt soft and fresh, while still being relevant for women today. I think we found a beautiful balance where the aesthetics merged, and I’m very happy on how the final pieces turned out.

Your brand has a strong identity rooted in the intersection of craft and contemporary design. How do you navigate balancing those influences while staying true to your vision?

I like the idea of making new from old. For me, upcycling and working with recycled materials is about elevating what already exists through craft. I love taking items that aren’t typically seen as fashion—like tablecloths, football jerseys, or beach towels—and reimagining them into designer clothing.

Using ancient practices to address our modern excess is where I find excitement. It feels new and relevant. Also, my Brazilian roots add vibrancy and depth to my work, which I guess brings diversity to the fashion landscape and its narratives.

"From our first meeting, it felt like we were kindred spirits. We share a similar ethos and approach to creativity, which made collaboration feel organic and exciting, even across the miles. I’ve always admired Lee’s ability to bring together a fantastic community of women who support each other and contribute to build her vision. Being part of that network has been inspiring and enriching in many levels."

— RENATA BRENHA

How do you see the relationship between clothing and personal identity, and how do you channel that understanding into the pieces you create?

I suppose it’s 100% connected; clothing is such an integral part of who we are and how we experience the world. My work is personal because it reflects the culture I come from and the references that inspire me. I also see it as a space where I can push aesthetics further and explore new ideas.

Some pieces might feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but that’s often where the excitement lies. It’s about creating something for people to engage with—something they can experience once they wear it and make their own.

Renata wears the Louise Dress.

In what ways did working with Lee Mathews challenge or expand your approach to design?

Lee was so generous and gave me full freedom to truly experiment with textures, techniques and collaborate closely with a pleater master, who I’ve known for years. We explored new ideas and prototypes that I hoped would bring something fresh and exciting to the brand.

This collaboration not only expanded my approach to design but also reminded me of the joy of creative exploration. In the fast-paced world of fashion, it’s rare to have the opportunity to start with a blank canvas, and I’m grateful to Lee for providing that space to be free and curious.

Renata wears the Louise Dress.

Can you share some of the places in London that inspire you creatively? How do these environments influence your designs?

I love the Barbican and find myself there often. It’s an inspiring place for me, not only because of the Brutalist architecture that reminds me of São Paulo, where I’m from, but also for the sense of community it fosters, where art and culture are shared. This blend of structure and creativity, encourages you to experiment with bold ideas of space, shape, materials.

I also spend time at the ICA and go to the cinemas there a lot, as I’m a big fan of independent films. The unique stories and perspectives I encounter there inspire me to bring more narrative into my work.

Food plays a significant role in my creativity as well. Our studio is very close to great, vibrant markets like Broadway market and Victoria park. Lately, I’ve developed a passion for natural wines; I adore their unique personalities, provenance, and the stories behind their makers. Wine bars in East London, like Wilton Way, Hector, and Bruno, are a treat and their atmosphere is so special.

Looking ahead, how do you see your design practice evolving? Are there any new directions or inspirations you're excited to explore in future collections?

I’m eager to further learn and develop craft techniques. I’ve been experimenting a lot with hand smocking and heat pleating and would like to continue to expand into other artisanal process such handprints, crochet, new ways to manipulate fabrics and upcycle ideas, etc.

The collaboration with Lee has been such a special moment for me, allowing us to revisit ideas and introduce fresh techniques that broaden our possibilities in our practices. I’m excited about continuing this rich exchange in the future.

ABOUT COCINA STUDIO

Founded by Argentine chef Hernán De Majo and Brazilian designer Renata Brenha, COCINA Studio is a vibrant fusion of culture, art, and plant-based cuisine, celebrating South American flavours through seasonal British produce. The project offers immersive dining experiences that create a multi-sensory adventure, highlighting the natural tastes of each ingredient and evoking rich memories and cultural connections. Collaborating with diverse artists, COCINA hosts lively supper clubs and events worldwide, enhancing the culinary landscape and promoting a deeper respect for nature. Notably, COCINA Studio was a finalist in the British Food Awards in 2017 in the category of Vegetables.

Renata Brenha @renata.brenha
www.renatabrenha.com
Photography Kirsty Sim

IN THE STUDIO WITH RENATA BRENHA

In Renata Brenha’s creative world, fashion and food converge into a multisensory experience where storytelling takes center stage. Her journey began in a shared studio with her partner, chef Hernán de Majo, blending culinary and textile arts into Cocina Studio, a collaborative space that celebrated their shared love for identity and culture. As her career expanded, Brenha moved the fashion side of her business to the Sarabande Foundation, a space founded by Alexander McQueen for emerging artists.

In this conversation, Renata shares insights into the intricate relationship between her creative process and studio environment, where elements of food and fashion interlace. We discuss the rituals that shape her workday, the inspiration behind her material choices, and the collaborative journey of creating Resort 25 alongside Lee Mathews. Brenha reflects on the importance of cultural storytelling through fabric and the tactile exchanges that grounded her vision, from handwritten notes to carefully selected materials. The dialogue delves into the role of identity and community in her designs, as well as the places and experiences in London that continue to inspire her. From the blend of culinary arts in Cocina Studio to her ongoing exploration of craft techniques, Brenha’s reflections offer a window into the artful world she cultivates through both her solo practice and creative partnerships.

RENATA, How does your design studio space reflect your creative process? What elements within it are essential to fostering your work?

For years, I shared my studio with my partner, Hernán de Majo, who’s a chef. Together, we created Cocina Studio, a space where food and fashion came together in a really organic way. Our studio was all about blending our passions and approaching creativity from different angles. We’d talk about menus while researching folklore for my collections, and it felt so natural because both food and fashion are deeply tied to identity and culture.

As the fashion side grew, we moved into a residency at the Sarabande Foundation, a space for emerging artists founded by Alexander McQueen. It’s a bigger setup, but we’ve kept that same spirit. We still run supper clubs and events where fashion and food continue to inspire each other and flourish together.

When working in your studio, do you have any particular rituals or practices that help you connect more deeply with your ideas?

I start my day with the smell of Brazilian coffee in the morning and it’s a little ritual that helps me centre myself and get in tune with my ideas. Beyond that, I need my space to feel airy and open, creating a calm foundation before filling the walls with research, fabric experiments, and creative exploration. It's important for me to begin from a place of tranquillity.

Equally food has always been a part of the studio's energy. In the early days, Hernán and I would cook for the entire team, and lunches were such a special time. Though we’ve grown and can’t do that daily anymore, we still come together on special occasions—whether it’s breakfast as a team or sharing cake and drinks to celebrate finishing a collection. During the photoshoots, we still cook for everyone, and since we’re plant-based, we love experimenting with ingredients. It brings another layer of creativity to what we do, and I think it really helps draw the other creatives we work with into our world through taste as much as through visuals. 

"OUR STUDIO WAS ALL ABOUT BLENDING OUR PASSIONS AND APPROACHING CREATIVITY FROM DIFFERENT ANGLES. WE’D TALK ABOUT MENUS WHILE RESEARCHING FOLKLORE FOR MY COLLECTIONS, AND IT FELT SO NATURAL BECAUSE BOTH FOOD AND FASHION ARE DEEPLY TIED TO IDENTITY AND CULTURE."

— RENATA BRENHA

What role does materiality play in your design process, and how do you approach selecting fabrics and textures for your collections?

Materiality is fundamental to my design process; I rely on the tactile aspect to convey a narrative. I draw inspiration from popular culture, folklore, and artisanal practices, which guide me in selecting materials that can tell these stories or add an unexpected twist to an idea. It’s all about being creative and finding ways to elevate materials, infusing cultural references with new life.

Once I have gathered my research, the experimentation begins—both through draping on the body and collaborating with textile experts and artisans. Their expertise is crucial in pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve with fabrics, materials.

The R25 collection is a testament to both your creative vision and your collaboration with Lee Mathews. How did this partnership come about, and what was the most fulfilling aspect of working together?

Working on the R25 collection with Lee Mathews has been a remarkable experience. When her team first reached out, I was unsure how a partnership between London and Sydney could come together, especially in such a fast-paced, prototype-driven environment. But from our first meeting, it felt like we were kindred spirits. We share a similar ethos and approach to creativity, which made collaboration feel organic and exciting, even across the miles. I’ve always admired Lee’s ability to bring together a fantastic community of women who support each other and contribute to build her vision. Being part of that network has been inspiring and enriching on many levels.

How does the narrative of collaboration shape your designs? In what ways did the R25 collection reflect a fusion of your personal style and Lee Mathews aesthetic?

Collaboration is really woven into my creative process. I have a deep appreciation for craft, and I’m always drawn to those who excel in their art, eager to learn and grow from them. Working with Lee Mathews was a genuine experience for me. Together, we explored ways to blend textural elements and artisanal techniques with her signature more functional styles. It was important to us to create pieces that felt soft and fresh, while still being relevant for women today. I think we found a beautiful balance where the aesthetics merged, and I’m very happy on how the final pieces turned out.

Your brand has a strong identity rooted in the intersection of craft and contemporary design. How do you navigate balancing those influences while staying true to your vision?

I like the idea of making new from old. For me, upcycling and working with recycled materials is about elevating what already exists through craft. I love taking items that aren’t typically seen as fashion—like tablecloths, football jerseys, or beach towels—and reimagining them into designer clothing.

Using ancient practices to address our modern excess is where I find excitement. It feels new and relevant. Also, my Brazilian roots add vibrancy and depth to my work, which I guess brings diversity to the fashion landscape and its narratives.

"From our first meeting, it felt like we were kindred spirits. We share a similar ethos and approach to creativity, which made collaboration feel organic and exciting, even across the miles. I’ve always admired Lee’s ability to bring together a fantastic community of women who support each other and contribute to build her vision. Being part of that network has been inspiring and enriching in many levels."

— RENATA BRENHA

How do you see the relationship between clothing and personal identity, and how do you channel that understanding into the pieces you create?

I suppose it’s 100% connected; clothing is such an integral part of who we are and how we experience the world. My work is personal because it reflects the culture I come from and the references that inspire me. I also see it as a space where I can push aesthetics further and explore new ideas.

Some pieces might feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but that’s often where the excitement lies. It’s about creating something for people to engage with—something they can experience once they wear it and make their own.

Renata wears the Louise Dress.

In what ways did working with Lee Mathews challenge or expand your approach to design?

Lee was so generous and gave me full freedom to truly experiment with textures, techniques and collaborate closely with a pleater master, who I’ve known for years. We explored new ideas and prototypes that I hoped would bring something fresh and exciting to the brand.

This collaboration not only expanded my approach to design but also reminded me of the joy of creative exploration. In the fast-paced world of fashion, it’s rare to have the opportunity to start with a blank canvas, and I’m grateful to Lee for providing that space to be free and curious.

Renata wears the Louise Dress.

Can you share some of the places in London that inspire you creatively? How do these environments influence your designs?

I love the Barbican and find myself there often. It’s an inspiring place for me, not only because of the Brutalist architecture that reminds me of São Paulo, where I’m from, but also for the sense of community it fosters, where art and culture are shared. This blend of structure and creativity, encourages you to experiment with bold ideas of space, shape, materials.

I also spend time at the ICA and go to the cinemas there a lot, as I’m a big fan of independent films. The unique stories and perspectives I encounter there inspire me to bring more narrative into my work.

Food plays a significant role in my creativity as well. Our studio is very close to great, vibrant markets like Broadway market and Victoria park. Lately, I’ve developed a passion for natural wines; I adore their unique personalities, provenance, and the stories behind their makers. Wine bars in East London, like Wilton Way, Hector, and Bruno, are a treat and their atmosphere is so special.

Looking ahead, how do you see your design practice evolving? Are there any new directions or inspirations you're excited to explore in future collections?

I’m eager to further learn and develop craft techniques. I’ve been experimenting a lot with hand smocking and heat pleating and would like to continue to expand into other artisanal process such handprints, crochet, new ways to manipulate fabrics and upcycle ideas, etc.

The collaboration with Lee has been such a special moment for me, allowing us to revisit ideas and introduce fresh techniques that broaden our possibilities in our practices. I’m excited about continuing this rich exchange in the future.

ABOUT COCINA STUDIO

Founded by Argentine chef Hernán De Majo and Brazilian designer Renata Brenha, COCINA Studio is a vibrant fusion of culture, art, and plant-based cuisine, celebrating South American flavours through seasonal British produce. The project offers immersive dining experiences that create a multi-sensory adventure, highlighting the natural tastes of each ingredient and evoking rich memories and cultural connections. Collaborating with diverse artists, COCINA hosts lively supper clubs and events worldwide, enhancing the culinary landscape and promoting a deeper respect for nature. Notably, COCINA Studio was a finalist in the British Food Awards in 2017 in the category of Vegetables.

Renata Brenha @renata.brenha
www.renatabrenha.com
Photography Kirsty Sim

IN THE STUDIO WITH RENATA BRENHA

In Renata Brenha’s creative world, fashion and food converge into a multisensory experience where storytelling takes center stage. Her journey began in a shared studio with her partner, chef Hernán de Majo, blending culinary and textile arts into Cocina Studio, a collaborative space that celebrated their shared love for identity and culture. As her career expanded, Brenha moved the fashion side of her business to the Sarabande Foundation, a space founded by Alexander McQueen for emerging artists.

In this conversation, Renata shares insights into the intricate relationship between her creative process and studio environment, where elements of food and fashion interlace. We discuss the rituals that shape her workday, the inspiration behind her material choices, and the collaborative journey of creating Resort 25 alongside Lee Mathews. Brenha reflects on the importance of cultural storytelling through fabric and the tactile exchanges that grounded her vision, from handwritten notes to carefully selected materials. The dialogue delves into the role of identity and community in her designs, as well as the places and experiences in London that continue to inspire her. From the blend of culinary arts in Cocina Studio to her ongoing exploration of craft techniques, Brenha’s reflections offer a window into the artful world she cultivates through both her solo practice and creative partnerships.

RENATA, How does your design studio space reflect your creative process? What elements within it are essential to fostering your work?

For years, I shared my studio with my partner, Hernán de Majo, who’s a chef. Together, we created Cocina Studio, a space where food and fashion came together in a really organic way. Our studio was all about blending our passions and approaching creativity from different angles. We’d talk about menus while researching folklore for my collections, and it felt so natural because both food and fashion are deeply tied to identity and culture.

As the fashion side grew, we moved into a residency at the Sarabande Foundation, a space for emerging artists founded by Alexander McQueen. It’s a bigger setup, but we’ve kept that same spirit. We still run supper clubs and events where fashion and food continue to inspire each other and flourish together.

When working in your studio, do you have any particular rituals or practices that help you connect more deeply with your ideas?

I start my day with the smell of Brazilian coffee in the morning and it’s a little ritual that helps me centre myself and get in tune with my ideas. Beyond that, I need my space to feel airy and open, creating a calm foundation before filling the walls with research, fabric experiments, and creative exploration. It's important for me to begin from a place of tranquillity.

Equally food has always been a part of the studio's energy. In the early days, Hernán and I would cook for the entire team, and lunches were such a special time. Though we’ve grown and can’t do that daily anymore, we still come together on special occasions—whether it’s breakfast as a team or sharing cake and drinks to celebrate finishing a collection. During the photoshoots, we still cook for everyone, and since we’re plant-based, we love experimenting with ingredients. It brings another layer of creativity to what we do, and I think it really helps draw the other creatives we work with into our world through taste as much as through visuals. 

"OUR STUDIO WAS ALL ABOUT BLENDING OUR PASSIONS AND APPROACHING CREATIVITY FROM DIFFERENT ANGLES. WE’D TALK ABOUT MENUS WHILE RESEARCHING FOLKLORE FOR MY COLLECTIONS, AND IT FELT SO NATURAL BECAUSE BOTH FOOD AND FASHION ARE DEEPLY TIED TO IDENTITY AND CULTURE."

— RENATA BRENHA

What role does materiality play in your design process, and how do you approach selecting fabrics and textures for your collections?

Materiality is fundamental to my design process; I rely on the tactile aspect to convey a narrative. I draw inspiration from popular culture, folklore, and artisanal practices, which guide me in selecting materials that can tell these stories or add an unexpected twist to an idea. It’s all about being creative and finding ways to elevate materials, infusing cultural references with new life.

Once I have gathered my research, the experimentation begins—both through draping on the body and collaborating with textile experts and artisans. Their expertise is crucial in pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve with fabrics, materials.

The R25 collection is a testament to both your creative vision and your collaboration with Lee Mathews. How did this partnership come about, and what was the most fulfilling aspect of working together?

Working on the R25 collection with Lee Mathews has been a remarkable experience. When her team first reached out, I was unsure how a partnership between London and Sydney could come together, especially in such a fast-paced, prototype-driven environment. But from our first meeting, it felt like we were kindred spirits. We share a similar ethos and approach to creativity, which made collaboration feel organic and exciting, even across the miles. I’ve always admired Lee’s ability to bring together a fantastic community of women who support each other and contribute to build her vision. Being part of that network has been inspiring and enriching on many levels.

How does the narrative of collaboration shape your designs? In what ways did the R25 collection reflect a fusion of your personal style and Lee Mathews aesthetic?

Collaboration is really woven into my creative process. I have a deep appreciation for craft, and I’m always drawn to those who excel in their art, eager to learn and grow from them. Working with Lee Mathews was a genuine experience for me. Together, we explored ways to blend textural elements and artisanal techniques with her signature more functional styles. It was important to us to create pieces that felt soft and fresh, while still being relevant for women today. I think we found a beautiful balance where the aesthetics merged, and I’m very happy on how the final pieces turned out.

Your brand has a strong identity rooted in the intersection of craft and contemporary design. How do you navigate balancing those influences while staying true to your vision?

I like the idea of making new from old. For me, upcycling and working with recycled materials is about elevating what already exists through craft. I love taking items that aren’t typically seen as fashion—like tablecloths, football jerseys, or beach towels—and reimagining them into designer clothing.

Using ancient practices to address our modern excess is where I find excitement. It feels new and relevant. Also, my Brazilian roots add vibrancy and depth to my work, which I guess brings diversity to the fashion landscape and its narratives.

"From our first meeting, it felt like we were kindred spirits. We share a similar ethos and approach to creativity, which made collaboration feel organic and exciting, even across the miles. I’ve always admired Lee’s ability to bring together a fantastic community of women who support each other and contribute to build her vision. Being part of that network has been inspiring and enriching in many levels."

— RENATA BRENHA

How do you see the relationship between clothing and personal identity, and how do you channel that understanding into the pieces you create?

I suppose it’s 100% connected; clothing is such an integral part of who we are and how we experience the world. My work is personal because it reflects the culture I come from and the references that inspire me. I also see it as a space where I can push aesthetics further and explore new ideas.

Some pieces might feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but that’s often where the excitement lies. It’s about creating something for people to engage with—something they can experience once they wear it and make their own.

Renata wears the Louise Dress.

In what ways did working with Lee Mathews challenge or expand your approach to design?

Lee was so generous and gave me full freedom to truly experiment with textures, techniques and collaborate closely with a pleater master, who I’ve known for years. We explored new ideas and prototypes that I hoped would bring something fresh and exciting to the brand.

This collaboration not only expanded my approach to design but also reminded me of the joy of creative exploration. In the fast-paced world of fashion, it’s rare to have the opportunity to start with a blank canvas, and I’m grateful to Lee for providing that space to be free and curious.

Renata wears the Louise Dress.

Can you share some of the places in London that inspire you creatively? How do these environments influence your designs?

I love the Barbican and find myself there often. It’s an inspiring place for me, not only because of the Brutalist architecture that reminds me of São Paulo, where I’m from, but also for the sense of community it fosters, where art and culture are shared. This blend of structure and creativity, encourages you to experiment with bold ideas of space, shape, materials.

I also spend time at the ICA and go to the cinemas there a lot, as I’m a big fan of independent films. The unique stories and perspectives I encounter there inspire me to bring more narrative into my work.

Food plays a significant role in my creativity as well. Our studio is very close to great, vibrant markets like Broadway market and Victoria park. Lately, I’ve developed a passion for natural wines; I adore their unique personalities, provenance, and the stories behind their makers. Wine bars in East London, like Wilton Way, Hector, and Bruno, are a treat and their atmosphere is so special.

Looking ahead, how do you see your design practice evolving? Are there any new directions or inspirations you're excited to explore in future collections?

I’m eager to further learn and develop craft techniques. I’ve been experimenting a lot with hand smocking and heat pleating and would like to continue to expand into other artisanal process such handprints, crochet, new ways to manipulate fabrics and upcycle ideas, etc.

The collaboration with Lee has been such a special moment for me, allowing us to revisit ideas and introduce fresh techniques that broaden our possibilities in our practices. I’m excited about continuing this rich exchange in the future.

ABOUT COCINA STUDIO

Founded by Argentine chef Hernán De Majo and Brazilian designer Renata Brenha, COCINA Studio is a vibrant fusion of culture, art, and plant-based cuisine, celebrating South American flavours through seasonal British produce. The project offers immersive dining experiences that create a multi-sensory adventure, highlighting the natural tastes of each ingredient and evoking rich memories and cultural connections. Collaborating with diverse artists, COCINA hosts lively supper clubs and events worldwide, enhancing the culinary landscape and promoting a deeper respect for nature. Notably, COCINA Studio was a finalist in the British Food Awards in 2017 in the category of Vegetables.

Renata Brenha @renata.brenha
www.renatabrenha.com
Photography Kirsty Sim