Jonathan Amar Studio

Since 1989

Handcrafted lighting & furniture — Morocco × Portugal

Founded in 1989 by Jonathan Amar, our multidisciplinary studio unites Moroccan and Portuguese craftsmanship to design and produce bespoke lighting, furniture and objects with a clear identity. Each creation embraces a contemporary outlook on a rich heritage. We honor the beauty of making: Morocco’s rattan vannerie, leather saddle-stitch, and metalwork, combined with Portugal’s renowned lighting ateliers and glassmakers. Each piece balances noble materials and intricate techniques with architectural clarity—made to order, customizable in finish and scale and shipped worldwide.

PORTRAIT OF AN ICONOCLASTIC AND INCLASSABLE DESIGNER-ARTIST 

INTERIOR DESIGN

A man in a gray blazer and gray shirt sitting against a white background with a gold desk lamp nearby.

Born in Rabat in 1955 from a happy blend of France and Morocco, Jonathan Amar was one of the first designers to export Moroccan craftsmanship abroad. His eclectic journey, stemming from both shores of the Mediterranean and enriched by his travels around the world in his 20s, undoubtedly makes him one of the most unique designer-creators of his generation.

As a precursor to the Baroque New Age and Ethno-Chic movements, he creates spaces where exceptional decor is essential. Indeed, his talent lies in merging diverse - even disparate - elements into unprecedented aesthetic wholes. His distinctive style has spawned movements adopted by numerous artists and decorators, thanks to his ability to integrate projects of all kinds with a strong cultural awareness and mastery of lighting effects.

In 1985, at just 30 years old, Hubert Boukobza entrusted him with the artistic direction of the Bains Douches. This venue was a true institution of Parisian nightlife, a meeting place for the international social and artistic elite, ranking among the top ten most famous establishments worldwide. It was frequented by figures such as David Bowie, Coluche, Mick Jagger, Iggy Pop, Madonna, as well as international models and cinema legends. This melting pot made the Bains the most famous place on the planet.  Read More 

An orange ceramic table lamp with a beige lampshade on a round, speckled surface.

CRAFTSMANSHIP

We produce between Portugal and Morocco, assigning each project to the atelier best suited to its techniques. Hand-blown glass and advanced lighting work are crafted in Portugal; rattan vannerie, leather saddle-stitch, and hand engravings are realized in Morocco. This binational workflow meets international production and quality standards.

Built in small series and made to order, each design can be adapted in finish and scale for residential and hospitality projects.

A gold vase with a floral arrangement of red roses and green ferns on a round table.

OBJECTS

gaellele boulicaut mondrian

DESIGN CONSULTANCY

A cozy corner with a brown leather armchair, a small wooden side table, and a decorative mirror on the wall. Sunlight filters through a sheer white curtain over a large window, and a sliding door with a wooden finish is partially visible.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

At Jonathan Amar Studio, our philosophy is rooted in a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and innovation. With over 35 years of expertise in decorative arts and interior design, we create bespoke, meticulously crafted designs that blend functionality with striking beauty.

Our collaborative process spans continents from our office in Paris to ateliers in Rabat and Leiria. We foster a Morocco & Portugal craft ecosystem that perpetuates and evolves cultural heritage, refining traditional methods for today’s forms and standards.

Each creation is tailored to the client and project. Every piece is made to order, reflecting our commitment to thoughtful detail and lasting use.

Close-up of a gold-colored table leg and base with engraved swirl patterns on a black background.
Ceiling light fixture with a white conical shade and a wooden slatted circular band around the bottom.

LIGHTING

Interior scene with a blue chair, a set of three ZEL AFELLA small round tables with gold bases and dark tops, a white table lamp, abstract art on the wall, and decorative objects on the tables.

FURNITURE