Behind the scenes at British House Rio

British House Rio is Team GB’s headquarters for Rio 2016 and I’ve been sent some amazing shots of Britain’s base throughout the Olympics in Brazil. The iconic Parque Lage building has some British history as the land was purchased by English landscape architect, John Thyndale, who designed and planted most of the existing gardens in 1840. Then in the 1920s, the land became the residence of industrialist Henrique Lage and his wife, opera singer Gabriella Besanzoni who built the house. A few years later, they commissioned Italian architect Mario Vodrel to redesign the property with interior paintings by Salvador Payols Sabaté.

Sitting just below Christ the Redeemer, within the Copacabana cluster of the Games, British House Rio is the UK’s home away from home throughout the Olympics.

As homeware sponsor for Team GB, DFS have kitted British House Rio out with their limited edition Britannia range. Designed with comfort and tranquillity in mind, it’ll help Team GB athletes rest and recover while at the Games. Designed and handmade in DFS’ Derbyshire factory, the striking new design is intended to establish a homely feel in the historic surroundings; a relaxing environment for athletes when they are away from the competition arena.

With breathtaking views of the lush surroundings, Parque Lage is just as inspiring inside. Boasting an open courtyard, picturesque archways, and imposing collonades; the team behind British House have focused on making the interiors as welcoming as possible to provide a peaceful environment away from the games.

DFS beige Team GB sofa

DFS beige Team GB chair

British House Rio is a celebration of British design and craftsmanship and DFS have taken the iconic chesterfield sofa and given it a contemporary finish. The fabric is also British and woven in Lancashire mill. This Britannia range of sofas and armchairs has more depth to allow you and our athletes to kick back and relax. Can’t you just imagine all the athletes sitting around watching the games on the big screens? Or Jason Kenny and Laura Trott just chilling with a caipirinha or two? Ok probably not… but it’s a nice thought!

Natalia xo