Between textures and Brutalism: Abzorb 2000 and the new editorial from Quadro Creations

Inspired by the idea of what is perfected in silence, Quadro's new collection proposes an immersion into processes, textures, and choices guided by intention. It is a retrieval of the codes that defined the brand's language — now refined and revisited through precise shapes and structures that communicate with simplicity.

The editorial was held at Casa Abzorb São Paulo, a space that represents the aesthetic proposed by the collection: balancing brutalism with sensitivity, rigidity with functionality. It is in this environment, marked by concrete and natural light, that the Abzorb 2000 assumes a subtle prominence — a sneaker that incorporates innovation and a new perspective on everyday life in metropolitan areas.

We spoke with Lucas Borges, Quadro's creative director, about the paths behind the collection, the challenges of constructing the new designs, and the importance of maintaining coherence without giving up on experimentation.

Check below:

1. Modus Operandi starts from an idea of what is perfected in silence. How did you translate this concept into the shapes, textures, and materials within the collection? 

The theme and the collection are born from an exercise of pause and reflection — from the retrieval of what has been done combined with the desire to continue innovating. The idea of perfecting in silence is reflected in choices that prioritize well-executed simplicity. We brought back materials that have already been tested, carrying the memory of QC, and through this collection, we aim to elevate the details that often go unnoticed — like darts, asymmetrical seams, and specific textures. There is a clear movement towards refinement: less excess, more intention. Each pattern, each seam, and each finish carries this care — time dedicated to improvement.

2. The text mentions that "nothing is lost, everything is reinterpreted." What elements retrieved from previous collections or historical references appear in this new reading? 

This concept of reinterpretation stems from both pieces we have already developed and from revisiting broader visual codes. We brought back designs that were part of the brand's early years — such as the Delta and Default sweatshirts, the Dozer shirt, the Anton and Dafna pants, among others — now under a new perspective. We also revisited the use of certain cuts, proportions, and processes, such as specific laundries and fabric treatments. In addition, there is a constant reinterpretation of classic elements of workwear, utility, and sportswear — always filtered through our current lens, which seeks to translate these codes in a way that is coherent with Quadro's current language.

3. How does Quadro view clothing as "equipment" today — in a scenario where function, style, and identity go hand in hand? 

The idea of clothing as "equipment" stems directly from the philosophy we adopt in the development of our products. The concept of Daily Utility is one of Quadro's pillars, and we understand that clothing is, above all, tools — facilitators of everyday life, enhancing both functionality and the expression of the wearer. For us, clothing needs to respond to the demands of the daily life of what we call the urban youth — someone who constantly navigates through different spaces and contexts. This means developing pieces that offer comfort, durability, and mobility, but that, at the same time, reflect their identity clearly. The equipment of the urban youth goes beyond aesthetics — it is an extension of the wearer, keeping pace with their rhythm, choices, and narrative. We believe this balance between the functional and the symbolic is what sustains the essence of Quadro.

4. Regarding the construction of the new designs — what were the biggest challenges in building these new structures?

It is a somewhat complex question to answer, haha. One of the biggest challenges is always finding this tension point between innovation and coherence. As we develop our own pattern bases, each new proposal requires a complex process — starting with research, moving on to the creation of prototypes, and going through a series of tests until the piece is, in fact, ready for the public. We test volumes, fittings, falls, and, above all, ensure that the piece functions under our philosophy. And often, simplifying a detail can be more challenging than creating something extremely elaborate. It’s that type of process that often goes unnoticed by those who see the finished piece, but for us, it’s where much of our time and energy resides — and, honestly, it’s also one of the parts we enjoy the most when we manage to solve it... haha.

5. How do you balance brand language and innovation within a conceptual collection?

We understand that innovating does not necessarily mean reinventing who we are with each collection. On the contrary — innovation comes from deepening our own language. It’s that idea of understanding to serve. Therefore, all development begins with an exercise in understanding what makes Quadro Quadro — what our signs are, our codes — and how we can re-signify all of this in new proposals. There is a constant filter: if the idea does not converse with this universe, it does not proceed. But within this space, there is a lot of freedom to experiment — whether in materials, techniques, or construction.

6. Even though they are not yet released, the sneakers used in the new editorial gain subtle prominence. How do you see this mix between the collection and them — both retrieving signs and being reinterpreted? 

The choice of silhouette for the editorial was an ideal match. There is a direct conversation — both aesthetically and symbolically — between it and the collection. Just like our pieces, we understand the weight and responsibility of working with the Abzorb 2000, considering everything it carries and symbolizes.
The exercise of revisiting classic codes, reinterpreting materials, and rethinking function in a contemporary manner is present both in the sneakers and in the clothing. The proposal was precisely that: that upon looking at the images, one perceives a coherence in the whole — where products, spaces, and objects dialogue within the same universe of signs and symbols.

7. Casa Abzorb brings a brutalist yet welcoming aesthetic. How does this contrast influence the visual of the collection and the storytelling? 

Brutalism, as both an artistic and design movement, is probably what most closely resembles what Quadro represents — both in concept and in material. There is this idea of apparent structure, of not hiding the processes, and of valuing the raw material for what it is, in its most honest and essential form. At the same time, there is a real concern to generate comfort, warmth, and functionality — both in architecture and in clothing. This is reflected in the collection, whether in constructive details or in designs that respect those who wear them. Our visual narrative is born exactly from this balance: between the raw and the sensitive, the rigid and the functional.