In an era where shopping has become increasingly transactional, Paper Boat Collective reimagines retail as an experience steeped in mindful consumption, design sensibility, and artisan connection. Located in the heart of Goa, this exceptional lifestyle concept store offers an inspiring alternative to mass-market commercialism by championing ethical retail, handcrafted Indian artistry, and conscious living.
More than just a store, Paper Boat Collective is a movement—an immersive space where every product tells a story, every display celebrates sustainability, and every customer is invited to become a conscious participant in shaping a better world through the art of buying better.
Founded by acclaimed fashion designer Savio Jon Fernandes, Paper Boat Collective brings together the richness of Indian craftsmanship and contemporary global design language. Operating out of a beautifully restored Portuguese home in Sangolda, Goa, the store doubles as a community hub and design laboratory.
Paper Boat Collective is guided by core retail principles that resonate throughout the store:
🌿 Sustainability as Foundation
Products are curated with minimal environmental impact—emphasizing natural materials, upcycled goods, biodegradable packaging, and low-carbon production.
🤝 Artisan Empowerment
Working directly with rural craftspeople, women’s cooperatives, and indigenous communities to ensure fair compensation and long-term partnerships.
🧵 Craft Meets Contemporary
Bridging heritage and modernity, the store features traditional Indian craft presented through a global design lens.
🧘 Mindful Consumption
Encouraging shoppers to make intentional purchases that last, matter, and reflect conscious values.
Paper Boat Collective is a carefully curated, multi-sensory space segmented into thematic zones. Each collection is designed to support a conscious lifestyle, without compromising on elegance or functionality.
A soulful collection of artisan-crafted furniture and home décor, handcrafted with natural, upcycled, or reclaimed materials.
Product Highlights:
Reclaimed wood console tables, bookshelves, and benches
Bamboo floor lamps and terracotta table lamps
Handwoven throws, cushion covers, and rugs
Ceramic vases, planters, incense holders, and sculpture
Artisanal mirrors, wall hangings, and woven baskets
📌 Design Signature: Earthy tones, minimalist lines, and tactile surfaces that add warmth and character to interiors.
The fashion segment promotes slow fashion with a focus on comfort, elegance, and longevity.
Available Pieces:
Khadi tunics, linen shirts, and breathable organic cotton dresses
Gender-neutral pants and unstructured jackets
Naturally dyed saris and handwoven stoles
Textile jewelry, clutches, and functional totes
🪡 Craft Techniques: Ajrakh, Dabu, Block printing, Ikat, Jamdani, and Shibori.
Perfect for gifting or personal joy, this section features everyday objects infused with design thinking.
Curated Selections:
Eco-leather wallets, jute sling bags, and artisanal pouches
Recycled brass and thread jewelry
Stoneware soap trays, copper tumblers, and key trays
Upcycled notebooks, leather-bound journals, and bookmarks
🎨 Aesthetic: Understated luxury with an earthy palette and organic finishes.
The creative corner inspires journaling, art, planning, and storytelling.
Top Picks:
Hand-bound diaries with recycled paper
Brass pens and wooden mechanical pencils
Calligraphy sets and organic ink kits
Printmaking and letterpress cards
Sketchbooks for artists and travel logs
📝 Ideal for: Writers, architects, illustrators, and design thinkers.
Transform meals into meditative experiences with handcrafted kitchenware rooted in Indian craft.
Selections Include:
Glazed ceramic mugs, hand-painted teapots
Palm-leaf serving trays and wood cutting boards
Organic cotton napkins, placemats, and table runners
Copper bottles, spice jars, and oil dispensers
🫖 Vibe: Functional minimalism with traditional influence.
A child-friendly curation of non-toxic, safe, and creative play objects.
Product List:
Hand-stitched soft toys and rag dolls
Wooden puzzles, stackers, and pull toys
Children's storybooks from indie Indian publishers
Educational craft kits made by women-led groups
Baby quilts, bibs, and nursery accessories
🌈 Philosophy: Play with purpose, learning through design.
The store layout is immersive, flowing, and tactile, making each room feel like a story waiting to be discovered.
| Space | Mood | Signature Details |
|---|---|---|
| Entrance | Inviting, serene | Natural light, handmade signage |
| Furniture Room | Grounded, rustic | Low seating, reclaimed wood displays |
| Apparel Section | Open, breathable | Woven hangers, bamboo racks |
| Stationery Nook | Quiet, focused | Desk corners, typewriters, scribble pads |
| Children’s Area | Colorful, playful | Floor toys, bookshelf walls |
| Checkout | Relaxed, minimal | Recycled wood counter, seed paper bags |
Every aspect of Paper Boat Collective's retail service is embedded in earth-first thinking.
Zero single-use plastic policy
Use of handloom cloth and upcycled paper for packaging
Tags made from seed paper and recycled board
Upcycled display furniture and shelves
LED lighting and natural ventilation in-store
Profiles of artisan groups and their geographies
Name tags highlighting the maker on product cards
Stories behind material origin and craft method
Block printing & natural dyeing
Fabric weaving and loom showcases
Bookbinding & journaling tutorials
Pottery wheel sessions
Slow fashion brands
Indigenous art showcases
Sustainable product launches
Indian design collectives
Events transform the space into an experiential learning zone, making shoppers part of the larger design and craft journey.
Paper Boat Collective goes beyond commerce to build socially impactful networks.
Promoting women-led artisan cooperatives from West Bengal, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu
Sourcing eco-textiles from tribal regions of Odisha
Conducting revenue-sharing models with small-batch crafters
Hosting exhibitions for young Indian artists
📈 Impact Statement: Empowered over 120 artisan clusters across 16 states.
Interior designers seeking distinctive home styling pieces
Ethical fashion advocates and slow fashion lovers
Travelers looking for local, authentic souvenirs
Gift buyers aiming for meaningful and responsible choices
Creative professionals in need of inspiration
Parents embracing eco-friendly childhood experiences
While the flagship store in Goa is a sensorial delight, Paper Boat Collective's online platform complements the experience.
Curated collections with detailed artisan stories
Limited-edition drops and pre-order options
Virtual shopping assistance
Eco-friendly shipping with plastic-free commitment
Loyalty rewards for repeat conscious buyers
Paper Boat Collective believes in democratizing access to good design without exploiting makers.
No haggling culture: Prices reflect fair pay and craftsmanship
Affordable pricing tiers across categories
Each purchase funds education, skill-building, or sustenance for the maker
Clear cost breakdowns on commissions and custom orders
The store language—through tags, signage, and packaging—promotes clarity, authenticity, and story-centric retail.
Products aren’t just “sold,” they are “shared”
Language avoids jargon, promoting accessibility
Invitations to interact, learn, and co-create fill the space
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