About Us

We celebrate diversity in all its forms

We have a sense of humor and don’t take things too seriously

We support one another in life and in our ceramics practice

We lift one another up, and critique with care

We learn from one another

Our Story

The Toca is a passion project brought to life by Kate and Dany, two kindred souls and ceramics enthusiasts, who shared the ambition to build a space where the mind can take a break from the noisiness of our world and the imagination can run wild.

Always inspired by their love of the rugged beaches of Carcavelos and Cascais, where Daniela has spent most of her life and which Kate has called home for several years, it was a chance encounter with a local octopus that made them decide to name the cozy, intimate space they envisioned The Toca – Portuguese for “den” – just like the home of the wise octopus with his taste for collecting beautiful and eclectic objects.

Open since this summer, The Toca is a mixed-use space including a painting studio, a ceramics atelier and a bookstore, designed to encourage our guests to slow down, embrace their creativity and have fun. We welcome young minds of all ages and love to bring generations together to explore curiosity and play.

Paint-your-own-pottery studio

Our “Paint a pot” studio is a space to enjoy painting on ceramics. It is a lovely way to spend a couple of hours with friends or family, or to have a creative moment on your own. Drop in on your way home from work (or the beach 😊) or get in touch and book your session for a birthday or a special event. We can welcome 1 to 20 people and look forward to tailoring custom experiences.

The Bookstore

We are firm believers in the power of the written word and the role that books can play in broadening minds, uplifting the spirit and developing the imagination. Our shop is focused on offering a selection of children’s books in English. We have the largest collection of used children’s books in Cascais, all in excellent condition and very affordable. We also have a great selection of beloved classics and new publications to grow your family’s library.

The Atelier

The spark that kindled The Toca project is a love of clay and pottery. While Kate is really into the grounding, meditative power of the throwing wheel, Daniela loves the meditative freedom of hand building. Both are devoted potters and are excited to offer a space where amateurs and enthusiasts can learn to play with clay. The Toca offers workshops for all levels and memberships for proficient ceramists.