He graduated from the Faculty of Architecture of the Universidade Tecnica of Lisbon, Portugal. Duarte Caldeira worked as an architect and urban designer for the Urban Planning and Housing Department of Madeira. He founded the firm Massa Cinzenta and also established his own practice, which focuses on architectural design at every scale. Its concept-based approach aims to create buildings, objects and spaces which engage their users and respond to their ambitions, cultures and contexts. The twelve year old practice is supported by talented and experienced architects who develop projects from the early sketches to on-site supervision. Every project involves a multidisciplinary professional team and consultants whose knowledge, expertise and imagination brings a fresh and innovative approach to design.

The office has a wide portfolio of work which includes public buildings, hotels, commercial and residential developments, as well as interior design and furniture.