Location
Porto, Portugal
Palácio de Belomonte
Hotel
2023
Size
4990 m2
Collaboration
TEKK, A3R
Type
Commission
Status
Ongoing,
Concept Design
Archeology of space and built matter
Located in the historic area of Porto, the project aims at the rehabilitation of a Baroque-style Palace, ‘Palácio do Belomonte’, encompassing the adjacent building ‘Lugar do Vinho’ and other two buildings that communicate internally with the Palace, establishing a harmonious relationship between the four existing volumes. The former construction is still recognized as one of the most interesting examples of the 18th century architecture in the city, having performed various functions over the years and retaining several elements of its early design. Our intervention is a response to the challenge of adapting these buildings into the new program of a 9-storey Charming Hotel, while maintaining its genesis and preserving the architectural elements of relevant heritage and archaeological interest, such as the stone staircase and loveseats, which may date back to the 17th century.
The lower floors will accommodate a multipurpose room, commercial and administrative areas, a swimming pool, Spa and gym, whereas the upper floors are intended for bedrooms, some of them provided with very generous terraces, and also a restaurant and bar. The levelling of the different heights allows to create one more floor. The Hotel’s main entrance is located on the 5th floor, where most of the public areas are also located. On the back facade, a wide and long balcony fits between two protruding bodies, overlooking the backyard that provides a garden area. The intervention in the roof, that will include 8 mansards, aims for the symmetry of the main facade of the Palace.


With a new reading and reinterpretation of the past, the proposal uncovers the ‘eternity’ and the layering of times in the built matter.


