The modern design of this Portuguese hotel is strongly influenced and inspired by the local vernacular architecture of Minho region and 60’s product design, traces of the inspirational presence of Arne Jacobsen, Alvar Aalto and local giants as Armenio Losa, Januario Godinho and Alvaro Siza, can be found throughout the premise.
The Minho Hotel unique character and fresh appearance are determined not only through the clever usage of natural light and the blending between in and out with the clear geometry links of inner courtyards and volumes, but also through the extensive usage of chestnut wood in the architectural structures – a strong local culture. The designers from Virgula I have not only extended and renovated an existing hotel building – they created its serene and bright atmosphere by introducing the right balance between the main material – chestnut wood in cladding, ceiling, furniture and floors – and the other sophisticated materials used around the hotel, always neutral and based on a white palette. For example – using white Carrara marble both in walls and flooring, as well in some special items such as suspended lamps, counters and washbasins strongly contributes to the balanced atmosphere of clear elegance and warm emanation.
The premises of the hotel are full with fine pieces of workmanship and art design elements – starting with several items of furniture, lighting, upholstery and spa treatment features created by the design studio, through the vintage and renovated furniture to the smallest details – like the hotel sign-system – everything is delicately chosen and placed to achieve wonderful and stylish final result. Actually, according to the designers this hotel project with its elegant and unique atmosphere and furniture design turned into inspiration for creating a new product line – collection called Bracara, developed between Virgula I studio and Portuguese brand Paularte – that will be release in the beginning of 2015. So we may say something that becomes obvious when carefully observing this spacious, contemporary hotel – it’s full with light and elegance premises will be trend defining factor. Photography is by Eva Sousa and Nelson Garrido.
