Situated in the idyllic coastal village of Ericeira, Portugal, the Aethos Ericeira Hotel stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity and aesthetic harmony. Designed by Pedra Silva Arquitectos, this boutique hotel epitomizes a seamless blend of traditional charm and contemporary elegance, offering guests a captivating retreat amid breathtaking natural surroundings.
The hotel’s prime location atop a cliff overlooking Calada Beach affords guests panoramic views of the majestic Atlantic Ocean, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience immersed in tranquility and beauty. Originally characterized by disparate architectural styles and a lack of cohesive identity, the existing building underwent a meticulous refurbishment guided by a vision of revitalization and renewal.
Embracing the Past, Embracing the Future
At the heart of the refurbishment project lay a profound respect for the building’s historical significance and natural context. Through a meticulous analysis of the existing structure and strategic delineation of development areas, the architects sought to seamlessly integrate the hotel with its surroundings while preserving its inherent character and allure.
The transformation journey commenced with the preservation of key architectural elements, such as the light-colored facades and sloped tiled roofs, evoking a sense of nostalgia and authenticity. Yet, juxtaposed against these traditional features are contemporary interventions that breathe new life into the space, creating a dynamic interplay between past and present.
Redefining Spatial Dynamics
Central to the refurbishment was the reconfiguration of interior spaces to foster openness and connectivity, departing from conventional spatial organization in favor of a modern, open-plan layout. Social areas on the ground floor, including the multipurpose room, restaurant, and bar, were thoughtfully reimagined to optimize visual access to the surrounding seascape, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor realms.
The main entrance, characterized by its double-height ceiling and expansive windows, beckons visitors with a captivating interplay of light and space, setting the stage for an immersive arrival experience. Careful attention was also devoted to redesigning seaside-facing arches, ensuring optimal visual engagement while offering respite from direct sunlight.
Harmonizing Form and Function
Exterior transformations were equally striking, with the removal of sloped tiled roofs and the introduction of revamped balconies lending a distinct modern aesthetic to the hotel’s facade. Dark brown matte metal elements, juxtaposed with light-colored paint and wooden accents, create a harmonious interplay of contrasts, enhancing the facade’s visual appeal and architectural integrity.
Interconnected seating areas dotting the exterior invite guests to engage with the natural landscape, while the redesigned pool area seamlessly integrates elevation disparities, fostering a sense of openness and expansiveness.
In essence, the refurbishment of the Aethos Ericeira Hotel represents a masterful union of tradition and modernity, breathing new life into a historic structure while honoring its rich heritage. As guests immerse themselves in the hotel’s timeless charm and contemporary allure, they embark on a journey of discovery, where the past converges with the present to create unforgettable moments of beauty and serenity.
