The cool breezes of a classic tourist haunt

Perched atop the cliffs of Portugal’s Estoril Coast, the five-star Albatroz Hotel celebrates the tenacity of an aristocratic elegance with nautical references, enjoying a beach setting and refreshing sea breezes. The interior hospitality design is by Gracinha Viterbo

Standing on the cliffs above the salt spray of the Atlantic waves crashing onto the rocks below, the lovely ‘Almond Box’ villa dates back to 1873, when it was built as a private residence for the Dukes of Loule. It would then become home for several families in turn until the 1960s, when it opened its doors to tourists. The Palazzo Albatroz, which is set further back from the sea, was then acquired and joined the hotel complex in 2000. Initially named Casa di D. António di Lancastre after its first owner, later becoming Palazzo dei Soffitti Gialli, or House of Yellow Ceilings, it is a jewel of 20th century Italianate architecture, featuring balconies with arches and columns. Since opening up as a hotel more than fifty years ago the Grand Hotel Albatroz has been a summer haunt of famous artists, Hollywood stars and illustrious politicians, and was often described as “the grande dame of the Portuguese coast”. It has been further extended over the years, and now includes a modern wing with a scenic terrace framing the blue-tiled swimming pool. The three buildings of the Albatroz complex host a total

Owner/Hotel operator: The Albatroz Collection Architectural design, Interior design, Lighting design, Custom furniture and Fixture design: Viterbo Interior Design (Gracinha Viterbo) Decorative ceramics: custom-made by Anna Westerlund Azujelos: Viuva Lamego Encaustic tiles: Bert & May Wallpaper: Elitis Tapestry: Diana Cunha Oficina 166 Fabrics: Pierre Frey, Canovas, Bárbara Osório Graffiti: Smile

Author: Antonella Mazzola Photo credits: Francisco Almeida

of 51 rooms. Viterbo’s interior hospitality design is intended to celebrate the hotel’s rich history, combining its original features with elements in a style inspired by the 1940s and 50s, the golden age of Estoril and Cascais. Moorish, neo-Gothic and neo-Manueline motifs, the renowned traditional artisanal skills of local craftsmen and pieces by contemporary Portuguese artists create a style that combines the cool freshness of the blue sea waters with enduring, classic elegance. Exquisitely-made elements embodying Portuguese flair and skill can be found throughout the complex – the traditional azulejos in the lobby, antique paintings, the hand-carved balustrades, the first-floor ceiling that dates back to the original year of construction, the Lioz limestone and the palms and pelicans depicted on the 17th and 18th century tiles recalling the Lancastre family’s coat of arms. Viterbo Interior Design collaborated with contemporary artists and local young brands to personalise the interiors with site-specific art installations.

Some walls are adorned with murals commissioned from SMILE, the Portuguese graffiti artist, while the large staircase tapestry is by textile and macrame artist Diana Cunha. The famous Viúva Lamego brand supplied the new tiles, some of which were designed by Gracinha Viterbo especially for this project. The relief tiles on the walls of the hotel reception, though, are by a young Portuguese brand called BARRO, and the ceramic pieces are by Anna Westerlund. Viterbo Interior Design developed the concept behind all the remaining decorative elements, from the bespoke bar mirrors made using traditional Portuguese baskets to the patchwork tiled tables, creating the hand-embroidered details on the chairs in the main hall and the lounge ceiling lights in its own workshops. The rooms of the Palazzo dei Soffitti Gialli are dominated by neutral tones and a period atmosphere, but the touch of chromatic variety supplied by the palm-patterned fabrics and blue striped carpets give the rooms in main part of the hotel the feel of a beach caressed by refreshing sea breezes, providing a wonderful complement to the stunning ocean view.