dream destination

MEINKE FLESSEMAN IS ONE OF THE BEST-KNOWN ARTISTS IN THE ALGARVE, HER WORK INSTANTLY RECOGNISABLE, ALWAYS ENCHANTING, AND EVER IN DEMAND. AND NOW HER PASSION FOR INTERIOR DESIGN HAS RESULTED IN A GLAMOROUS HIDEAWAY ALONGSIDE HER STUDIO IN PORTIM Ã O

Words: SUSI ROGOL-GOODKIND

EINKE FLESSEMAN, a long-standing resident of the Algarve, had her first atelier in the 1990s, in Sesmarias, Lago, where she produced canvas after canvas. There were few elegant homes that did not boast a Meinke goat painting, or a sheep portrait, or a dreamy waterscape, and galleries were fast to have her as a top name on their roster of talents.

Meinke moved her life, and her studio, to Olhão in 2009, and her output was impressive. Ten years later, in 2019, she moved back west to Portimão, despite being more than happy in the east.

“It was the house. It was love at first sight, and it just wouldn’t let me go,” she says. “From the first moment I saw and felt its potential, it became almost an obsession. All that beauty, the endless space, the opportunities. It was totally clear to me what each area was destined to be. I saw it instantly as a great place to live, a great place to work, and a great place to develop into luxury accommodation.”

The handsome century-old building, Casa Melchior, on the road to the old bridge into Portimão, is a vast 1,200m², Meinke’s sun-filled studio and gallery taking up 290m²; her own home is on the ground floor, leading onto a private enclosed terrace.

MMany of the remarkable original features of the property have withstood the trials and tribulations of the years – despite having been left a bit unloved for many a decade, but the intricacy of its details have now been treated to attention and new coatings of paint and polish. The soaring ceilings, the multi-paned windows, the curve of the staircases, the marbled archways – these are what captured Meinke’s heart from the very first viewing.

“I could see the possibilities instantly – and there were possibilities on every level and in every direction. I knew instinctively what I would do with the space, and with the grounds surrounding the building. And my labour of love – real love – began as soon as the property became mine.

“The place was like a haunted house when I bought it. Like a movie set for a thriller or murder scene. But I saw through the spookiness; the woodwork, the shutters, the doors, the tiled floors were of the highest quality; the plasterwork was in almost perfect condition in many places.

Plumbing and electricity were an issue, but that was to be expected.

“I went into this project with my heart full of passion, my mind full of visions, and a determination to make those a reality. Yes, I was a bit naive and underestimated the amount of work and money it would involve, and the process has not been easy, but knowing that each step, however stressful, would take me closer to bringing that dream to life, gave me such strength. I was aware from the start that it is rare to find a house like this anywhere. I am lucky. Tired yes, but so fulfilled.

So what has Meinke created – what does Casa Melchior have to offer that she is now ready to share with a discerning audience looking for something truly special, a stay-away that dreams are made of?

Making magic

Enter the crimson main doors, cross the tiled floors, pass under an arch of carved marble and climb the wide and winding staircase lit by vast ceiling widows. You are then entering an experience that brings art and design, style and comfort, originality and enchantment together.

Everywhere you look in the two apartments Meinke has developed to rent, there is detail piled on detail, edited collections of wonderful pieces gathered together to tell a story. Fine furnishings, some reloved and enhanced, wall hangings, decor pieces and, of course, Meinke’s artworks old and new.

The apartments are large and lavish – the love

It is her inate ability to mix and match, to play with shape and texture and colour that makes Meinke’s interiors stand out that has gone into their creation shows at every turn. There are six bedrooms in total – four of which are ensuite – with crisp bed linens, handknitted spreads and embroidered cushions. The living rooms are spacious, comfortable and stylish. There are dining rooms that are perfect for a quiet dinner, or for entertaining friends and family, and the kitchens specially designed and built by experts.

“In the house when I bought it, there were very many pieces of beautiful furniture with special features. I have kept and appreciated a handpicked number, and sent others to charities. I’ve mixed these characterful antiques with contemporary finds, and searched car boot sales for unusual extras. Artisan items, too, like woven throws, have added to the sense of style I wanted Casa Melchior to present.” meinkeflesseman@gmail.com

There are many hideaways in the house, twisting little corridors that lead to a surprise, like balcony that overlooks a flower-filled courtyard. And there are many courtyards and terraces, also dressed with special design pieces, like sculptures and hanging lights, and a big garden that is taking shape now.

Casa Melchior is exceptional in every respect. And available to you for short or even long-term stays. You will love it.