The sleepy, lesser-known Portuguese town of Melides has a star property in its midst – a boutique hotel owned and designed by shoe designer Christian Louboutin.
The 13-room hotel is the culmination of his affinity for the region, where he owns a number of homes – and now an eclectic boutique hotel named after the signature colour of his red-soled heels.
Hand-in-hand with architect Madalena Caiado, the team sought to transform the low-key building into a five-star retreat designed by Louboutin himself in a way that celebrates Portuguese tradition, craftmanship and skill, while reflecting his cultural interests and curiosity.
The hotel is described as “eclectic, maximalist and daring”, and this is evident in every corner of Vermelho, which features furniture and objects from the French designer’s own personal collection.
Every space boasts its own distinct personality, brought to life by an elite design team – from Greek artist Konstantin Kakanias who hand-painted the intricate wall frescoes to the bespoke carpentry by Spanish woodwork company Los Tres Juanes.
Regional Alentejo tiles were used throughout the project, while the ornate silver bar – described as an homage to hedonism – was created by Villareal goldsmiths.
From the street, the hotel’s exterior, with its white and blue walls and terracotta roof, defies its lavish interior, intended to blend in as a traditional building in the local architectural language.
Past the front door, there’s a wealth of details to explore inside, including elements inspired by Louboutin’s French and Egyptian heritage and his extensive travels.
Photography: Ambroise Tézenas
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