Architecture inspired by nature: Lisbon’s Praia D’el Rey reveals new ocean-facing guestrooms

Golf course and exterior of hotel
800 533 Hamish Kilburn
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Architecture firm Philosophy of Space Rita Gabriel led the €1m renovation to the Praia D’el Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort…

Inspired by nature and natural light, architect Rita Gabriel from the renowned Lisbon-based Philosophy of Space practice has recently completed a €1m renovation to the Praia D’El Rey.

Positioned on pristine shores of Portugal’s Silver Coast to boast unmatched vistas of breaking North Atlantic waves, the hotel’s movement very much revolves around its golf facilities. Gabriel based her guestroom concept around natural woods, gold-coloured metals and complementary lighting, with the blue of the ocean reflected in small detailing.

The new ocean-front guestrooms and ocean premium accommodation now feature a now prevailing colours of blue, matte gold and light grey, reflecting Gabriel’s concept. “We wanted to bring nature and light into the rooms, thus softening their environment and making them more pleasurable and welcoming, and we used clear natural woods, light fabrics and gilded metals to achieve this concept,” said Gabriel. “The blue of the sea is present in small details, and the combination of everything has helped to bathe each of the rooms in a new light.”

The guestroom renovation follows swiftly on the heels of the upgrade of restaurant facilities at the luxury Lisbon resort, and the launch of the resort’s Cynthia Dye-designed golf course, which opened last summer and is already predicted to be the new number one course in Portugal.

 

Hamish Kilburn / 19.06.2018

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