Headed by Gracinha Viterbo, the studio has conceived an environment that celebrates the hotel’s rich history, as this is a special place where renowned artists, Hollywood actors, illustrious figures and politicians came to stay for more than half a century. Inspired by the infinity of blue hues found across the Atlantic Ocean and with the intention to give back the hotel its brilliance, Viterbo Interior design has combined a classic style embued with a fresh Portuguese spirit.
For the hotel’s grand opening in the 1940s, the space had been transformed from a private residence to an inn by the owners at the time. First built in the early 1900s for the Lancastre family, this grand residence of Italian architecture combines Moor, Neo-Gothic and Neo-Manueline motifs found throughout the space that, together with the sentry boxes in each corner of the house, give it a most peculiar and original look. For the new design concept, Viterbo Interior Design drew inspiration from the hotel’s rich history including testimonials found in the hotel’s first ever guest book, which was filled with notes from worldwide guests.

Upon entering Hotel Albatroz guests encounter the Lancastre family ́s coat of arms. Further original features that have been thoughtfully preserved include the paintings in the lobby, the 17th and 18th century tiles that reference the Lancastre family’s crest and pelicans, the hand-carved banisters, and the first-floor ceiling dating back to the year of construction. Viterbo’s carefully selected details set the stage for the hotel’s renewed and quintessentially Portuguese style, including traditional Azulejos and the hand-picked aged Lioz stone.
As with every Viterbo Interior Design project, all details were carefully thought and exquisite Portuguese craftsmanship can be found in every corner. Featuring bespoke art installations by contemporary artists as well as established and young brands, Viterbo’s design seamlessly incorporates the work of several local master artisans and apprentices, immersing guests in an experience that is both sophisticated and timeless.

At the bar, the bespoke mirrors made from traditional Portuguese baskets and patchworked tabletops with traditional Azulejos were also made at Viterbo’s atelier, making Hotel Albatroz a true celebration of Portugal’s craftsmanship reinterpreted for today. The new tiles are by heritage brand Viúva Lamego, including some designed by Gracinha Viterbo especially for this project. The relief tiles on the walls of the hotel’s reception are by young Portuguese brand BARRO. All the ceramic pieces were commissioned to Anna Westerlund.