Casa Amor is a boutique hotel project located in the historic center of Olhão, fully immersed in local traditions and experiences. The building, originally from the 19th century, is rich in unique architectural features that reflect the city’s collective memory, history, and identity. With 10 luxury suites and top-tier services, Casa Amor aims to preserve the history and character of what was once the residence of notable local figures and later became the famous Pensão Helena. The project seeks to bridge the past and present, offering guests an experience deeply connected to the local environment while ensuring maximum comfort and sophistication. The combination of contemporary design with historical elements reflects respect for tradition, keeping the essence of the building and the region alive.
The Project
The Casa Amor project meticulously preserves the architectural layout and original features of the building while adapting its spaces for use as a tourist accommodation establishment. The transformation of this vacant building aims to return a restored, functional, and habitable heritage site to the city while respecting its roots and original purpose. The building’s aesthetic remains deeply connected to the vernacular architecture of the Algarve’s coastline, incorporating traditional materials such as Santa Catarina tiles, lime plaster, and wrought ironwork, which are key elements of the region’s identity.
The façade was kept almost intact, with only minimal adjustments to existing openings to maintain the original rhythm, proportions, and architectural language. One of the main concerns of the project was ensuring that the intervention would not compromise the historical integrity of the building.
Inside, the spatial layout was reorganized to accommodate the new functions. The first floor maintains its original use as a public area, housing the reception, common rooms, a restaurant, and an art gallery. This floor also contains the necessary technical areas, such as laundry, storage, and restrooms. The decision to preserve the original vaulted ceilings highlights the importance of maintaining architectural authenticity, while the addition of a new courtyard fosters a stronger connection between interior and exterior spaces.
The second floor, a more private area, contains the luxury suites of the boutique hotel, adapting to the building’s previous use as a residence. The spaces were reorganized to create a greater sense of openness, with each suite having its own private bathroom. A central corridor connects the rooms, ensuring efficient circulation and direct access to outdoor areas.
The top floor, originally featuring a four-sided roof, was redesigned to accommodate the last suite and the hotel’s technical support areas. The açoteia, a characteristic element of Olhão’s traditional architecture, was preserved and transformed into an exclusive leisure area for guests, featuring a pool, bar, and pergolas, creating an interplay of light and shadow over the outdoor space.
Café Baltazar
Complementing the tourist and residential functions of the building, the project includes Café Baltazar, located on the main floor and accessible to the public. This café offers a unique opportunity for guests and visitors to connect with the local culture through gastronomy. Additionally, the space includes a gourmet market that sells regional products, reinforcing the hotel’s integration into the local community and promoting the consumption of Algarve’s traditional foods. Café Baltazar aims to become a meeting point for tourists and locals alike, fostering an authentic connection with Olhão’s traditions.
Restaurante Segredo
On the same floor, Restaurante Segredo offers a high-quality gastronomic experience. Located under the building’s original vaulted ceilings, the restaurant combines architectural excellence with a fusion cuisine that blends Portuguese and French influences. The focus on organic and locally sourced products is a defining feature of Restaurante Segredo, promoting sustainability and supporting local producers. With luxurious decor and an intimate atmosphere, the restaurant is one of Casa Amor’s highlights, providing guests with an unforgettable experience where tradition meets modernity.
Galeria Helena
Casa Amor also features Galeria Helena, a space dedicated to both local and international art and culture. Although historically known as a fishing town, Olhão has recently emerged as a growing artistic hub, and Galeria Helena seeks to further enhance this cultural dimension. The gallery provides a platform for contemporary artists, hosting art exhibitions that contribute to the region’s cultural development. By including the gallery in its design, Casa Amor reinforces its commitment to integrating the hotel into Olhão’s cultural life, making it not only a tourist destination but also a catalyst for artistic growth in the city.
