In 2021, the Vinha Boutique Hotel opened to the
public, a five-star hotel with its own particular identity. Tell us about the
concept of the hotel and what led to its creation.
At the Vinha Boutique Hotel, classic and contemporary
styles live together in perfect symbiosis. Past and present now come together
in a place with stories to tell that date back to the 16th century. As the
architect responsible for both the exterior and interior design - including the
renovation of the historic building - I expressed my vision through the
intersection of different languages for the hotel’s interiors, in an eclectic
and elegant register, where the various trips I have made over the years have
not failed to influence me. At first glance, some of the elements could even be
interpreted as opposites, but here they are combined with balance and mastery
in a sublime way, stimulating the imagination to different eras, places and
cultures.
The Vinha Boutique Hotel is the result of the
renovation of a 16th century property, for which you were the project designer.
What were the biggest challenges in implementing the project and how long did
it take to complete?
The Vinha Boutique Hotel project came about from an
initial idea to diversify the family’s investment and business portfolio. I
quickly realised that, if I were to go ahead with a project like this, it would
have to be different and innovative, and so I developed and created ideas over
the course of a few years, having had the opportunity to let the ideas that
arose and the concepts that I was coming up with mature. Of course, in the
meantime, there were two global factors that meant we had to slow down the
implementation of the project. These were the global economic crisis, which
even led to work being suspended for a few years, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
These were two events that slowed down the process, but allowed us to rethink
it and improve it with distinctive and ground-breaking concepts in the
decoration of the various spaces.
How do you introduce a new hotel in a well-established
market?
Introducing a new hotel in a well-established market is
a challenge that requires a strategic and well-planned approach. Firstly, it
was vital that we identify specific market niches in which the Vinha Boutique
Hotel could stand out. This involved understanding the needs and preferences of
different guest segments - luxury holidaymakers, leisure travellers, business
travellers, among others.
By developing a unique and compelling proposition,
Vinha Boutique Hotel has been able to set itself apart from the established
competition. Elements such as exclusive design, bespoke experiences and a
customer-centric approach have contributed significantly to this
differentiation. A segmented and targeted strategy was essential to reach the hotel’s specific target audience. This included the use of the right
communication channels, social networks, strategic partnerships and holding
events that are tailored to the tastes of each client. In addition, to
guarantee operational excellence and outstanding service, it was necessary to
invest in team training in order to maintain consistent operational standards
and offer personalised service. Finally, to maintain high standards and
specialised service, it is important to obtain feedback from guests and adapt
our strategies as necessary to ensure their satisfaction and loyalty. These
practices help ensure the success and growth of Vinha Boutique Hotel in a
competitive and well-established market.
Ralph Lauren and Hermès are some of the fashion houses
that drive the creative concept of the rooms and suites. The spa itself is
under the Sisley Paris brand. Is the aim to associate yourselves with
international luxury brands?
Our goal is to provide a unique experience for guests,
people who are increasingly well-travelled and enlightened and who have contact
with international luxury brands. One concern that I have always had is to
create a cosy and refined atmosphere, as though you were at home. By
associating ourselves with some international luxury brands, I wanted to ensure
that every detail reflected the highest standards of quality and exclusivity.
From the design of the rooms to the exclusive amenities, including products
from the renowned brand Sisley, we strive to ensure our guests have a truly
luxurious and memorable stay. Our intention is to create a journey of the
senses, where every element contributes to a unique and unforgettable sensory
experience.
What advantages would you highlight in staying at the
hotel complex and, up until now, what is the profile of those seeking your
services?
Our hotel is considered a true urban retreat, offering
a perfect fusion of natural refuge and city experience. Close to the city of
Oporto and the riverfront areas of Vila Nova de Gaia and Oporto, it also allows
guests to rest and relax in the peace and quiet provided by the huge gardens
and the River Douro. It’s a place where you can enjoy the finest sensory
experiences. Hence our motto of providing a Journey of Senses.
The Journey of Indulgence is created through our
Sisley Paris Spa, which is already known as a wellness destination, with 500 m2
of pure care and relaxation dedicated to body and soul.
We have also created the Journey of Tastes with
gastronomic and wine experiences that characterise traditional Portuguese
cuisine in the hands of chef Henrique Sá Pessoa - awarded two Michelin Stars.
In this context, we have also created a wide range of outdoor activities,
including the possibility of enjoying a delicious picnic in the hotel’s vast
gardens, surrounded by nature.
The Journey of Comfort is created through the
comfortable and distinctive rooms, as well as the dedicated staff who are
always on hand to provide personalised, high-quality service, ensuring a
memorable stay.
The Journey of Experience is made possible by the
Vinha Boutique Hotel’s private jetty, with direct access, which offers a unique
experience on the Douro River.
We welcome a diverse profile of guests who are leisure
travellers and are used to experiencing high quality hotels with an
international reputation. They value comfort, quality service and a relaxing
location. On the other hand, they have approached us as a wedding destination,
when guests want to stay for a few days to celebrate and commemorate their
marriage.
What mission do you fulfil on a daily basis at the
hotel?
I’ve always shared the idea that in order to be
successful we need to be surrounded by several dedicated and capable
professionals who can help us implement ideas and concepts. And that is why,
from the moment we opened, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we organised
and structured the entire Vinha Boutique Hotel staff team. As the director of the
hotel, it is precisely my job to be creative, to innovate concepts and events
and to keep the various departments organised, setting them goals and
challenging them to come up with innovative ideas that motivate each and every
one of the employees.
«That’s why we’re seeing more and more women occupying
senior positions»
