Inside the Design of Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel, the “Art House in the Park”

Blending contemporary elegance with the cultural soul of Porto, the Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel was envisioned as an “Art House in the Park”, where architecture, interior design, and local identity come together in harmony.

Created by Visioarq Arquitectos in partnership with Broadway Malyan, the building’s exterior sets the tone for what lies within. Its metal surface “second skin” features geometric sail-shaped panels, a design inspired by the boats that once transported wine along the Douro River.

Step inside, and the mood shifts to one of refined serenity. The interior palette is an elegant mix of pastel pinks, champagne golds, and petrol blues—a contemporary tribute to both the Renaissance brand's theatrical spirit and the shimmering light of the Douro River. These colors are more than just decorative, as they carry the essence of the city’s atmosphere and reflect the light, culture, and emotion of Porto itself.

Design here is thoughtful and intentional. The interiors feature a curated blend of textures and materials, from vintage Portuguese azulejos to floor-to-ceiling windows, and walnut wood furnishings, creating a tactile and visual warmth. The artistic sensibility is elevated by works from both local and international artists, adding layers of storytelling and identity to each space.

Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel is integrated into the revitalized green park – Mário Soares Urban Park. The Accoya wood panels and metal screens on the building’s exterior echo the textures of the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless transition between the hotel and its surroundings.

This fusion of innovative design and cultural storytelling has been noticed. The Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel was awarded Silver in the Building of the Year – Hospitality category at the 2023 International Design Awards, highlighting the hotel as a new icon in urban hospitality.

Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel is the living expression of Porto, its culture, art, and comfort—a place where traditional features are perfectly combined with bold and contemporary design.