- Interior
Pedra Silva Arquitectos unveils Aethos Ericeira, a boutique hotel overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in Ericeira, Portugal. Despite many constraints, the firm sought to preserve the site's history while renovating the existing building. Their commitment to architectural design, technical quality and cost efficiency resulted in a project that brought back the essence of the building while distinguishing between retained and abandoned elements.
Pedra Silva Arquitectos is a Lisbon-based full-service architectural firm dedicated to providing architectural and interior design services for numerous building typologies. The firm customises each project individually, with an exceptional degree of architectural design, technical quality and strict cost control. Their work is characterised by strong conceptual legibility, innovation and a meticulous approach to detailing, all underpinned by the principles of humane, sustainable and durable design. For their design, the boutique hotel Aethos Ericeira, they opted for some significant design changes. These included moving the main entrance to the seafront, creating an impressive arrival experience, and enlarging windows to let in more light and views. The renovation also included the removal of an existing basement near the pool, resulting in a seamless connection between the hotel building and the pool area. 
The integration of the building with the landscape was emphasised through colour and texture
The redesign defined a new organisation of the buildings by the sea, with open spaces allowing direct connection to the exterior. The interior design included creating mezzanines for relaxation and rearranging spaces for functionality and comfort. In terms of form, colour and material, the challenge was to create a sense of unity between the building and the surrounding landscape. By removing some of the roofs and opening up balconies, the architects managed to strengthen the visual connection between inside and outside.Vertical wooden slats and metal panels on the facades were used to enhance the architectural features and define clear shapes and volumes. 
The architects emphasised the building's integration with the landscape through colour and texture, combining traditional and modern elements. The result is a harmonious fusion of architecture and natural environment, where guests can enjoy a unique and authentic experience on the coast of Portugal. 
Interior design and FF&E: Astet Studio
Landscape architecture: Topiaris
Main contractor: Novos Construtores
Photography by Francisco Nogueira - Architectural Photography
Text by Elke Aerts