First Yoo2 Property Opens in Rio

Yoo Hotels launched the first property in its Yoo2 brand in Rio de Janeiro in time for the Olympic Games. The property, a former embassy, was reimagined by local architects as well as London’s Yoo Design Studio.

Architect Sergio Gattass led the building’s transformation, while fellow Brazilian designer Melina Romano assisted Yoo’s team with tropicalizing the space. The vibrant interiors radiate with color and abundant plant life to honor the locale and establish a relaxed environment. In order to instill authentic Brazilian flare within the globally influenced design, local artisans were tapped to provide custom wooden furniture as well as the striking lobby chandelier, which was crafted by designer Ana Neute. Each of the 143 guestrooms and suites are also clad with unique hourglass-shape bedside tables provided by a local furniture company. Rio-based street artist Marcelo Ment even provided an elaborate graffiti mural for the hotel’s elevator shaft, viewable thanks to glass-backed lifts.


Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro maximizes its setting in the chic Botafogo neighborhood with a rooftop lounge offering views of Guanabara Bay and Christ the Redeemer. F&B includes a seafood bar and the Cariocally Restaurant & Bar.