Meliá Hotels is reopening the Hotel Nacional in Rio de Janeiro after being closed for more than two decades. Originally completed in 1972 by Brazilian modernist Oscar Niemeyer, the 33-story cylindrical property has been upgraded by VOA Studio São Paulo.
The 5-Star Gran Meliá Nacional Rio de Janeiro includes a 32,291-square-foot ground floor lobby designed by Debora Aguiar Arquitetos of São Paulo and a 26,909-square-foot garden, designed by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, that overlooks the neighborhood of São Conrado. Common areas will include plush upholstery, wicker lounge furniture, and floor lamps. All 413 guestrooms have been crafted by VOA with wood paneling and tiled surfaces.
Brazilian artist Alfredo Ceshciatti’s large, distinctive mermaid sculpture has been preserved as well. The building also includes a helipad. A restaurant, bar, and spa are slated to open next month, with a convention center following in March, also designed by VOA.
Rio de Janeiro’s Hotel Nacional to Reopen After 20 Years
VOA Studio led the refresh with help from Debora Aguiar Arquitetos.
Words by: Will Speros
Rio de Janeiro’s Hotel Nacional to Reopen After 20 Years
VOA Studio led the refresh with help from Debora Aguiar Arquitetos.
Words by: Will Speros
