Christian Louboutin is branching out from footwear and he’s expanding his creative horizons. From the iconic red-soled shoe designer himself, the Vermelho, is his next project and it’s sure to turn heads.
In the charming Portuguese village of Melides, the quaint town seems to be frozen in the 19th century. The charming cobblestoned square and the family-run restaurants with terracotta roofs are about to receive a high-end clientele that only Louboutin can deliver.
It’s no surprise that Vermelho means “red” in Portuguese. After all, Christian Louboutin is known for this colour. Cherry-red doors and window frames, lacquered tiles, and scarlet-painted staircases punctuate the interiors, creating bold focal points that add energy to the tranquil space.
The 13-room hotel was designed with the help of Portuguese architect, Madalena Caiado. The hotel’s exterior features powdery blue and white walls, gently sloping roofs, and delicate chimneys that nod to the region’s architectural heritage. However, as soon as you step through the doors, the interiors take on a strikingly eclectic tone, reflecting Louboutin’s French and Egyptian heritage and his passion for art.
Inside, you'll find an impressive array of design details, from geometric floors reminiscent of Paris's Hôtel de la Marine to richly layered alabaster walls sourced from Luxor in the calming massage suite. The contrast between the minimalist exterior and the opulent, maximalist interiors creates a unique sense of balance that designers can draw inspiration from.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Vermelho is its celebration of Portuguese craftsmanship. The hotel showcases over 7,000 hand-painted tiles from Azulejos de Azeitão, painstakingly crafted by 11 artisans over the course of a year. These tiles, which adorn the walls of the rooms and common areas, add a touch of local authenticity and character to the space.
Each room at Vermelho is a unique blend of Portuguese charm and luxurious comfort, with hand-carved wooden furniture, Moorish side tables, and vintage Venetian mirrors.
The communal sitting room, adorned with honey-coloured velvet banquettes and a bar made from Indian green marble, further showcases the hotel’s commitment to craftsmanship. Baroque silver panelling, hammered by artisans from Seville typically known for constructing church altars, adds an intricate touch to the bar.
The interior of Vermelho is an eclectic mix of vintage finds, global inspirations, and personal treasures from Louboutin’s travels. Guests may encounter everything from antique Indian tapestries to Venetian mirrors or even Louboutin’s own collection of furniture. This curated blend of objects creates an intimate, lived-in atmosphere where each piece tells its own story.
The dining experience at Vermelho also reflects this eclectic mix, with the on-site restaurant, Xtian, featuring ceramic details by Italian sculptor Giuseppe Ducrot. Guests dine among intricately woven Maison Gatti chairs and ornate decor that creates a warm yet stylish ambiance.
In line with its surroundings, Vermelho’s design connects guests to the natural beauty of Melides. Many of the rooms feature outdoor spaces, such as terraces or balconies overlooking the lush gardens designed by landscape architect Louis Benech.
