Christian Louboutin’s first boutique hotel, Vermelho, brings his signature flair to the tranquil village of Melides. With dazzling design, artisanal craftsmanship, and heartfelt homage to Portuguese culture, this boutique retreat offers a luxurious escape like no other.
Christian Louboutin, famed for his red-soled footwear masterpieces, has ventured into the world of hospitality with the opening of Vermelho Hotel in Melides, Portugal. This 13-room boutique property, whose name translates to "red" in Portuguese—a nod to Louboutin's signature colour—brings his unparalleled design sensibility into a serene and intimate setting. It is not merely a hotel but a vivid extension of Louboutin’s artistic world, infused with his deep appreciation for Portuguese craftsmanship and culture.
Located in the tranquil village of Melides, about 75 minutes south of Lisbon, Vermelho is nestled in the Alentejo region, an area celebrated for its vineyards, rice fields, and sweeping views of the Atlantic coastline. Melides has long been a haven for artisans and creatives, including Louboutin, who has maintained a private residence and design studio here for over a decade. Inspired by the region’s charm and artistic spirit, he chose Melides as the perfect place to manifest his vision of a boutique hotel that pays homage to local heritage while offering global sophistication.
The design of Vermelho is a vibrant reflection of Louboutin’s eclectic and maximalist aesthetic. Collaborating with Portuguese architect Madalena Caiado, he has crafted interiors that are both intimate and exuberant. The hotel dazzles with colourful azulejos, the ornamental tiles synonymous with Portuguese architecture, which adorn walls, floors, and even furniture. These tiles, which Louboutin calls “my favourite things,” create a kaleidoscope of colour that mirrors the vibrant culture of the region.
Every detail of Vermelho has been thoughtfully curated, with bespoke furnishings and art sourced from both local and international artisans. Highlights include sculptures by Italian artist Giuseppe Ducrot and a stunning chandelier by French artist Nicolas Cesbron, which illuminate the hotel’s spaces with a unique blend of tradition and modernity. This attention to craftsmanship extends beyond aesthetics, creating a seamless harmony between the hotel’s interiors and its surrounding natural landscape.
The experience at Vermelho goes beyond visual splendor. Guests are treated to a home-away-from-home atmosphere, enhanced by thoughtful amenities and exceptional service. The hotel’s on-site restaurant, Xtian, invites diners to explore the culinary treasures of Portugal in a relaxed yet refined setting. From locally sourced ingredients to creative interpretations of traditional dishes, the menu reflects the same commitment to artistry that defines the hotel’s design.
For those seeking relaxation, Vermelho offers a serene bar for unwinding with cocktails, as well as spa treatments and massages designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. These offerings ensure that guests enjoy a comprehensive retreat, whether they are exploring the cultural richness of Melides or simply basking in the hotel’s tranquil ambiance.
To bring this vision to life, Louboutin enlisted the help of trusted collaborators, including textile advisor Carolina Irving and Sevillian artisan Patricia Medina, who connected local Iberian craftspeople with the project. French landscape architect Louis Benech, renowned for his ability to merge vibrant colours with natural settings, designed the hotel’s gardens, which seamlessly blend into the Alentejo’s wider landscape.
Christian Louboutin describes Vermelho as a dream made real: “I realized many people have the fantasy of designing or owning a hotel. I like to make my dreams a reality. That is why Vermelho is born.” This project also allowed him to share his collection of antiques and art, giving new life to pieces he has gathered over the years while showcasing the excellence of artists and artisans he admires.
Vermelho Hotel is more than a luxurious retreat; it is a love letter to Portugal and its rich cultural tapestry. By weaving local traditions with global influences, Louboutin has created a sanctuary that invites guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant artistry and tranquil beauty of Melides. In doing so, he has expanded his creative legacy beyond fashion, offering a glimpse into a world where craftsmanship, culture, and comfort coexist in perfect harmony.