House 1923 Urban Hotel by PAr Plataforma de ARquitectura | Faro, Portugal

Architects: PAr Plataforma de ARquitectura 

House 1923 is an exceptional example of Art Nouveau architecture in Faro, blending historical preservation with contemporary design strategies. Originally built in 1923, this rare bourgeois building has been meticulously restored and adapted into a hybrid urban hotel and residential space, preserving its unique 1920s character while introducing modern functionality and sustainable living principles.

A Journey into History and Art Nouveau Heritage

From the moment visitors pass through its historic doors, House 1923 evokes the charm and elegance of the early 20th century. The project pays homage to the magical and ancestral atmosphere of the 1920s, where every architectural element tells a story. The design preserves the volumetry of the original house while maintaining the spatial relationships between rooms and emphasizing key Art Nouveau elements, including stained glass, wrought metalwork, and decorative tiles.

Materials such as wood, stone, marble, and brass are celebrated throughout the interiors. Floors feature hydraulic and marseille tiles, walls are treated with scaiola, plaster, or whitewash, and ceilings showcase intricately worked wood and traditional carpentry, creating a rich tactile and visual experience. Sustainability is woven into the design through cork insulation, natural ventilation, and a rooftop green space, making environmental responsibility an intrinsic part of the building’s ethos.

Contemporary Adaptation for Versatile Living

House 1923 is not merely a restoration but a contemporary reinterpretation of the historical context. The ground floor accommodates the main living spaces, including a kitchen, dining, and living rooms, complemented by two versatile studios. Each studio can function independently or merge into a single T1 apartment, providing flexibility for residential or hospitality use.

The upper floor hosts two modern accommodation units that connect to a central multipurpose space equipped with a kitchen. This central area allows the upper level to function as a T2 apartment, ensuring the project meets modern lifestyle demands while respecting the historical narrative.

Integration of Nature and Sustainability

Sustainability is not an afterthought but a lifestyle within House 1923. An organic vegetable garden and edible landscaping extend into the rooftop and outdoor spaces, while a water well on the ground floor and a tank above maintain a self-sustaining water system. These features enhance the connection between the interior and exterior, blending historic architecture with contemporary ecological living.

Design Philosophy

The restoration and adaptation of House 1923 reflect a careful balance between authentic historical preservation and modern innovation. The project emphasizes the recovery of lost architectural authenticity while integrating contemporary materials, spatial versatility, and sustainable strategies, resulting in a boutique urban hotel that embodies Faro’s cultural and architectural heritage.

All photographs are works of  Alexander Bogorodskiy