Opened in 2017, The Visionaire is a privately owned residence featuring 18 individual holiday apartments, ranging from intimate studios and one-bedroom affairs to grander two-bedroom offerings and a luxurious suite. It is the sister establishment to the successful Lisbonaire residence located a short walk further inland through the city’s vibrant bohemian quarter. Offering hotel-level comfort in home-style surroundings, each apartment comes with its own kitchen, elevator access, air-conditioning and daily housekeeping, as well as access to the communal Library and laundry facilities.
Popping up all over cities, these types of residences are not unheard of nowadays. But what makes The Visionaire stand out is its unique spin on Lisbon’s rich past. A coastal town, Lisbon has a long history of seafaring and maritime exploration that introduced diverse cultures, foods, crafts, storytelling and traditions. In many ways, the first truly cosmopolitan city, Lisbon has muti-culturalism woven into its very fabric.
Tapping into this unique cultural exchange, the interiors of The Visionaire are designed to resemble a modern-day merchant’s house, complete with authentic home accessories sourced from all corners of the globe. Traditional masks from Africa and tapestries from the Middle East and Asia cover the walls of public areas, while vases and pottery pieces of 18th-century Portuguese origin accessorise shelves and end tables. Keeping things as local as possible, the public area interiors have been designed by Luisa Pinho and furniture throughout the residence is custom-made by Lisbon-based Studio Pedrita.
Beckoning short-term visitors discovering Lisbon for the first time as well as honorary Lisbonites returning to the city they love, The Visionaire invites both travellers and visionaries with its stylish interiors and comfortable atmosphere.
At Creative Supply, we believe The Visionaire has the potential to grow into a recognisable stand-alone brand within the region. Curating a bespoke set of talks and events in the Library would help to form a loyal community around The Visionaire, positioning it as a lifestyle brand beyond hospitality. Added premium touches – such as an espresso machine in each room, complementary beach towels and parasols, and remote working amenities – would also help to elevate the residence a step further and differentiate it from the competition.
Two more sister residences are slated to open in and around Lisbon in the coming year. If The Visionaire and The Lisbonaire are anything to go by, they will be just as distinct to the region and as inviting to the world.
Looking at The Visionaire’s hotel concept with the lense of our Hotel Concept Framework
| Story | The Visionaire takes its name from King D. João I, a visionary in his own right who initiated Portugal’s maritime navigations in the early 15th century. Today, his imposing statue sits in front of the apartments on Praça da Figueira square. A reminder that Lisbon is and was the springboard for greatness as well as a safe harbour for travellers and visionaries then as now. |
| Space | 18 individual holiday apartments (from intimate studio to private grande suite) in the style of a modern merchant’s home. Think, bright and airy spaces with every home comfort and interiors that inspire exploration. |
| Identity | In keeping with its connection to Lisbons’ rich history, The Visionaire pairs a distinct vintage font with a clean black-and-white visual identity, serving to highlight the colours and textures of the apartment’s interiors. This simple backdrop is enlivened by touches of turquoise that draw the mind out to sea and across the waves to places undiscovered. |
| Services | This should feel like your home so amenities and services are at your discretion. An honesty bar, self-service check-in and concierge reachable over Whatsapp allow for independence and a sense of familiar ease. Discovery packages are available to help you enjoy the area and luggage store rooms make early check-ins and check-outs enjoyable. Drop your bags whenever and explore the city! |
| People | Service interaction is kept at a minimum to respect your privacy and secure a homey atmosphere. But help is always on demand so you never feel at a loss. |
| Content | The Visionaire’s website features a detailed F&Q to help you navigate the city. |
| Channels | You can find out more about The Visionaire through online travel agents and blogs. |
Hotel Concept Handbook
