Stay in a new pink villa at Christian Louboutin’s exuberant Portuguese hotel

The French shoe designer Christian Louboutin has expanded his hospitality venture, Vermelho Hotel, in Melides, Alentejo, Portugal, with the addition of two new villas. Louboutin, known for his red-lacquered sole shoes, opened his first hotel project in Melides in 2023. His connection to the region began when he discovered the coastal town after an injury, leading him to transform a traditional fisherman’s shack into a maison de famille-style retreat. The original Vermelho Hotel, developed with local architect Madalena Caiado, features 13 distinct rooms, a small wellness area, a hammered-silver bar, and the in-house restaurant Xtian, which serves Alentejan cuisine on hand-thrown crockery. The hotel's interior design blends Louboutin’s French and Egyptian heritage with the local Portuguese aesthetic, incorporating elements like azulejos (glazed tiles), architectural ceramics, and a vibrant use of color, creating an environment that is both deeply rooted and innovative. The new additions include "La Salvada" and "La Maison des Bateaux." La Salvada is a pink, kasbah-inspired villa designed in collaboration with Egyptian designer Tarek Shamma. It is situated in a wildflower meadow and can accommodate up to four guests. Its interior features a sandy color palette, accented with red and indigo details, such as a built-in bench upholstered in quatrefoil fabric and a Jean-Louis Viard tapestry. The skylit living room is adorned with antiques under high ceilings. The villa also offers three rooftop terraces, providing spaces for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings. The design reflects a fusion of cultural influences, creating a unique and luxurious living space. In contrast, "La Maison des Bateaux" offers a more rustic experience, drawing inspiration from a whitewashed Alentejan boathouse. This villa is nestled among rice fields and embraces a maritime theme with a pared-back aesthetic. Its decor includes shell-cluster lamps and miniature boats, set against a backdrop of white, deep blue, and sun-baked terracotta. The villa showcases furniture from Louboutin's personal collection alongside works by various artists. A garden path leads to a large, secluded swimming pool, complementing the cooler interiors with a sunlit outdoor space. Both villas offer distinct styles, expanding the Vermelho Hotel’s unique guest experience. Rates for La Salvada start from €2,200 per night, and La Maison des Bateaux starts from €1,700 per night.