Verdelago Resort Algarve, Contemporary Portuguese luxury holiday retreats, Portugal architecture
Verdelago Resort in Algarve, Portugal
6 November 2024
Architecture: S+A Architects
Location: Algarve, South of Portugal
Photos by Interior: Rita Feria – Exterior: Catarina Diniz
Verdelago Resort, Algarve Property Design
S+A Architects (Saraiva + Associados) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the first phase of the Verdelago Resort, a collection of condos, villas and townhouses, marking a significant milestone in Portugal’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
Nestled along the rugged and sandy shores of Algarve, and close to the border with Spain, the first phase of the development is poised to set a new standard in eco-friendly luxury, becoming the first resort in the country to adhere to the prestigious Green Globes Certification. S+A Architects was selected for this groundbreaking project because of its deep knowledge of sustainability-focused design. The initial phase includes a collection of luxury condos and townhouses designed to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, followed by a multi-phase rollout of a hotel and luxury amenities run by Marriott International.
The beauty of the vernacular house form, elevated in composition and luxury finishes
This development needed to grow from the land itself, and S+A designed a series of playful vernacular intersected house forms with peaked roof lines, as an ode to simple home construction that would be typical of any heritage seaside village. Each residence is designed to maximize connection with the land and beach views.
The rooftop patio has unobstructed, 360-degree sightlines of the rugged landscape, with sunlight creatively modulated by structural trusses repeated in the roofline. The same sophisticated, repetitive lines show up again as architectural screens to create both shade and elevate public spaces. Each of the residences are connected by meandering walkways and lookout towers so guests can walk the landscape and quickly access the waterfront.
Portuguese taipa: an ancient construction technique brought to modern life
The Verdelago Resort emphasizes sustainable construction practices, featuring a low-density development which prioritizes environmental, social, cultural and economic stewardship from the ground up. Portuguese taipa, reminiscent of ancient, rammed earth construction is a traditional building technique that involves compacting layers of natural materials like earth, clay or gravel between wooden forms. Historically common in the south of Portugal, this method creates thick, solid walls with excellent thermal insulation. In modern construction, rammed earth is seeing a resurgence due to its eco-friendly qualities, low carbon footprint, and ability to regulate indoor temperatures.
S+A carefully integrated this traditional technique into the contemporary architecture of these luxury properties to ensure they not only look and function beautifully but that every aspect of their construction is future-forward and meets the highest level of sustainability.
The future of sustainable luxury hospitality
With a strong commitment to renewable energy, the resort is designed to be self-sufficient, equipped with a photovoltaic plant that generates more energy than it consumes. In addition, the Verdelago Resort implements a comprehensive water management system that includes native landscaping to reduce irrigation needs, rainwater recovery, and wastewater recycling. These measures combined with energy-efficient design and high-quality materials, ensure a low ecological footprint while fostering a conscious and responsible lifestyle. Awarded the prestigious Portuguese National Prize for Innovation in Real Estate and the National Real Estate Award in 2024, S+A Architects is excited to lead this transformative project, setting a benchmark for sustainable hospitality in Portugal and beyond.
Verdelago Resort in Algarve, Portugal – Building Information
Design: S+A Architects – https://www.saraivaeassociados.com/
About Green Globes Certification
Verdelago is the first tourist resort in Portugal on its way to achieving the Green Globes Certification from the construction phase, with sustainability as a priority in all its operations. This is one of the most demanding international certifications for sustainable tourism, with an affiliation with the United Nations Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Green Globes Standard and recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). Present in more than 90 countries and with 432 members (certified hotels and resorts worldwide), this certification recognizes hotels and resorts that commit to improving the environmental and social management of the hospitality industry.
About S+A Architects (Saraiva + Associados)
S+A brings experience, artistry, craft and business acumen to every architectural solution. From large-scale urban design to micro solutions that bring comfort to each project, S+A is relentless in its pursuit of quality. Under the leadership and vision of Miguel Saraiva, S+A is a Portuguese office that has expanded to nine countries, driven by a deep understanding of community, and a forward-looking approach to architecture and city building.
Photography: Interior photo credit: Rita Feria – Exterior photo credit: Catarina Diniz
Verdelago Resort, Algarve, Portugal images / information received 061124
Location: Algarve, Portugal, southwestern Europe
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