Oppenheim Architecture + Design

Designed by Chad Oppenheim and Arthur Casas, the Emiliano hotel sits on the famed Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro. The project fronts one of the most beautiful views in the world while being surrounded on three sides by dilapidated apartment buildings from the 1950’s. Through simple yet powerful spatial manipulations, the hotel optimizes its beneficial attributes while subverting its negative forces.

Inspired by Rio’s landscape, a distinctive façade fronts the hotel and differentiates it from the neighbouring concrete buildings. The weatherproof panels can be completely opened from bedroom balconies, resulting in an elevation that constantly changes in response to the requirements of each guest. When open, the panels allow natural light to flood the interiors. While closed, the panels ensure privacy without compromising light, ventilation, or views.

Guests circulate and inhabit the hotel in total privacy, away from the general public. The ground floor includes a bar adjacent to the entrance before visitors are directed in one of two ways. The first route leads to the restaurant and business center. The other leads to the hotel’s reception with a private area for guests. The building holds 90 units across 12 floors, with on-site amenities including a gym, a spa, and a sauna. Both the restaurant and a private library open up to separate courtyards filled with tropical vegetation.

The interiors, designed by Arthur Casas, are inspired by the work of artist and landscaper Roberto Burle Marx – designer of the Copacabana beach promenade. The work of Brazilian masters, such as Sergio Rodrigues, as well as contemporary designers like Paola Lenti, are integrated throughout.