Hotel Britania – Former Hotel Império pays tribute to its architects

On August 13th, the anniversary of the birth of renowned Portuguese architect Cassiano Branco, Hotel Britania invites the public to discover the newly dedicated “Architects’ Room.”

Room 61 celebrates not only the architects who designed the building but also the many Guests who have stayed here since the hotel first opened in 1944.

Originally conceived by Cassiano Branco in 1942 as the Hotel do Império, the property was ahead of its time, particularly in its interior design. The innovative layout featured an aparthotel concept: 30 compact apartments with sitting room, bedroom, and bathroom on the upper floors, and on the ground floor, a spacious lobby with reception, concierge, telephones, support facilities, and a garden.

Cassiano Branco, whose prolific and multifaceted career made him one of the most important Portuguese architects of the first half of the 20th century, was joined by modernist architect Viana de Lima, who contributed to the design of the terraces housing restaurants and bars. Viana de Lima is also known for the Grande Hotel do Império in Porto, completed in 1943.

Promontório Architects

By the 1960s, the terraces had been occupied by temporary constructions. In 2005, a recessed floor was added, designed by Promontório Architects, who revived the “modern” spirit of Branco and Viana de Lima’s original vision. In keeping with the building’s character, marble, wood, and cork were used throughout, as in the other floors.

Hotel Britania has received numerous accolades over the years. In 2010, The Guardian named it one of the four best Art Deco hotels in Europe, and in 2019, The Telegraph included it among The World’s Most Amazing Art Deco Hotels.

Inside the “Architects’ Room,” Guests can browse a small library featuring books on the works of Branco, Viana de Lima, and many other celebrated architects — some of whom have been Guests at the hotel.

Part of Lisbon Heritage Hotels, Hotel Britania Art Deco is the only hotel from its era in Lisbon to have survived intact. With 35 spacious rooms and elegant public areas, the hotel blends refined Art Deco interiors with distinctive Portuguese symbols, offering Guests a timeless sense of place.