"In Hotel São Paulo",
design: aflalo/gasperini
In the heart of Vila Olímpia, one of São Paulo's neighborhoods, a project has emerged that takes urban hospitality to a whole new level. "W Hotel São Paulo," designed by the aflalo/gasperini studio, is the first property of the "W Hotels" brand in Brazil. This building is not a typical hotel. It is a space that is alive, where the city comes inside and the guest becomes part of its vibrant energy. The architects focused on the idea of combining experiences: urban living with private comfort, culture with relaxation, global style with local character.
"W Hotel São Paulo" in Brazil - the project was built in the heart of Vila Olímpia, one of the districts of São Paulo
photo by Pedro Mascaro © aflalo/gasperini
A city within reach
Even at street level, it's clear that the project goes beyond standard schemes. The open passageway connecting Funchal and Helena streets, designed by Benedito Abbud, creates a green walkway where restaurants, bars and community spaces encourage people to stop. Surfacing the same as the sidewalks introduces a sense of continuity - as you walk through the passage, you can feel that the hotel and the city are one. It's a place where the boundaries between the public and the private become fluid. Guests can enjoy both the tranquility of their own suite and the vibrancy of the common space. It's a balance that makes the hotel a natural extension of the city.
"W Hotel São Paulo" in Brazil.
photo by Maíra Acayaba © aflalo/gasperini
A lump that stands out in the skyline
The tower has a sculptural, expressive form that becomes a landmark in the district. The first 23 floors are occupied by W Residences - 216 apartments ranging from 53 to 102 square meters. Residents have access to a swimming pool, gym and social lounges with panoramic views of the city.
"W Hotel São Paulo" in Brazil - interior.
photo by Maíra Acayaba © aflalo/gasperini
The 24th floor houses the reception area and Yōso Bar & Café, where the Japanese art of mixology blends with Brazilian energy. It's a meeting place that inspires and lets you feel the pulse of the city without leaving the hotel. Located higher up are 179 hotel rooms, including 16 suites designed by Nini Andrade Silva, whose interiors combine Brazilian expression with international elegance and a touch of fantasy.
"W Hotel São Paulo" in Brazil - a view of the tower's glass facade
photo by Maíra Acayaba © aflalo/gasperini
The facade consists of panels of varying shapes, and the dark finish emphasizes the building's sculptural silhouette. The tower's crown, rising 120 meters, attracts gazes from afar, while the rooftop skypool offers panoramic views of São Paulo - from the parks to the city's wide arteries.
"W Hotel São Paulo" in Brazil.
photo by Maíra Acayaba © aflalo/gasperini
Terraces, pools and common areas encourage relaxation and gatherings, while allowing for intimacy. It's a hybrid of a place to live and a space to meet - a hotel that doesn't just offer accommodation, but becomes a platform for urban living.
"W Hotel São Paulo" in Brazil - a terrace with a swimming pool.
photo by Maíra Acayaba © aflalo/gasperini
Luxury that tells a story
The hotel is becoming a reference point for the entire neighborhood, and its presence in the São Paulo skyline symbolizes a new era of urban hospitality - vibrant, open and cosmopolitan. In São Paulo, it's proof that architecture can be not just an object, but an experience that engages, inspires and encourages people to rediscover the city.
Compiled by Anastazja Gibas
Illustrations provided courtesy of aflalo/gasperini studio.
