Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré district has always pulsated with vibrant energy, its streets weaving a tapestry of cobblestones, bustling bars, and the haunting melodies of fado singers. Over time, it has evolved into a celebrated destination, renowned for its lively atmosphere, rich history, and dynamic nightlife scene. Its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs draws in locals and visitors alike, promising an unforgettable experience at every turn. 

A testament to its enduring allure is the district’s revitalization project, which has breathed new life into its historic buildings while preserving their unique charm. Among these architectural gems stands a once-forgotten relic – a historic Pombaline-era building, once a notorious brothel silently witnessing Lisbon’s bohemian past. Yet within its weathered walls, a new chapter unfolds, symbolizing the district’s resilience and spirit of reinvention. 

Enter Mainside, a company unlike any other. They weren’t developers or architects in the traditional sense. They were storytellers, weaving narratives from the threads of history. Their mission? To breathe new life into these forgotten structures, transforming them into captivating experiences. And the old brothel on Cais do Sodré was their next canvas. 

Unearthing Potential Beneath Layers of Time

The building was a wreck. Years of disrepair had taken their toll, leaving gaping wounds in its once-proud facade. The upper floors lay dormant, riddled with structural problems. Yet, beneath the layers of dust and neglect, Mainside, in cooperation with the visionary architect Gonçalo Queirós Carvalho and with Roger Mor’s compelling storytelling, saw potential — the potential to recapture the building’s essence, to transform it into a portal to Lisbon’s intriguing past. 

A Time Capsule Reimagined

Their vision was audacious – a themed lodge that would transport guests back in time to the heart of Lisbon’s bohemian era. The existing Pensão Amor bar on the ground floor, a vibrant cultural space established in 2011, would remain. But the upper floors would be meticulously restored, each space imbued with a story waiting to be told. 

The renovation was a delicate dance, a constant negotiation between respecting the building’s heritage and incorporating modern comforts. Accessibility became a priority, with the installation of an elevator – a feat of engineering considering the building’s aging wooden structure. Each room was meticulously refurbished, transforming barren spaces into havens of comfort. Private bathrooms, a modern luxury absent before, were added. 

Where History Whispers and Comfort Reigns

Yet, comfort couldn’t come at the expense of the building’s soul. Mainside prioritized preserving the original character wherever possible. Exposed brick walls whispered tales of a bygone era, while high ceilings echoed with the laughter of past patrons. The team sourced fine fabrics to line the walls, each drape a testament to the building’s former grandeur. Vintage pieces, meticulously collected, became more than just furniture; they were silent storytellers, hinting at the lives lived within these walls. 

Soundproofing a Symphony of Comfort

Soundproofing became a paramount concern. The lodges’ vibrant location, nestled amidst the city’s pulsating nightlife, demanded innovative solutions. State-of-the-art windows were installed, creating a haven of tranquility despite the surrounding cacophony. The team worked tirelessly to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep for their guests. 

Luxury wasn’t just about comfort; it was about creating an immersive experience. The design incorporated museum-quality elements, each piece a window into Lisbon’s fascinating history. Collaborations with contemporary artists, like the illustrator and artist Nuno Saraiva who adorned the staircase with a captivating painting, added a touch of modern flair. But the true stars were the rooms themselves. 

A Journey Through Time, One Room at a Time

Each of the 22 rooms was meticulously curated to embody the essence of a character who once inhabited the brothel in the 1960s. Guests are invited to inhabit the harlots’ rooms, where every nook and cranny unveils the never-before-revealed secrets of this former establishment. Unusual personal objects, surprising day-to-day business documents, mysterious messages, and hidden surprises tell the tale of a bygone era. 

Personalized wallpaper adorns the bathrooms, each telling a different story and adding to the immersive experience. Velvet armchairs and plush carpets exude a sense of forgotten opulence, while strategically placed lighting creates an ambiance of intimacy. But the real thrill lies in the hidden surprises, accessible with just a press of a red button, promising a touch of intrigue and excitement. 

In each room, guests encounter historical elements and a distinctive narrative, guaranteeing that the experience varies based on the room selected. Moreover, the establishment prioritizes fun and dynamism, as evidenced by themed equipment like rods, rings, and handcuffs, along with personalized reception services that include a welcome drink and a thoughtfully curated selection of erotic items. 

Challenges and Triumphs: A Story of Innovation

The challenges were formidable. Integrating an elevator into the aging structure required a strategic redesign using reinforced concrete. Explaining the unique concept to potential guests and ensuring a smooth experience for those who embraced the unconventional theme demanded a creative engagement strategy. 

But Mainside persevered. They were driven by a passion for preserving history while creating unforgettable experiences. Their dedication and innovative solutions paid off. Pensão Amor Madam’s Lodge wasn’t just a hotel; it was a portal to a bygone era, a living testament to Lisbon’s vibrant past. 

A Legacy Reborn: Recognition and Reward

The prestigious Best Luxury Hotel Renovation award bestowed upon them by Luxury Lifestyle Awards was a sweet validation of their efforts. But the true reward lay in the smiles of satisfied guests, their eyes sparkling with wonder as they stepped back in time within the walls of the reborn brothel. Mainside had breathed new life into this forgotten building, weaving a captivating narrative that promised to echo through the halls of Pensão Amor Madam’s Lodge for years to come. 

A Symbol of Innovation in Historic Preservation

Mainside’s success story extends beyond the walls of Pensão Amor Madam’s Lodge. Their innovative approach to historic renovation has garnered them recognition within the hospitality industry. Their projects demonstrate that luxury and history can co-exist and that modern comforts can be seamlessly integrated into existing structures without sacrificing their character. Mainside doesn’t just renovate buildings; it curates experiences. They tell stories through design, transforming cold bricks and mortar into living narratives that transport guests to different eras. 

Inspired to breathe new life into a historic building?

Mainside is always looking for new opportunities to collaborate with passionate individuals and organizations. If you own a historic property with a story to tell, visit the website https://mainside.pt/en/ to learn more about its approach and how Mainside can help you transform your vision into reality. Together, you can preserve history while creating unforgettable experiences for generations to come. 

To discover the Pensão Amor Madam’s Lodge, please visit: https://pensaoamor.com/