Octant Ponta Delgada has unveiled its new look following a renovation project in collaboration with internationally award-winning interior designer Nini Andrade Silva. Inspired by the beauty of the natural landscape and Azorean culture, Nini Andrade Silva has orchestrated a delicate transformation of the hotel’s communal spaces to encourage deep connections with the local history and traditions and immerse guests into the natural environment.
Nini Andrade Silva is one of the most prestigious interior designers in the world. Born in Funchal – Madeira Island – Nini graduated in Design at the Institute of Visual Arts, Design and Marketing (IADE) in Lisbon, and simultaneously pursued further academic and professional experience abroad, where she studied and worked in New York, London, Paris, South Africa and Denmark.
Nini’s work has an international recognition, having placed the name of Portugal alongside the biggest and best designers in the world. Be it at the academic or the professional level, Nini’s constantly leaving behind her unique mark in our society, a reason why she’s often asked to be a speaker at various conferences, lectures and debates. The invitations come from different areas such as Universities, Cultural Institutions, TED Talks, Fairs, Seminars, and so on. In parallel to her trajectory with internationally acknowledged work in interior design and architecture, Nini embraced two great passions: painting and helping the needy. Nini’s painting is included in one of the largest collections of Contemporary Art in the world –the Berardo Collection – and is a presence in museums around the world, namely in Portugal, Ireland and New York.
As a result of such recognition, in June of 2011, Nini was distinguished by the Portuguese Government with the Honored Title of “Grau de Oficial da Ordem do Infante D. Henrique”, by her rendered outstanding service to Portugal, both within and abroad. Nini is also an international consultant for IADE-U, thus integrating the panel of guest lecturers in this University of Design, where it received the IADE CAREER AWARD of 2010. In 2012, Nini was also appointed as Cultural Ambassador by the Guimarães European Capital of Culture.
Located on São Miguel in the Azores archipelago, Octant Ponta Delgada is a contemporary hotel with 123 stylish rooms, each with spectacular views over the sea and Ponta Delgada marina. Known for her sleek interiors and love for the natural world, Nini Andrade Silva’s design vision is reflected throughout the hotel’s communal spaces including the lobby, rooftop bar and restaurant. Public spaces are open, light and inviting, with elements such as moss and small palm trees used to reflect the natural verdant landscape of the island. A new cheese and wine shop, as well as products from local artisans, welcome guests to Octant Ponta Delgada, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and creating a more authentic and interactive arrival experience. The space serves as a canvas for local artists to fill with their work, paying homage to the unique crafts of the region and connecting with local communities.
Inspired by the idyllic sunsets and the Azores pineapple, traditional of São Miguel Island, Nini Andrade Silva has renovated Octant Ponta Delgada’s rooftop bar using a colour palette of yellow tones, working in perfect contrast with the white marble tables to create a chic, cosmopolitan and fresh feel. The exciting rooftop is home to the Whale Watching Bar, a favoured spot for locals in the know, to drop by during the day, boasts an expert team of mixologists creating an exquisite cocktail menu, promising to surprise guests with the best creations in the city enhanced by stunning views across the Atlantic Ocean.
Alongside its renovation project, Octant Ponta Delgada has unveiled a series of new gastronomic experiences at its À TERRA restaurant including a new cocktail Lounge Bar and an exclusive Chef’s Table experience. Curated by Chef Paulo Leite, the new menu will take guests on a journey through the aromas and flavours of the Portuguese island. The menu showcases locally sourced products from suppliers who share the restaurant’s passion and respect for nature and take in consideration the key pillars of the Octant Hotels brand: experiences rooted in traditions, ingredients, and history. The restaurant’s wine list will be a centrepiece to the new offering, with an exclusive list of the Archipelago’s varieties known for their unique volcanic terroir which will perfectly pair with the gastronomic experience of À TERRA Ponta Delgada.
To complement this offer, Octant Ponta Delgada has introduced a selection of new experiences that invite guests to enjoy the authentic and local beauty the island has to offer such as visiting local farmers, outdoor culinary experiences and exploring the botanical legacy of the island of São Miguel. Guests can also discover an array of local events such as live concerts, DJ sets and other cultural experiences.
