In the center of Lisbon, EVOLUTION Valbom Hotel is an urban, relaxed, and multifunctional meeting point where the city is experienced at a contemporary pace. Part of the SANA Hotels group, this 4-star hotel positions itself as a lifestyle proposal that combines design, technology, and irreverence, with an approach close to the local community.
“Come as a guest, leave as an Evolutioner” is the motto that captures its essence and an invitation to enter, experience, and be surprised. From modern rooms to the rooftop with panoramic views over the capital, including coworking spaces, a 24-hour gym, bar, and restaurant, everything was designed to provide flexible experiences.
It was in this cosmopolitan setting that Horto do Campo Grande was challenged to develop a landscaping project tailored to the EVOLUTION concept. Designed, executed and delivered in September 2024, the intervention stemmed from the proposal developed by Landscape Architect Andreia Sousa, who is part of the Project and Construction of Green Spaces Department team, with maintenance handled by the Interior Decoration and Maintenance Department.
This project, which covered different spaces, both interior and exterior, was based on respect for the hotel’s language, reinforcing its welcoming and authentic character:
- Entrance: Linear beds and planters were filled with species such as Pittosporum tobira nana, Hedera helix and Buxus, creating a green frame that welcomes guests and visitors from the moment they arrive.
- Indoor areas: Contemporary design planters featured tropical, hardy species such as Strelitzia nicolai, Kentia and Zamioculcas zamiifolia. In the interior garden, species such as Ficus benjamina, Monstera deliciosa, and Philodendron xanadu created a fresh and bright atmosphere, complemented by climbing plants that provide verticality and movement.
- Outdoor garden on floor 0 and gym area: A multifunctional space where Bougainvilleas, Strelitzias, Philodendrons, Clusias and Agaves, supported by a drip irrigation system, were combined with artificial turf, adding colour, shade and comfort.
- Pool and rooftop: Here, the bespoke Horto Collection planters stand out, made to measure in 1.5 mm zincor sheet metal and a custom colour, paired with terracotta pots. Species such as Strelitzias, Dypsis, Yuccas and Agaves
To understand the impact of this intervention, we invited the EVOLUTION Valbom Hotel to share its perspective—and guests’ feedback—on the impact of this refurbishment:
What was the basis for refurbishing these spaces?
The refurbishment of the outdoor and indoor areas with greenery came from the desire to strengthen the modern, welcoming and sustainable identity of the EVOLUTION Valbom Hotel. The aim was to create more pleasant, balanced environments connected to nature—that is, spaces that contribute to the well-being of guests and staff.
More than an aesthetic matter, this intervention also sought to improve environmental quality by promoting thermal comfort, air purification and a harmonious setting that reflects the EVOLUTION brand’s urban, vibrant and relaxed concept.
What led you to choose Horto do Campo Grande to develop this project, and how would you describe the experience of working with Horto do Campo Grande?
Choosing Horto do Campo Grande was due to its solid reputation and proven experience in the sector, combined with the ability to offer a complete service—from technical advice to execution and maintenance.
The portfolio of completed projects and the quality of the plant species supplied were decisive factors, inspiring confidence from the outset.
The collaboration was very positive, marked by the team’s availability and professionalism, attention to detail, and speed of execution. The flexibility to adapt to the hotel’s specific needs ensured a result that matched the project’s high standards and aesthetic.
How do you feel the plants and landscape design enhance the identity of the EVOLUTION Valbom Hotel? In which areas of the hotel does the presence of plants have the greatest impact on the guest experience? What feedback have you received from your guests regarding the green spaces that were implemented?
Landscape design and the integration of plants play an essential role in enhancing the identity of the EVOLUTION Valbom Hotel, reinforcing the balance between the urban environment and the relaxed, contemporary spirit that defines the brand.
Introducing natural elements in the common areas and outdoor spaces promotes a sense of well-being, freshness and tranquillity, making the spaces more welcoming and visually engaging.
The impact is particularly evident in the lobby, the rooftop, the outdoor patio, and the restaurant and bar areas, where contact with nature completely transforms the guest experience.
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many visitors highlight the “green touch” as a differentiating element that conveys serenity and contributes to a more enjoyable stay.
How important do you consider the maintenance service carried out by Horto do Campo Grande?
Regular maintenance is seen as essential to preserve the vitality and balance of the green spaces, ensuring they remain well cared for, healthy and visually consistent with the hotel’s image.
Horto do Campo Grande’s service ensures that continuity with great professionalism, rigour and attention to detail, allowing the project to retain, over time, the same impact and harmony it had at the moment of its inauguration.
The team, always available and proactive, inspires confidence and peace of mind, enabling EVOLUTION Valbom to maintain the standard of excellence and comfort it offers its guests.
Photography © SANA Hotels
© Companhia das Cores for Horto do Campo Grande
