Don Majestic: A Sculptural Icon in Hotel Architecture

Architects Natalia Ottonello and Ian Guevara Craft a Poetic Masterpiece

The design of Don Majestic Hotel was driven by a desire to create a unique and sculptural architectural shape. The architects sought to transcend traditional architectural boundaries, aiming for a poetic expression in architecture. The hotel's design was inspired by the curves of nature, resulting in a sculptural curved piece of architecture that is consistent from the macro to the micro scale, from the exterior design to the interior design.

Realizing the sculptural shape of the hotel required innovative engineering. The building's floor plans vary in size, necessitating an exceptional engineering structure with a unique central pillar at the core of the building. This design feature allows for uninterrupted, incredible views. The skin of the building is another essential aspect, with curved glasses installed throughout to maintain the essence of the sculptural shape.

Don Majestic Hotel spans 5,900 m2, with 19 floors and a height of 54 m. It houses 52 rooms, including 48 standard rooms and 4 luxury suites. The hotel also offers various amenities such as outdoor and indoor heated swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, a conference room, a restaurant, and a cafeteria.

The design process involved two curved architectural volumes. The main volume is vertical, with an elliptical plan that varies in size at every level, with symmetry in the middle of the building. This main volume holds all the hotel rooms and many amenities. The secondary volume is horizontal and houses the hall and the cafeteria. The architects aimed to create a strong aesthetic harmony between these forms.

The project, located in Punta del Este, Uruguay, started in 2013 and was completed in 2019. The design of the hotel was a response to the client's desire for a unique and innovative architectural jewel. The architects sought to create an emotion in people, to surprise and seduce with both exterior and interior design. This resulted in the creation of Don Majestic Hotel, a sculptural and unique architectural icon that stands out in the touristic city of Punta del Este.

Don Majestic Hotel's unique design and innovative architectural approach have been recognized with a Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The award is a testament to the hotel's strong technical characteristics, splendid artistic skill, and the level of excellence it introduces.