Student residence hall in Lisbon takes biophilic design to the next level
By David Malone, Associate Editor
Collegiate AC specializes in creating and operating luxury student accommodations throughout the United Kingdom. Shortly, Collegiate AC will be expanding its reach into Portugal and Spain, as well. The Marquês de Pombal, located in Lisbon, Portugal, will be the first overseas Collegiate AC location when it opens in January 2018.
The new location will feature a swimming pool with ceramic tiles and bespoke furniture pieces and huge artwork in the main façade painted by a locally commissioned artist. Its most stunning feature, however, will be the Skylight Lounge.
The lounge, true to its name, is filled with natural light, which it puts to use with the large amount of flora planted in the space. Olive trees and flowerbeds are peppered between the space’s furniture. What truly catches the eye, however, are the long hanging fronds of foliage suspended from the ceiling. “We’ve used biophilic design concepts at Marquês de Pombal to provide residents with the wellness benefits associated with a deep connection to nature,” says Heriberto Cuanalo, CEO, Collegiate AC, in a release.
Other amenities included in the new Marquês de Pombal include an on-site cinema, a private fitness suite, 24/7 concierge, private dinner party rooms, secure bicycle storage, and a library. The property offers a selection of studio apartments and immediate access to Lisbon and its many universities.