Inside São Paulo’s Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House’s Latest South American Venture

Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - From Ward to Wine Bar The Transformation of São Paulo's 1904 Hospital Building

The repurposing of São Paulo's former Matarazzo Hospital, built in 1904, into the Cidade Matarazzo complex is a remarkable example of urban renewal. This transformation, marked by the arrival of Soho House's first South American location, brings a new era of luxury and cultural expression to the site. The complex now blends modern design seamlessly with the historical building’s roots, a fascinating mixture of Italian and Portuguese architectural influences. The addition of the Rosewood Hotel, a collaboration with renowned architect Jean Nouvel, illustrates how luxury hospitality can complement the site’s history. It’s worth noting that, as with any such large-scale project, finding the right balance between preserving history and fulfilling current needs remains a delicate dance. This complex, in its effort to honor the site’s past while embracing its new identity, offers a compelling case study for urban revitalization and adaptive reuse.

The Matarazzo Hospital, a significant structure built in 1904, served São Paulo for nearly a century before its closure in 1993. This complex, designed by the Italian architect Giovanni Battista Bianchi in a neoclassical style, showcases a fascinating blend of design and purpose, quite advanced for its time. The Cidade Matarazzo project, encompassing the redeveloped site, now includes a variety of components, including a hotel, restaurants, and even office spaces. This adaptive reuse is a testament to how old structures can be transformed while preserving their historical value.

Within this revitalized space, Soho House São Paulo, the first South American location for the brand, found a home in the old maternity ward. The design seamlessly incorporates Brazilian modernism with respect for the building's origins, blending Italian and Portuguese influences. It aims to serve as a hub for creative individuals, further cementing the brand's growing footprint across Latin America.

The Rosewood Hotel, a part of this extensive project, offers 160 guest rooms and 100 residences. Designed by Pritzker Prize winner Jean Nouvel, the hotel is a study in contrasts, merging the historical structure with new additions. The hotel's design and the revitalization of the whole site, is a strong indicator of how urban environments can blend historical legacy with modern development.

The design process for Cidade Matarazzo highlights a focus on retaining the historical integrity of the building. It's an example of how repurposing structures can inject new life into areas of a city, making them both functional and appealing to tourists. This repurposing strategy is something that other growing cities may wish to consider. The integration of advanced engineering and architectural techniques ensured that historical details were preserved while catering to contemporary needs and comfort levels. For instance, the renovation uncovered original tile work and frescoes, which now add a rich layer to the site. These discoveries emphasize the importance of careful, strategic renovation, often revealing previously hidden aspects of a place.

In the surrounding area, one can witness a surge in culinary experiences, with individuals embracing the concept of food tourism. This includes the trend towards pairing local dishes with wines from Brazil's growing wine industry. This transformation of the hospital into a cultural hub has stimulated a ripple effect, encouraging a renewed appreciation for São Paulo's history and the potential for future projects in a similar vein.

What else is in this post?

1. Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - From Ward to Wine Bar The Transformation of São Paulo's 1904 Hospital Building
2. Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - Inside The Member Spaces A Mix of Brazilian and Italian Design Elements
3. Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - The Rooftop Pool and Restaurant with Views Across Bela Vista
4. Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - A 32 Room Boutique Hotel Created From The Original Maternity Wing
5. Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - The Secret Garden A Three Acre Urban Oasis in Downtown São Paulo
6. Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - Local Art Scene Takes Over Former Hospital Corridors With Monthly Exhibitions

Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - Inside The Member Spaces A Mix of Brazilian and Italian Design Elements

Stepping inside the member areas of Soho House São Paulo, you'll notice a seamless fusion of Brazilian and Italian design. This isn't just a superficial aesthetic choice, but a thoughtful nod to the building's history and the city's cultural landscape. Local artisans were integral to the interior design process, resulting in a space adorned with Brazilian-made furnishings and artwork. You'll find a blend of styles that manages to feel both modern and rooted in the building's past. What was once solely a functional hospital ward has evolved into a place where members can relax, savor a meal, and experience the creative pulse of São Paulo. This transformation demonstrates the skillful marriage of a vibrant contemporary vibe and respectful preservation of the building's unique past. It's a design story that blends the old with the new, highlighting the building's historical weight while providing a welcoming space for its members.

Within the member areas, a fascinating blend of design styles is evident, drawing from both Brazilian and Italian influences. This fusion reflects the history of the site and the city itself, showcasing how cultural heritage can be woven into contemporary spaces.

The interior design is a product of a collaboration with local artisans, resulting in furniture and artworks crafted in Brazil. The incorporation of these locally produced pieces emphasizes the desire to celebrate the rich artistic heritage of the region, a decision that seems sensible given the global trend towards favoring locally sourced materials in design.

The ground floor of this area, designated as a members club, serves as a display for the city's art and design scene. One can see a clear focus on connecting the space with the artistic pulse of São Paulo. The decision to place the members club on the ground floor implies a desire to make this space not only accessible to members but also to subtly attract interest from a broader group within the urban environment.

This section of the facility, originally the maternity ward of the historic hospital, adds a layer of complexity to the architectural narrative of the site. It's noteworthy that Soho House has opted to retain some of the core design features, effectively merging history with the concept of a relaxed space for socializing. The choice of this section also speaks to the broader societal shift in hospitality towards experiences that connect users with a richer context.

Soho House Sao Paulo's design tells a story, not just of aesthetic choices, but of the city's history and the broader design trends shaping modern hospitality. It also highlights the value of preserving a sense of place, within a revitalized section of the city. The incorporation of floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the 32 bedrooms adds a level of practicality, allowing in significant amounts of natural light, an important factor in luxury hospitality. By preserving and showcasing aspects of the original structure, such as exposed brickwork or perhaps tilework, the design maintains a historical connection for those who experience this space, a smart move that reinforces the concept of heritage within a new context. The goal is to create a space that's both welcoming and engaging, serving as a haven for members to relax, partake in culinary experiences, and connect with the broader creative energy of São Paulo.

Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - The Rooftop Pool and Restaurant with Views Across Bela Vista

High atop the revitalized Matarazzo Hospital, the rooftop pool and restaurant provides a stunning vantage point over the Bela Vista district. This outdoor area, integrated into Soho House São Paulo, is intended to be a social hub, seamlessly blending relaxation and a vibrant culinary scene. The pool offers a welcome respite, while the restaurant aims to capture the essence of São Paulo's growing food scene. The combination of the refreshing pool with thoughtfully crafted dishes positions it as a destination where people can connect within a beautifully restored historical context. The panoramic views, along with the emphasis on a creative and social atmosphere, may well make this rooftop space a prominent destination within the city. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, this outdoor area with its views and culinary focus is another example of the ways the old Matarazzo hospital site is transforming and reconnecting to the city. However, it remains to be seen if this particular element will truly establish itself as a go-to spot in São Paulo’s saturated culinary and entertainment landscape.

Soho House São Paulo's rooftop pool, perched 24 meters above the city, offers a refreshing escape and an exceptional vantage point over Bela Vista. It's interesting to contrast the early 20th-century steam heating systems of the original Matarazzo Hospital with the sophisticated HVAC systems that maintain a comfortable environment in the modern pool area year-round. This contrast highlights the advancements in technology applied to a space that once served a completely different purpose.


The rooftop restaurant's menu, developed by well-regarded chefs, features dishes that incorporate a diverse range of Brazil's native fruits—over 400 species exist. This showcases a unique culinary perspective rooted in the region's biodiversity, highlighting how food can be a platform for expressing local identity.


The incorporation of large glass elements in the rooftop's design is a reflection of "biophilic design" principles—a current trend in architecture that aims to maximize human connection with nature. It's fascinating how this connection to the outdoors is believed to positively influence individuals' well-being and productivity, potentially leading to a more enjoyable experience for visitors.

The rooftop also incorporates vegetation, aligned with the concept of mitigating urban heat islands. This seemingly simple design choice can have a significant impact on the immediate environment by reducing temperatures around the pool, which likely improves comfort and visual appeal. São Paulo, with roughly 200 sunny days annually, presents a unique design challenge. It's intriguing that the rooftop is carefully designed to leverage natural sunlight while mitigating its downsides, incorporating features like adjustable shade structures that adapt to changing sun angles throughout the day.


The rooftop bar serves cocktails that feature Brazilian rum, known as cachaça, a beverage that has gained popularity worldwide. The traditional production process of cachaça reportedly dates back to the 16th century, offering a glimpse into the region's long history of distilling. This cultural aspect makes the drink a point of interest for those exploring local beverages.

It's been established that a view can significantly enhance the dining experience, likely increasing satisfaction levels. The restaurant's panoramic vista surely magnifies this effect, leading patrons to potentially savor their dishes more. There's a potential for future research to see if there's a correlation between these exceptional views and customer satisfaction at this location.

The pool's smart water filtration systems are capable of recycling up to 80% of the water used, an intelligent approach to sustainability and operational efficiency. It's a notable example of how even luxury settings can embrace resourcefulness.

Finally, the rooftop's acoustic design is an important element in the experience. Noise reduction techniques minimize urban sound, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Research on the impact of sound in hospitality settings suggests that mitigating outside noise can significantly improve relaxation and social interaction. It's an interesting element of the overall design concept that reinforces the idea of relaxation and quiet within this urban location.

Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - A 32 Room Boutique Hotel Created From The Original Maternity Wing

Within the revitalized Cidade Matarazzo complex, nestled within the former Matarazzo Hospital, lies a 32-room boutique hotel, Rosewood São Paulo, built from the original maternity wing. This project is a fascinating blend of history and modern luxury, with the hotel design seamlessly weaving together the building's past with the demands of contemporary hospitality. The architectural vision of Jean Nouvel guides the space, blending preserved elements with new structures to create a unique hotel experience. The hotel's location within a multi-use development, a testament to thoughtful urban planning, also offers access to numerous restaurants and public spaces, making the area a destination within the city. It's an intriguing example of how the past can inform a space's present, offering travelers a glimpse into São Paulo's history while providing them with the amenities of a luxurious, modern hotel. The integration of old and new within the hotel's design, along with its role within the larger Cidade Matarazzo project, positions it as a new landmark in São Paulo, a place where a sense of the city's past meets the expectations of modern travelers. It remains to be seen, however, if this innovative model of repurposing a hospital can succeed within São Paulo's already saturated hotel landscape.

The original maternity wing of the Matarazzo Hospital, operational from 1904 until its closure in 1993, played a vital role in São Paulo's social landscape. It's not just a medical relic, but a place where a significant portion of the city's population was born.

The Matarazzo Hospital's design skillfully integrated locally sourced bricks and tiles, a testament to the engineering prowess of early 20th-century Brazil. The level of detail and execution in construction was impressive for that period.

During the revitalization process, the design team stumbled upon a fascinating trove of historical items. This included original surgical tools and patient records, offering a glimpse into the medical techniques of the early 1900s, which is of great interest to anyone keen on history.

Integrating modern comforts within the historical structure was a challenging engineering feat. Sophisticated structural reinforcement methods were employed to maintain the integrity of the original load-bearing elements while still making the building suitable for modern use.

The former maternity ward is now home to rooms featuring cutting-edge technology, like automated lighting and climate control. This stark contrast underscores the vast technological changes and heightened user expectations within the hospitality industry over the past decades.

The rooftop pool, a highlight of the hotel, leverages advanced technology to adapt dynamically to fluctuating weather patterns. Automated systems fine-tune water temperature and level based on real-time weather data, ensuring a comfortable experience irrespective of the season.

Given São Paulo's geological profile, meeting seismic building codes was paramount. Significant engineering was required to ensure that both the hotel's structure and the comfort of its guests are not compromised during seismic events.

The rooftop restaurant adopts a farm-to-table approach by partnering with local farmers. This strategy boosts the local economy while also providing the kitchen with an extensive selection of Brazilian fruits and vegetables—over 400 distinct species are said to exist in the region.

The club areas feature meticulous acoustic engineering. This includes sound-absorbing materials and thoughtful design configurations to minimize the impact of São Paulo's vibrant urban soundscape, enhancing the sense of peace and tranquility for guests.

Historical records reveal that the original Matarazzo Hospital was a pioneer in São Paulo, boasting one of the first dedicated radiology departments. This historical detail adds a fascinating layer to the site's story, connecting the hotel's guests with the facility's legacy in the world of medicine.

Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - The Secret Garden A Three Acre Urban Oasis in Downtown São Paulo

Nestled within the revitalized Cidade Matarazzo complex, "The Secret Garden: A Three Acre Urban Oasis in Downtown São Paulo" offers a refreshing counterpoint to the city's energetic atmosphere. This expansive green space is a haven for native plants and local wildlife, designed to provide a tranquil escape from the urban bustle. Its focus on sustainability goes beyond mere aesthetics, contributing positively to São Paulo's overall environmental well-being.

The garden underscores a growing trend in urban planning—the integration of green spaces into dense city centers. In a city known for its high-rise buildings and fast-paced lifestyle, this urban oasis represents a deliberate attempt to reintroduce nature into the concrete jungle. It could serve as an inspiration for other metropolitan areas seeking to strike a balance between urban development and environmental responsibility.

Visitors to the nearby Soho House, a stylish members club in the same complex, have the added benefit of enjoying this unique blend of nature and social interaction. The garden becomes an integral part of the overall experience, demonstrating how such spaces can positively impact both personal well-being and community engagement within a vibrant metropolis. It's still to be seen whether this approach will fully blossom in a city with such a robust and established culture surrounding its parks and gardens.

The three-acre "Secret Garden" atop the revitalized Matarazzo Hospital complex in downtown São Paulo is an unexpected oasis within the urban landscape. It serves as a microcosm for understanding how biodiversity can thrive even in dense metropolitan settings. A surprisingly diverse range of over 30 bird species has been observed, turning this urban garden into a sort of haven for feathered visitors. This alone showcases the potential for fostering wildlife habitats within the city.

The Secret Garden also incorporates centuries-old plant species, some of which date back to the hospital's construction. This inclusion of traditional Brazilian medicinal herbs reveals a fascinating link between botanical history and local cultural traditions. It's remarkable to consider the knowledge systems that were integrated into the design of this space.

Further investigation into the garden's design reveals that the soil composition was meticulously crafted. The use of native Brazilian soil mixed with organic materials is a testament to advanced techniques in urban horticulture. These specific soil recipes are no doubt tailored to optimize plant growth, something that might be of interest to other urban development projects.

The garden's impressive rainwater harvesting system highlights another engineering aspect. São Paulo's tropical climate is renowned for heavy rainfall, and this system ingeniously captures and redirects this water for irrigation. It reportedly recycles up to 50% of the garden's water needs, offering a useful model for urban landscape sustainability.

Interestingly, the strategically placed vegetation within the garden has been shown to effectively regulate temperature. It's been reported that the Secret Garden helps to lower the surrounding air temperature by up to 5°C. This cooling effect is particularly helpful during São Paulo's hot summer months, demonstrating the potential for green spaces to mitigate urban heat island effects.

The design of the Secret Garden skillfully integrates elements that reflect the history of the Matarazzo Hospital. Pathways are constructed using locally sourced stones, mimicking the materials used in the original building. This creates a physical connection to the site's heritage, making the garden more than just a green space.

It's worth noting that the Secret Garden's developers have thoughtfully incorporated solar panels into the surrounding structures. Studies have shown that these installations can produce around 10% of the energy required for lighting and irrigation. This approach reflects a balanced approach to energy management, something that may be worth considering in other urban projects.

The garden's integration into the culinary offerings at Soho House further enhances its appeal. Many of the garden's edible plants, including local fruits and herbs, are used in the restaurant's dishes. This aligns with the global trend towards locally sourced cuisine and supports the idea of creating an enhanced experience for guests.

Various art installations scattered throughout the garden utilize recycled materials. These are not simply aesthetic additions but serve educational purposes as well, reminding us of the importance of art and sustainability in urban spaces. Studies suggest that engaging with art within public spaces can benefit mental well-being, furthering the value of this integration.

Finally, the Secret Garden regularly hosts cultural events and workshops related to Brazilian gardening and culinary traditions. These activities appeal to both locals and visitors alike. This aspect shows how green spaces can serve as vibrant cultural hubs, promoting community involvement while also educating visitors about the local culture and customs. The garden is a fascinating example of how urban development can respect the environment and the social fabric of the city.

Inside São Paulo's Historic Matarazzo Hospital A Detailed Look at Soho House's Latest South American Venture - Local Art Scene Takes Over Former Hospital Corridors With Monthly Exhibitions

The revitalized Matarazzo Hospital in São Paulo isn't just a luxury hotel and members' club, it's becoming a prominent showcase for the city's artistic talent. Monthly exhibitions, under the title "Made by Brazilians", have taken over the hospital's corridors, transforming them into dynamic art spaces. This initiative features a blend of Brazilian and international artistic voices—100 artists in total, with a 50/50 split between local and global contributors. The art displayed reflects São Paulo's diverse artistic spirit and strengthens the city's rich cultural landscape.

The exhibitions within the repurposed hospital showcase how the past can be interwoven with present-day creative expressions. The site's historical significance, combined with the vibrant artwork, makes it a fascinating example of how a space can adapt to the times while still honoring its heritage. The exhibition program is evidence of the City Matarazzo project's commitment to fostering creativity and encouraging a broader cultural conversation in the heart of São Paulo. It remains to be seen if this approach to revitalizing a historical site with art will truly resonate with locals and tourists alike in the long term, but the initial concept of connecting art with a site's history is a unique addition to the city's cultural landscape.

The repurposed corridors of the former Matarazzo Hospital now host a dynamic monthly art scene, showcasing the burgeoning creative energy of São Paulo. Each month, these exhibitions, often curated by local art collectives, transform the historic space into a vibrant platform for contemporary artists. Interestingly, many installations thoughtfully incorporate reclaimed materials from the hospital itself, weaving a unique narrative that intertwines art and the building's historical significance.

The Matarazzo Hospital, built in 1904, was a pioneering structure in São Paulo, employing reinforced concrete—a revolutionary building material at that time—which now underpins many of the city's modern structures. This early adoption of advanced building techniques lends a special layer to the cultural significance of this place. The hospital also held a prominent position in Sao Paulo's medical history, housing one of the city's first radiology departments.

These monthly art exhibitions are not merely decorative; they're part of a larger movement within São Paulo's art community. These events are often designed with an interdisciplinary approach, blending visual arts with performances, workshops, and stimulating conversations. Such hybrid events foster a strong collaborative environment, further elevating São Paulo's position as a hub for contemporary artistic expression.

It's intriguing to consider the psychological effect of these exhibitions. Studies on immersive art experiences suggest that environments like these can evoke strong emotional responses, making the repurposed hospital corridors an ideal space for creative dialogues and fostering community engagement. This shift in how the corridors are used, once bustling with patients and healthcare workers, now being infused with art and cultural engagement, reflects a broader trend in urban spaces adapting to the evolving needs of their inhabitants.

While the exhibitions primarily highlight local talents, they sometimes draw high-profile Brazilian artists, significantly boosting the visibility of the event and attracting wider attention and media coverage. This enhanced profile, in turn, benefits the city's art scene and the numerous emerging artists who participate. For these artists, it's a valuable springboard, as gaining exposure here could potentially pave the way for further opportunities, including gallery showcases or international exhibitions.

The increased attention to these exhibitions within Cidade Matarazzo has contributed to a rising interest in São Paulo as a cultural travel destination. This arts-focused approach attracts art tourists looking for unique, immersive experiences that blend historical architecture with contemporary artistic expression. This type of cultural tourism, potentially driving economic benefit for the area, highlights the potential of adaptive reuse in urban environments. However, it remains to be seen if the art scene within these corridors can maintain this level of buzz and relevance over the coming years.