Reform and expansion of the Portocobo Hotel in Santa Cruz | Díaz y Díaz Arquitectos

The existing building had an open plan layout sharing the site with two surface parking lots, a large terrace that could be covered, green areas and an outdoor pool with a sun deck. The interior remodel was aimed at better accommodating the existing functions as well as some new ones. The most important objective was to achieve full transparency on the ground floor, since in its original state the reception area blocked views of the sea. To this end, the ground floor was redesigned allowing the enjoyment of the views from the moment one enters the building. The remodel served to organize the interior layout: The rooms were reconfigured and adapted to new regulations. New areas dedicated to businesses such as private dinning rooms, classrooms and meet- ing rooms were created. The restaurant and bar were improved and the kitchen, storage areas and freezer were upgraded. Also, a removable canopy was designed to create a new banquet area for 500 guests. Finally, a spa specializing in thalassotherapy was located on the basement. It includes salt-water pools and spas, massage rooms, saunas, steam rooms and specialized massage rooms.