Hotel Mundial Reveals the Next Phase of its Requalification, Envisioned by Broadway Malyan

Since 1958, Hotel Mundial has been a landmark in Lisbon’s Baixa Pombalina. Today, it enters a new chapter in its story. The first phase of the renovation, recently completed, has reimagined the ground floor into a vibrant and sophisticated space.

The main entrance, reception, lobby and lounge areas have been redesigned to bring back the glamour of the 1960s, now reinterpreted with contemporary lines, abundant natural light, enhanced comfort and the integration of nature through biophilic design.

PHC – Hotels is a Portuguese hotel management group responsible for optimising the commercial synergies among its brands. The PHC Hotels portfolio includes the iconic Hotel Mundial, the Portugal Boutique Hotel, My Suite Lisbon Serviced Apartments – Príncipe Real, and more recently, the Convent Square Hotel Vignette Collection.

The spotlight also falls on the Maximinus Bar & Lounge, which has quickly become a meeting point for both guests and locals. The new lobby flows seamlessly, naturally guiding visitors towards two of the hotel’s most iconic spaces: the Varanda de Lisboa restaurant, with its sweeping city views and classic Portuguese cuisine, and the Rooftop Bar Mundial, a privileged setting for sunsets, cocktails and DJ nights, always against the backdrop of the Castle and the River Tagus.

Guest feedback has been unanimous: the new arrival experience – brighter, more elegant and more comfortable – is now one of the hotel’s strongest assets. A return to its 1960s DNA, but redesigned for the cosmopolitan traveller of the 21st century.

Already underway, the second phase of the renovation focuses on the first floor, with the hotel remaining fully operational throughout. Here, the Meeting & Events Hub is taking shape, with eight meeting rooms, all enjoying natural daylight and state-of-the-art technology, alongside the new 28 Restaurante & Terraço – conceived to impress with its elegance and versatility, seamlessly combining indoor and outdoor spaces for both social and corporate occasions.

And 2026 will bring further news: it marks the start of the refurbishment of part of the hotel’s rooms, which will set a new standard of sophistication. More elegant ambiences, enhanced comfort and a design dedicated to delivering a perfect sleep experience – all in the vibrant heart of Lisbon.

With this ambitious project, Lisbon gains a truly unique product: a historic hotel in a premium location, combining the capacity to host major events with an offering that blends gastronomy, hospitality and local culture.

The project bears the signature of architect Margarida Caldeira, Head of Broadway Malyan’s Lisbon studio, ensuring a harmonious balance between authenticity, modernity and sophistication.

Of the design evolution, Margarida Caldeira says;

“Reimagining Hotel Mundial has been about honouring its unique place in Lisbon’s story while shaping an experience that feels contemporary and timeless. 

From the lobby all the way through to the guest rooms, we wanted to create a guest experience that is surprising, sensory and deeply connected to its surroundings.  Every ceiling, surface and texture tells a story, drawing on Portuguese materials like Burel to bring warmth and craft, layering them with artwork that nods to the hotel’s 1960s heritage and its bold irreverent spirit. 

Our goal was to reflect the hotel’s enduring character through the creation of spaces that celebrate not just Portugal and Lisbon but the rhythm, people and history of the neighbourhood, creating an expressive and memorable destination that is completely unique.”

According to Miguel Andrade, PHC Hotels – Portuguese Hospitality Collection, Managing Director: 

“We are giving back to the city a hotel that is not just a place to stay, but a place to experience Lisbon in all its authenticity and energy. The feedback from our guests confirms this is the right path: combining tradition, comfort and innovation.”

With this vision, Hotel Mundial reaffirms its role as a stage for encounters, discoveries and trends, where Lisbon’s history continues to be written with elegance and a forward-looking spirit.

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About Sarah Stormonth-Darling

Sarah Stormonth-Darling is a creative copywriter and freelance content writer that works across a broad spectrum of industries. Her interest in sustainability, product design and interiors combined with her writing experience lends itself seamlessly to writing for Design Insider.
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