AccorHotels’ First JO&JOE Outside of Europe to Open in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

AccorHotels has chosen a property at the foot of the Corcovado mountain and the Cristo Redentor, the architectural complex of “Largo do Botícario”, in the neighborhood of Cosme Velho, Rio de Janeiro, to become the first JO&JOE to open outside of Europe.

“AccorHotels has been investing in Brazil for 40 years, and the purchase of this architectural landmark only strengthens our commitment to the country’s growth. We are betting on this location and will transform it into an incredible place to attract tourists and locals starting in 2020, when it should open,” said Patrick Mendes, CEO AccorHotels.

The JO&JOE brand combines the best of private accommodation options such as hostels and hotels, in a totally reinvented and disruptive experience in terms of service, catering and design approach.

The large bar at the heart of the Open House will be one of the attractions, open until 2am, with beer and cachaça specialties, and a capacity of up to 300 people. A juice bar is also planned for those seeking a healthier option.

“This lifestyle destination aims to become and remain one of the main hotspots in the city both for travelers and locals”, said François Leclerc, VP Brands & Operations JO&JOE.

A cultural and artistic space is also part of the project, as well as an area for celebrations and events. Minibuses will transport guests to the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, as well as surfing spots such as Grumari, Joatinga and Prainha. Shuttle buses will also be provided to facilitate transfers between this new JO&JOE property and Galeão and Santos Dumont airports.

The concept of the project was created jointly by the company Lakasa Development Empreendimentos Ltda and the Ernani Freire & Associados Architect firm, led by Mr. Ernani himself, founder of the firm and Professor of Architecture and Urbanism at PUC Rio, and a professional with extensive experience in the field of conservation and the restoration of buildings of historical and architectural interest.

“This is a unique opportunity for the complete regeneration of the architectural complex, a project of great importance for the city of Rio de Janeiro and which arouses the interest of both locals and tourists –demonstrating that it’s possible to establish connections without losing the characteristics and identity of each property. The regeneration of the complex involves the spatial and technological updating of the environments, adapting them to the new uses of a primarily young public. The theme of this regeneration is to expand naturally into the surroundings, involving other points of interest in the neighborhood – the “positive metastasis” of the Catalan architect Oriol Bohigas,” said Mr. Ernani.

The name “Largo do Boticário” is derived from Joaquim Luís da Silva Souto, a pharmacist who had his dispensary in the street, “Direita”. The street is now called “Primeiro de Março”, in the center of Rio. The pharmacist was very successful and his clients included the royal family of Portugal. He bought land in the Cosme Velho region and moved to “Largo do Boticário” in 1831. In 1846 Marshal Joaquim Alberto de Souza Silveira, attendant of the court and godfather of Machado de Assis (Brazilian famous writer), lived there.

AccorHotels bought the six houses that make up the architectural complex of “Largo do Boticário”, in Cosme Velho, in the south of Rio de Janeiro for R$20 million, and will invest an additional R$30 million in renovations and furnishings. The company has committed to carry out the regeneration and complete restoration of the complex, which was heritage-listed by the “State Institute of Cultural Patrimony” (Inepac) in 1987, in line with the original design.

AccorHotels will also produce and publish a book that tells the story of “Largo do Botícario” and shows the development of the architectural restoration work carried out under the supervision of Inepac. The surrounding native rainforest, which is also heritage listed, will also be preserved.

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