SALT AIR AND CLEAN LINES: QUIET LUXURY AT JANEIRO HOTEL
Resting on the stunning Leblon beach, JANEIRO Hotel blends beautifully minimal design, breathtaking nature, and a newly forming idea of luxury, to create one of Brazil’s most significant stays. In fact, since opening in 2018, the hotel has built a strong reputation with international recognition and a clear goal to offer a more relaxed, experience-driven alternative to traditional high-end hospitality.
all images courtesy of JANEIRO
With 51 rooms, the property remains relatively intimate, which contributes to a sense of calm that can be rare in this part of the city. The design, conceived by Oskar Metsavaht, elevates natural materials and Brazilian craftsmanship, with wood and recycled elements throughout, creating a consistent visual language that feels incredibly warm and grounding. The architecture avoids excess, focusing instead on light, openness, and the constant presence of the ocean.
The rooms follow the same openness. Large windows frame the sea, making the view the central feature rather than an addition. Interiors are very carefully considered and studied, with neutral tones and textures that reflect the surrounding landscape. Every element works to create an extremely unique atmosphere of relaxation as guests blend comfortably with the environment.
Public areas encourage movement and exploration around the building. On the ground floor, Cedilha Bar & Restaurant offers a more casual, all-day bistro vibe, while on the second floor, JANEIRO Restaurant focuses on lighter, seafood-driven cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Both spaces feel relaxed, but intentional. Meanwhile, the hotel’s social life finds expression in its rooftop areas. The infinity pool on the 18th floor is one of its most iconic features, with views that stretch across the coastline.
The hotel also offers a range of experiences from beach service and bicycles to curated cultural programming and boat trips, which reinforce its positioning as more than just a place to stay. There’s also a small spa, which, while limited in scale, provides a useful addition for guests looking for basic treatments.
Sustainability is, commendably, another visible focus, with initiatives around improving energy efficiency, partnerships with local producers, and environmental measures; all efforts that here feel genuinely integrated into the project and not just performative.
Overall, JANEIRO Hotel stands out in its clarity of vision, unique design identity, and its ability to capture a quieter and more balanced version of luxury.
