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FAQ

=> Concept + Accommodation

What is the ZERO Box Lodge concept?

ZERO Box Lodge is an urban and unconventional lodging concept that offers a new way to experience the city: fewer distractions, more experiences. Here, the boxes are designed as spaces for complete rest—dark, quiet, and minimalist—while life unfolds outside them, in the bars, restaurants, and common areas. It’s an invitation to disconnect from the obvious and immerse yourself in what truly matters.

What sets the ZERO Box Lodge concept apart from a traditional hotel?

Unlike traditional hotels, ZERO Box Lodge challenges the notion that the capsule is the centerpiece of the experience. The capsules have no windows, televisions, or superfluous amenities, focusing exclusively on comfort and sleep quality. In contrast, the common areas take center stage, fostering social interaction, sharing, and a connection to the city and local culture.

What is the ZERO Box Lodge in Coimbra?

The ZERO Box Lodge in Coimbra is an urban accommodation with an innovative concept: it occupies the space of a former garage, gas station, and car repair shop, and features “wooden box”-shaped capsules inspired by Japanese capsule hotels, adapted to the Western context with comfort and privacy.

Where is ZERO Box Lodge Coimbra located?

ZERO Box Lodge is located at Avenida Emídio Navarro, 45, 3000-150 Coimbra, in the city center and next to the Mondego River, Manuel Braga City Park, the River Docks, and the Santa Clara Bridge, offering easy access to the city’s main cultural attractions so you can explore Coimbra on foot.

=> Architectural Design

Who was involved in the architectural design of the Zero Box Lodge in Coimbra?

The architectural design of the Zero Box Lodge in Coimbra was led by architect Gonçalo Queirós Carvalho, with construction carried out by Civifran.

Who designed the building?

The architectural design of Zero Box Lodge Coimbra was led by architect Gonçalo Queirós Carvalho

Complementing the design and visual identity, Atelier d’Alves contributed to the branding and graphic elements, while photographer Kenton Tatcher was responsible for documenting the space.

The architectural design of Zero Box Lodge Coimbra is the result of the renovation of a historic building in the city, reinterpreted through a contemporary and innovative approach.

The renovation preserved the space’s original identity, respecting its history and structure, while introducing a disruptive accommodation concept centered on minimalist and functional capsules.
The balance between the past and the present is embraced as part of the experience, combining authenticity, comfort, and a new way of inhabiting the building.

What makes this place different from a traditional hotel?

In addition to the unique design of the rooms, the ZERO Box Lodge blends art, design, and culture—featuring various artistic expressions throughout the building and a relaxed atmosphere that invites guests to enjoy the urban experience and explore. Zero Box Lodge Coimbra

=> Services

How many capsules are in the Zero Box Lodge Coimbra?

The accommodation features forty four capsules, designed in an urban and contemporary style to ensure practical and comfortable stays.

What do the capsules look like?

The cabins are private wooden spaces with no windows facing the outside of the lodge, designed to ensure complete rest at any time of day. Each cabin features a double bed, a private bathroom, air conditioning, a wardrobe, and toiletries.

Do the stalls have windows or a TV?

No. The booths were designed without windows or televisions, specifically to provide a peaceful, restful environment, free from direct light or outside distractions.

Does the accommodation have an elevator and accessibility features for people with limited mobility?

The Zero Box Lodge has an elevator providing access to the Bixos restaurant, located on the first floor. There are access ramps throughout the building; however, due to the architectural layout of the space, there are also steps in several areas—notably leading to the capsules—which prevents full access for people with reduced mobility who use wheelchairs.

How do I make a reservation?

Reservations can be made directly on the official website or through major online booking platforms. For more information, please contact the team at coimbra@thezerohotels.com

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is available starting at 3:00 p.m., and check-out must be completed by midday.

What is included in the accommodation?

The accommodation includes free Wi-Fi, access to common areas, the Bixos bar and restaurant, as well as covered balconies offering stunning views of the Mondego River. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with our ZERO beer, served in an aluminum bottle designed and customized exclusively for the project—a truly tailor-made Zero Box Lodge experience. This bottle serves as a symbolic key that kicks off the experience, an invitation to think outside the box from the very first moment.
In each capsule, we provide a pair of badminton rackets so guests can enjoy the garden in front of Zero Box Lodge Coimbra and relax outdoors. The idea is simple: step out of the box, cross the street, and play, without any formalities. For those who wish to extend the experience, the rackets are also available for purchase and are properly labeled and registered in the capsule.

What does breakfast included?

Yes. Breakfast is available for an additional charge of nine euros per person and can be requested at the time of booking or during your stay.

Do you accept pets?

We only accept guide dogs accompanying visually impaired guests. With this exception, unfortunately, we cannot accommodate pets.

What is the noise policy?

Due to the nature of the boxes and our desire to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep, we ask guests to always remain quiet in the sleeping areas.

Is there a restaurant on site?

Yes, Bixos is located on the first floor of the ZERO Box Lodge, serving food and drinks to guests and visitors. We serve lunch on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and dinner every day of the week.

What kind of cuisine can I find at Bixos?

Bixos offers contemporary, creative, and laid-back cuisine. Our chef will cook live in the large oven. Highlights of the menu include “pinsas,” made with natural and plant-based ingredients, which contain less sugar, fat, and cholesterol than traditional pizzas. You can also enjoy a variety of appetizers, pastas, and desserts. The menu features seasonal ingredients and surprising combinations, served in a casual yet refined atmosphere, ideal for both a quiet dinner and a lively gathering with friends.

Does Bixos host group dinners and private events?

Yes. Bixos can accommodate group dinners, birthday parties, and private events, subject to prior reservation and availability. In addition to our existing menus, we can customize menus or create specific options based on the number of guests and the type of occasion. For more information, we recommend contacting our team directly to discuss the best options.

Is Bixos a suitable venue for corporate events?

Yes. Bixos is a versatile and dynamic venue, ideal for corporate events of various formats from networking gatherings and after-work events to business dinners, brand launches, or team celebrations.
The venue’s flexibility allows us to tailor the atmosphere to the event’s purpose, whether it’s something more informal and relaxed or a more structured experience with a set menu.
Additionally, as part of Zero Box Lodge Coimbra, we can combine your event with accommodations for guests, teams, or partners, creating a complete solution all in one place.
For customized proposals, we recommend contacting our team directly, who can present options tailored to the number of participants and the specific needs of your event.

Are there gluten-free or lactose-free options for breakfast?

Yes. We offer lactose-free milk and plant-based milk as alternatives. As for gluten-free options, we do not offer products certified as “gluten-free,” but we do have some naturally gluten-free foods available. However, please note that there may be traces of gluten due to cross-contamination, so we cannot guarantee the complete absence of gluten.

Does the accommodation feature work of art in its decor?

Yes. At Zero Box Lodge, art is part of the experience. Throughout the building, you’ll find various artistic expressions, from the iconic flying elephant created by Leonel Moura to the figures that occupy the ramps of the old garage—such as Andy Warhol—now reinterpreted as spaces for moving through the corridors and exploring.

One of the most striking elements are the “Bixos,” sculptural figures that inhabit the lodge and whose inspiration stems from Miguel Torga’s work “Bichos”. Just as in the book, these creatures represent human emotions, instincts, and behaviors, inviting guests to observe, interpret, and create their own understanding.

The Zero Box Lodge is thus a forward-thinking accommodation where architecture, art, literature, and entertainment coexist, transforming every stay into a unique cultural and sensory experience.

Is the accommodation suitable for families with children?

Yes, although Zero Box Lodge does not provide extra beds in the capsules, all guests are welcome. Our capsules are designed as compact units with fixed double beds, and there is neither the space nor the safety conditions to accommodate extra beds or cribs. For this reason, we are unable to provide separate beds for infants or additional guests, nor do we have cribs or single beds for a third person.

Does the accommodation have its own parking lot?

Zero Box Lodge Coimbra does not have on-site parking or its own parking spaces. However, there are parking options available nearby, such as public parking lots or street parking, which usually incur an additional cost.

=> Experiences

What points of interest are near Zero Box Lodge Coimbra?

The Zero Box Lodge is located near several points of interest, including the Monastery of Santa Cruz (three hundred and fifty meters on foot); the Paço das Escolas and the University of Coimbra (an eleven-minute walk, approximately three hundred and fifty meters); and the University of Coimbra Science Museum (1.2 kilometers on foot, approximately twenty minutes); Santa Cruz Park – Jardim da Sereia (1.3 kilometers, approximately twenty-one minutes on foot and nine minutes by car); Coimbra University Botanical Garden and Herbarium (five hundred and fifty meters).

Is the accommodation near any sports facilities?

Yes. The Coimbra City Stadium is about a twenty-five-minutes walk from Zero Box Lodge Coimbra. In addition, we are very close to the Choupa National Forest, one of the city’s main green spaces, ideal for walking, running, and other outdoor activities. The forest is located about a ten- to fifteen-minute walk from the accommodation, offering nature trails along the river, perfect for those who want to maintain their exercise routine during their stay.

What is the access to accommodation and transport like?

The Zero Box Lodge Coimbra is located next to the Parque bus stop, offering good access to public transportation and easy mobility within the city.
As for airports, Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto) is approximately 120 kilometers away, and Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon) is approximately 200 kilometers away by car.
From Porto or Lisbon, Coimbra is easily accessible by road and rail.

Learn more about the city of Coimbra

You don’t just visit Coimbra. You live it. Amid legends, endless staircases, and hidden Roman ruins, there’s always something to discover—both within and beyond the ordinary.

Convento de Santa Clara-a-Nova

Legend has it that Saint Isabel, the patron saint of Coimbra, turned bread into roses when her husband caught her feeding the poor. She is buried in the Convent of Santa Clara-a-Nova, and it is said that her coffin still smells of roses.
It’s about a twenty-minute walk, so we suggest you make a reservation well in advance. It’s worth taking your time to climb up and enjoy the panoramic view of Coimbra and the Mondego River. Combine your visit with a stop at the Convent of Santa Clara-a-Velha, closer to the riverbank, to complete the historical narrative of Queen Saint Isabel.

Church of Santa Cruz

Because the first two kings of Portugal, Afonso Henriques and Sancho I, are buried here, Santa Cruz has been designated a National Pantheon. It is an essential part of Portuguese history and a must-see in the historic center. Be sure to also visit the Manga Cloister. It’s perfect to include in a walking tour of Coimbra’s downtown area, just a ten-minute walk from your accommodation.

Coimbra University Botanical Garden

A 13-hectare living natural museum that impresses with its diversity of species and the tranquility of its walking paths. Perfect for peaceful mornings. It pairs well with a visit to the University along the same route. We recommend booking in advance. It is just a twenty-minute walk from the accommodation.

University of Coimbra

The oldest university in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers spectacular views of the city and the Mondego River. The walls covered in hand-painted tiles are memorable, but none of this will help you climb the 125 steps of the staircase. If you plan to explore the Paço das Escolas, the Joanina Library, and the Chapel of São Miguel, we suggest making a reservation. The climb is strenuous; we recommend comfortable shoes. It is just fifteen minutes from Zero Box Lodge.

Joanina Library

Considered one of the most spectacular libraries in the world. Amid gilded wood carvings and century-old bookshelves, a colony of bats lives there, protecting the books by eliminating insects. Visits are scheduled at specific times. We recommend booking in advance online, especially during peak season.

Machado de Castro National Museum

Fifteen minutes from the accommodation, in the underground galleries, lies the cryptoporticus of Aeminium, a Roman structure that bears witness to the city’s presence in the Roman Empire.

Penedo da Saudade

Perfect for late afternoon, a twenty-five-minute walk. Take some time to read the inscriptions on the academic headstones and enjoy the view of the city. The headstones scattered throughout the garden mark class reunions—ten, twenty, or forty years after graduation. Quotes, poems, and tributes symbolize the “burial” of degrees and the eternal connection to the city.

=> What’s there to see in the surrounding area?

Conímbriga and Mealhada

Southwest of Coimbra lies Conímbriga, one of Portugal’s most impressive archaeological sites, with origins dating back to the Celtic era and notable Roman remains. Set aside half a day. Just a 20-minute drive from Zero Box Lodge, explore the ruins and the archaeological museum. It’s ideal to combine this with lunch in Mealhada.
Mealhada is a must-visit stop to sample the iconic Leitão à Bairrada.

=> What are the city’s main events?

Queima das Fitas

This event usually takes place in May at various locations throughout the city, particularly at Parque da Canção. It is one of the largest student festivals in the country.

Coimbra City Festivals

Held in July, these festivals include concerts, cultural events, and religious celebrations in honor of Queen Saint Isabel.

Manifesta

A multidisciplinary festival that brings together art, music, and contemporary culture. “Manifesta 17 will take place in Coimbra, Portugal, in 2028, marking the first time the European Nomadic Biennial has been held in the country. In collaboration with the Anozero Contemporary Art Biennial, the event focuses on urban regeneration, culture, and connections between people” (Público, September 2025).

(Specific dates may vary from year to year—we recommend checking the official schedule before your visit.)

=> About us

Who are we?

“Buildings, like people, have a life of their own. But unlike people, buildings can live almost forever. After they are born, live, and are lived in, they can find a new life—a new truth, hidden within the possibilities and the eloquence of time. We are mindful of what buildings feel. We believe in the foundations of their stories, in the architecture of their emotions, in the dreams held by the walls that have heard them.

We knock on the door of their desires to listen to everything they have to tell us. What each of them has planned for us. We see what they once were, we hear what they tell us, and we give them a new sense of the future, aligned with their past. In the foundations of their soul, each building is reborn, free and different. We give them a new life and a new voice. We speak to the buildings and they speak for us, telling the world of the passion we feel for what we do. For them, for the cities, and through them, for the people.”

Zero Box Lodge is an unconventional urban lodging concept designed for those who value unique, authentic experiences without excess. We focus on the essentials, smart comfort, and an uncomplicated approach to hospitality, where design, architecture, and the city experience come together naturally.

Each property is born from the renovation of historic buildings, respecting their original identity and reinterpreting it into a contemporary, functional, and provocative concept. Here, less is more, and every detail is designed so that the experience is lived with freedom, curiosity, and personality.

In addition to Zero Box Lodge Coimbra, the concept also extends to Zero Box Lodge Porto, reinforcing the brand’s presence in two iconic cities, with the same philosophy and zero-frills attitude.

Notable projects include:

Zero Box Lodge Coimbra, where the model evolves into a unique adaptation, maintaining its disruptive DNA while incorporating local architectural elements.

Zero Box Lodge Porto, which adapts the “capsule hotel” concept to the Portuguese context, featuring minimalist spaces and a bold approach to urban accommodation.

• At Moagem Industrial Lodge, located in Viana do Alentejo, we bring this same philosophy of design and authenticity, but with our own signature: elements of iron, wood, and stone; fire as a central element; an emphasis on the Alentejo landscape; and a contemporary industrial aesthetic.

 • Pensão Amor – Madam’s Lodge, an integral part of Pensão Amor, offers a completely different experience: an immersion in 1960s Lisbon, set in a former brothel brimming with secrets, stories, and characters frozen in time. Each room tells a story—recreating worlds of fantasy and memory, with personal objects, vintage documents, and decor that sparks the imagination. There are several themed collections such as “Secret Rooms,” “Lisbon Fantasies,” “Madame’s Treasures,” “Special Corners,” and “Pearls of the World,” all with distinct characteristics in terms of capacity, decor, and atmosphere.

We are, therefore, a network with many faces; each project has its own identity, but all share a commitment to creating memorable experiences.

What People Are Saying About Us

The ZERO Box Lodge experience has been praised by both the press and our guests. Find out what the media has been saying about the group at thezerohotels.com/press and read below some honest opinions and reviews from guests and customers at Bixos, who share their experiences in their own words.

What do our guests and customers say?

“Fuimos 2 personas a pasar una sola noche, y nos ha encantado! Elegimos este hotel por probar la experiencia de una habitación de madera sin ventanas, era curioso. Nos gustó mucho, la temperatura se ajustaba a la perfección, estaba todo limpio. Lo mejor, el personal, nos atendió la mayor parte del tiempo Artur, un chico joven, ha sido muy amable, cercano y educado, nos ayudó en todo lo que necesitábamos, y siempre con una sonrisa (muy importante para nosotros). La ubicación es perfecta, está a 2 minutos a pie del centro histórico, bien conectado a pie y en bolt de las estaciones de autobuses. El restaurante Bixos muy bien! No tuvimos el placer de cenar allí porque ya habíamos reservado en otro sitio, pero tomamos unos cocktails y 10/10 la calidad y el trato por parte del personal. La decoración muy mona. Lo que más nos gustó? Las cervezas que nos dieron como bienvenida jajaja! Un puntazo!!”
//

(translated to English)

“There were just the two of us staying for one night, and we loved it! We chose this hotel to try out a windowless wooden room—it sounded intriguing. We really enjoyed it; the temperature was perfect, and everything was clean. The best part was the staff, who took care of us most of the time. Artur, a young man, was very friendly, approachable, and polite; he helped us with everything we needed and always with a smile (which was very important to us). The location is perfect—it’s a 2-minute walk from the historic center and easily accessible on foot or via Bolt from the bus stations. The Bixos restaurant is really good! We didn’t get to have dinner there because we’d already made a reservation elsewhere, but we had some cocktails, and the quality and service were 10/10. The decor is really cute. What did we like best? The beers they offered us as a welcome drink, hahaha! A definite plus!!”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Vacation ❘ Couple
(translated to English)

“A really nice hotel that had everything I needed. It’s quiet, the air conditioning works great, and the room is dark. Great for getting a good night’s sleep. It’s located in a great area, with easy access to all parts of the city. The staff is incredible—very friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. Francisca was fantastic. Definitely one of the nicest people I met during my entire trip. She helped me learn a lot while I was here and gave me great recommendations.”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Vacation ❘ Solo

“Creo que hay que ser realistas y sinceros: se trata de un nuevo concepto de hotel con habitaciones exclusivamente para dormir y ducharse. Totalmente forradas en madera sin ventanas al exterior, lo cual no significa que la ventilación no exista (extractores nada ruidosos)Correctamente equipadas,climatizadas e insonorizadas. Un desayuno más que correcto, con una ubicación muy buena. Si a todo esto le pones un más que excelente precio.pues 5 estrellas”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Vacation ❘ Solo

(translated to English)

“What a fun experience! We were warmly welcomed by the hotel’s enthusiastic staff, who gave us great recommendations for a short stay in Coimbra and two cold beers. The rooms were small but functional, modern, and well-designed. The bathroom was larger than one might expect. The air conditioning was great, the bed was comfortable, and I liked the mood lighting under the bed.
The hotel lobby is also very beautiful: with patterned rugs and good lighting.
The location was perfect: just a 5-minute walk from one of Coimbra’s main streets.
Breakfast was also great: pancakes, boiled eggs, pan con tomate… in a fun and well-decorated space.
Perfect for a short stay in this beautiful and somewhat magical city. I say short stay because, obviously, there are no windows in the box, and I prefer a bit of fresh air in my hotel room (but I knew beforehand that wouldn’t be possible).”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Vacation ❘ Couple

“Os edifícios, como as pessoas, têm uma vida. Mas, ao contrário das pessoas, os edifícios podem viver para quase sempre. Depois de nascerem, viverem e serem vividos, podem encontrar uma vida nova. Uma nova verdade, escondida pelas possibilidades e pela eloquência do tempo. Somos cuidadosos com o que os edifícios sentem. Acreditamos nas fundações das suas histórias, na arquitetura das suas emoções, nos sonhos guardados pelas paredes que os ouviram.

Batemos à porta das suas vontades para escutarmos tudo o que têm para nos dizer. O que cada um deles tem planeado para nós. Sabemos ver o que eles foram, ouvimos o que nos dizem, e damos-lhes um novo sentido de futuro, alinhado com o seu passado. Nos alicerces da sua alma, cada edifício renasce livre e diferente. Damos-lhes uma nova vida e uma nova voz. Falamos com os edifícios e eles falam por nós, e dizem ao mundo a paixão que sentimos pelo que fazemos. Por eles, pelas cidades e através deles pelas pessoas.”

O Zero Box Lodge é um conceito hoteleiro urbano e irreverente, pensado para quem valoriza experiências diferentes, autênticas e sem excessos. Apostamos no essencial, no conforto inteligente e numa abordagem descomplicada à hotelaria, onde o design, a arquitetura e a vivência da cidade se cruzam de forma natural.

Cada unidade nasce da reabilitação de edifícios com história, respeitando a sua identidade original e reinterpretando-a num conceito contemporâneo, funcional e provocador. Aqui, menos é mais e cada detalhe é pensado para que a experiência seja vivida com liberdade, curiosidade e personalidade.

Além do Zero Box Lodge Coimbra, o conceito estende-se também ao Zero Box Lodge Porto, reforçando a presença da marca em duas cidades icónicas, com a mesma filosofia e atitude zero.

Entre os projetos, destacam-se:

• Zero Box Lodge Coimbra, onde o modelo evolui para uma adaptação singular, mantendo o ADN disruptivo e incorporando elementos arquitetónicos locais.

• Zero Box Lodge Porto, que adapta o conceito de “capsule hotel” ao contexto português, com espaços minimalistas e uma abordagem ousada ao alojamento urbano.

• No Moagem, localizado em Viana do Alentejo, trazemos esta mesma filosofia de design e autenticidade, mas com uma assinatura própria: os elementos ferro, madeira e pedra, o fogo como elemento central, a valorização da paisagem alentejana e uma estética industrial contemporânea.

• Pensão Amor – Madam’s Lodge O Madam’s Lodge, parte integrante da Pensão Amor, propõe uma experiência totalmente diferente, uma imersão de Lisboa dos anos 60, num antigo bordel cheio de segredos, histórias e personagens guardadas no tempo. Cada quarto é uma narrativa — recria ambientes de fantasia e memória, com objetos pessoais, documentos antigos, e decoração que desperta a imaginação. Há diversas coleções temáticas como “Quartos Secretos”, “Fantasias de Lisboa”, “Tesouros da Madame”, “Esquinas Especiais” e “Pérolas do Mundo”, todas com características distintas de capacidade, decoração e atmosfera.

Somos, portanto, uma rede com diferentes faces, cada projeto tem identidade própria, mas todos partilham a criação de experiências memoráveis.

What does the press say?

(- Host Unsual) – Unique hotels in Coimbra

Experience Portugal in a whole new way, with a stay in a Japanese-style ‘capsule hotel’ taken to innovative levels of comfort and luxury.

Celebrating disruptive design and extreme creativity, ZERO Box Lodge is a unique accommodation concept, inspired by Japanese-style ‘capsule hotels.’

The second of the company’s iconic Portuguese locations (Porto being the first), ZERO Box Lodge Coimbra occupies a former garage, originally built in the 1930s and beautifully situated on the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Mondego river front.

With the original architecture carefully preserved, the characterful space has been transformed into an innovative urban retreat, complete with a laid-back restaurant and bar.

Ground-floor rooms consist of simple, windowless wooden boxes that encourage true rest and relaxation. Fully air-conditioned, your room is furnished with a comfy linen-dressed bed and plump pillows.  You’ll also have a private bathroom, gainfully stocked with towels and toiletries.

Fully refreshed and revived, you’re free to enjoy shimmering river views from the buzzing first-floor social space, cocktail in hand!”



(- Archello)Unique architectural design 

“Zero Box Lodge is a unique lodging concept where the rooms are wooden pods designed to provide comfort and privacy for guests.

This model draws inspiration from the Japanese concept of ‘capsule hotels,’ which, through a more Western interpretation, have been transformed into larger-scale units capable of accommodating two people and featuring private bathrooms.

The building was constructed in 1937 and features a classic, understated exterior. Until recently, it housed a garage and car dealership, as well as a gas station.

It is located in the center of Coimbra, across from the city park and the Mondego River, within a UNESCO-protected area. Due to its location, it plays a significant role in the city’s urban landscape. The design concept for this building (a hotel featuring windowless wooden pods) fit seamlessly with the structure of the building, which has openings on only one of its facades at ground level.

The space is divided into three parts:

  1. The Bedroom

Since the ground floor has limited exposure to the exterior, we chose to install a bedroom here that opens onto a large interior hall. This bedroom is divided into three levels, where several bathrooms were built that subsequently adjoin each of the capsules.

To evoke the recent history of this space as a garage, we chose to reveal a rawer aesthetic here, featuring exposed structural elements of iron and concrete. In contrast, the capsules take on a softer appearance, with wood cladding their entire interior and exterior.

Because the dormitory is located on the ground floor, it creates an interesting interaction with the people passing by outside.

  1. The Restaurant (social space)

A social space housing a bar and restaurant has been set up on the first floor. Here, guests can enjoy a prime view of the river and the city.

This area is essentially an open-concept space designed to create various atmospheres without the need for partitioning. To achieve this, features such as the interior and exterior balconies, the central structure of the bar and restaurant, and the stage and artwork in front of it were used to create distinct atmospheres.

  1. Technical Building

To house the support spaces necessary for the operation of the accommodation unit, a new building was constructed at the rear of the main building. A vertical circulation system was also installed here, providing access to the various floors of the main building.

The goal was to preserve the original character of this building while introducing new architectural elements designed to offer users a bold new perspective and a more engaging experience.”

 

 

“Articles & Highlights” about Coimbra


Coimbra has been gaining increasing recognition as a unique tourist and cultural destination in Portugal, often described as “the Portuguese city you’ve probably never heard of.”
The New York Times – one of the must-see destinations in 2025.

Coimbra was included by The New York Times in its annual list of “52 Places to Visit in 2025,” ranking 11th—and is the only Portuguese city on the list. The newspaper describes the city as an ideal place to escape the crowds of Lisbon and Porto, a “bastion of tradition” that is gaining a new vibe with contemporary spaces and unique experiences.

The pretty Portuguese city you’ve probably never heard of: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/advice/an-insiders-guide-to-the-prettiest-little-portuguese-city-y/

 

“Os edifícios, como as pessoas, têm uma vida. Mas, ao contrário das pessoas, os edifícios podem viver para quase sempre. Depois de nascerem, viverem e serem vividos, podem encontrar uma vida nova. Uma nova verdade, escondida pelas possibilidades e pela eloquência do tempo. Somos cuidadosos com o que os edifícios sentem. Acreditamos nas fundações das suas histórias, na arquitetura das suas emoções, nos sonhos guardados pelas paredes que os ouviram.

Batemos à porta das suas vontades para escutarmos tudo o que têm para nos dizer. O que cada um deles tem planeado para nós. Sabemos ver o que eles foram, ouvimos o que nos dizem, e damos-lhes um novo sentido de futuro, alinhado com o seu passado. Nos alicerces da sua alma, cada edifício renasce livre e diferente. Damos-lhes uma nova vida e uma nova voz. Falamos com os edifícios e eles falam por nós, e dizem ao mundo a paixão que sentimos pelo que fazemos. Por eles, pelas cidades e através deles pelas pessoas.”

O Zero Box Lodge é um conceito hoteleiro urbano e irreverente, pensado para quem valoriza experiências diferentes, autênticas e sem excessos. Apostamos no essencial, no conforto inteligente e numa abordagem descomplicada à hotelaria, onde o design, a arquitetura e a vivência da cidade se cruzam de forma natural.

Cada unidade nasce da reabilitação de edifícios com história, respeitando a sua identidade original e reinterpretando-a num conceito contemporâneo, funcional e provocador. Aqui, menos é mais e cada detalhe é pensado para que a experiência seja vivida com liberdade, curiosidade e personalidade.

Além do Zero Box Lodge Coimbra, o conceito estende-se também ao Zero Box Lodge Porto, reforçando a presença da marca em duas cidades icónicas, com a mesma filosofia e atitude zero.

Entre os projetos, destacam-se:

• Zero Box Lodge Coimbra, onde o modelo evolui para uma adaptação singular, mantendo o ADN disruptivo e incorporando elementos arquitetónicos locais.

• Zero Box Lodge Porto, que adapta o conceito de “capsule hotel” ao contexto português, com espaços minimalistas e uma abordagem ousada ao alojamento urbano.

• No Moagem, localizado em Viana do Alentejo, trazemos esta mesma filosofia de design e autenticidade, mas com uma assinatura própria: os elementos ferro, madeira e pedra, o fogo como elemento central, a valorização da paisagem alentejana e uma estética industrial contemporânea.

• Pensão Amor – Madam’s Lodge O Madam’s Lodge, parte integrante da Pensão Amor, propõe uma experiência totalmente diferente, uma imersão de Lisboa dos anos 60, num antigo bordel cheio de segredos, histórias e personagens guardadas no tempo. Cada quarto é uma narrativa — recria ambientes de fantasia e memória, com objetos pessoais, documentos antigos, e decoração que desperta a imaginação. Há diversas coleções temáticas como “Quartos Secretos”, “Fantasias de Lisboa”, “Tesouros da Madame”, “Esquinas Especiais” e “Pérolas do Mundo”, todas com características distintas de capacidade, decoração e atmosfera.

Somos, portanto, uma rede com diferentes faces, cada projeto tem identidade própria, mas todos partilham a criação de experiências memoráveis.