Senorita 1897
by Shivani Shah JayasinhaStudio SSJ
- Project
- Senorita 1897
- Architect
- Shivani Shah Jayasinha
- Firm
- Studio SSJ
- Location
- Goa, India
- Award category
- Conceptual Projects -> Interior Design
In one line
The 124-year-old Portuguese villa in Goa is reimagined as a luxury timeshare and boutique hotel, blending historic laterite walls, seashell windows, and handcrafted furniture with modern interventions like a mezzanine, spa, pool, and outdoor dining—creating a heritage-rich, intimate, and sustainable retreat that celebrates both tradition and contemporary comfort.
About the project
The project envisions the transformation of a 124-year-old Portuguese villa in Assanora, Goa, into a luxury timeshare property that doubles as a boutique hotel during the year. The clients’ aspiration is to retain the villa’s historic charm while introducing modern amenities, creating a space that feels both timeless and contemporary.
The villa, with its laterite stone structure, seashell windows, and handcrafted furniture, is remarkably well-preserved and provides a strong foundation for sensitive interventions. The design philosophy centers on heritage preservation combined with subtle modern enhancements. Key interventions include a mezzanine level to increase room capacity, a spa, a new pool, an expanded kitchen wing, and outdoor dining areas—designed to complement rather than compete with the villa’s existing character.
The concept celebrates local craft and historic materials, such as vibrant blue Azulejos tiles, colorful mosaic flooring, and limewashed walls, which honor the villa’s Portuguese legacy. Original furniture and architectural details are meticulously restored, creating a seamless dialogue between the past and the present. The new elements, including terraces, lounges, and modern facilities, are integrated carefully to maintain the villa’s intimate scale and serene atmosphere.
The design process prioritizes structural integrity and heritage conservation. Laterite walls are assessed for stability, roofs are reinforced, and soil conditions evaluated to support new construction. Materials are chosen for both authenticity and durability, with mosaic samples tested on-site to ensure visual harmony. Modern amenities are layered thoughtfully, ensuring that the villa retains its historical soul while offering luxurious comfort.
The result is a heritage property reimagined for contemporary use, where guests can enjoy the elegance of Portuguese architecture, the tactile richness of restored craftsmanship, and the convenience of modern hospitality. The villa becomes a sanctuary of history, culture, and relaxation—an upscale retreat that respects its past while embracing a sustainable and sophisticated future.
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