From Robb Report · Abby Montanez · · 1m 30s
Philippe Starck's Portuguese villa project launches
The French designer is building 22 private villas on Portugal's Alentejo coast, starting at $6 million each.
In brief
The French designer is building 22 private villas on Portugal's Alentejo coast, starting at $6 million each. Philippe Starck is creating a hybrid hotel and residential community in rural Portugal that prioritizes nature integration and long-term community over traditional luxury resort amenities. Originally reported…
Starck builds 22 villas in Portugal
French designer Philippe Starck is launching ASerra, a new hotel and residential development in Melides with 22 private villas starting at $6 million each.
Starck's decade-long love affair with Portugal
After living in Portugal for over a decade, Starck was captivated by Alentejo's untouched landscape. He describes it as one of the last places on earth with a sense of adventure.
“Alentejo was a shock, as it is one of the last places on earth that still has a sense of adventure.”
210 acres of cork oak forest
ASerra spans 210 acres about one hour south of Lisbon, featuring cork oak forest, rolling hills, and native vegetation. The development is designed to complement the existing landscape rather than detract from it.
Villas designed as ship cabins
Starck describes the villas as ship cabins emerging in nature, tucked into concrete shells and warmed by wood and vegetation. He wanted to create intimate nests where people connect with surrounding nature.
“Each villa is a personal and deeply comfortable home.”
Hotel services and shared amenities
The project includes a 25-suite boutique hotel, restaurant, spa, creative studio, cafe, pool, and sports courts. Villa owners get access to hotel services like concierge, housekeeping, and curated experiences.
Sales launch this month, opens 2028
The villas are positioned as long-term residences with optional hotel rental programs when owners are away. ASerra is expected to welcome residents and guests in 2028.
The headline
Philippe Starck is creating a hybrid hotel and residential community in rural Portugal that prioritizes nature integration and long-term community over traditional luxury resort amenities.
