JW Marriott Sao Paulo
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Location
São Paulo, Brazil
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Owner
Iron House
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Architect
HKS in partnership with Aflalo e Gasperini Architects
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Landscape Architect
Sergio Santana and Renata Tilli
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Photographer
Aaron Leitz
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Lighting Consultant
Foco Luz & Desenho
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Art Consultant
Juliana Asmir and Ivana Almeida with Almavera
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Spa Consultant
Bluespas Inc
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Sustainability
Green Key International Environmental Certificate & LEED ® New Construction Certification
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Team Members
Anne Wilkinson, NCIDQ, LEED, Martin Oestlund, Elaine Hwa Smith, NCIDQ
Bar Caju
Bar Caju is the social heart of JW Marriott São Paulo, a sculptural indoor-outdoor lounge that pairs bold geometry with relaxed elegance. Designed as an extension of the lobby and courtyard garden, its intimate yet dramatic setting invites connection and celebration.
A striking spiral stair set against a stacked stone wall anchors the space, complemented by a Burle Marx-inspired carpet over titanium black granite with radiating brass inlays. The curved rosewood and travertine bar, lit by vintage-style fixtures and a glowing bottle tower, is the focal point. Contemporary Brazilian pieces by Jader Almeida, Gustavo Bittencourt, and Claudia Morales Salles create conversational groupings with garden views, while brass screens and an upholstered banquette subtly define the dining area, adding to the lively, distinctly Paulista character.
A modern expression of Brazilian character and context.
BAMO’s design for JW Marriott São Paulo balances the drama of grand gestures with the intimacy of local nuance. The lobby’s soaring spiral stair, sculptural lighting, and glass‑orb canopy offer a theatrical welcome, grounded by the tactile warmth of rosewood, batik drapery, and granite floors.
Bar Caju sets a tone of conviviality, where live music and fresh cocktails meet bold materials and soft lighting, creating an experience that’s at once vibrant and reflective. Nearby, the spa and pool evoke calm, with Brazilian green marble, ipe wood, and serene water features connecting indoor and outdoor environments.
Guestrooms and suites reflect an elevated residential feeling. Materials like Jatoba wood, leather rugs, and slatted privacy walls create texture and warmth, while Brazilian art and furnishings bring intimate, bespoke moments. The Presidential Suite elevates this further, showcasing iconic Brazilian design and art in a bold, gallery-like setting.
Craft as Culture
Throughout the hotel, BAMO made deliberate, resourceful choices to root the design in Brazilian identity, blending creative inspiration with economic strategy. Instead of relying on imported or expected materials, the team embraced local craftsmanship and finishes to tell a richer, more authentic story.
In the guestrooms, Brazilian Jatobá hardwood replaced standard carpeting, an unexpected yet strategic choice that elevated both design and budget. Guest spaces feature standout artisanal pieces: fabric-upholstered walls by renowned weaver Nani Chinellato, the cocoon-like Esfera chair by Ricardo Fasanello, and the sculptural “Buffet Rock” console, a limited-edition piece custom-designed by Estudio Rika.
These locally sourced elements not only enhanced the guest experience, they celebrated São Paulo’s creative pulse, capturing its energy and artistry one handcrafted detail at a time.
