Villa Dubrovnik has reopened its doors following a multi-million Euro transformation by Brazilian design firm Studio Arthur Casas.
Originally built in 1961 as a residence for political elites, during construction its function was changed, and it was finished as an annex to Hotel Argentina. In the 1970s, with a few additions, Villa Dubrovnik was converted from an annex into a 30-room boutique hotel, and in 2003, it doubled in size. Today, the hotel’s distinctive architecture remains a striking contrast against the Adriatic, offering guests views of Lokrum Island and the Old Town.
Drawing inspiration from the rich history and cultural heritage of Dubrovnik, the design integrates colours and textures that reflect the city’s landscape such as stone, wood, hand-glazed terracotta tiles and ceramics. The colour palette includes white, sand and beige tones to mirror Dubrovnik’s stone walls, while warm shades of terracotta pay tribute to the city’s rooftops.
The scheme creates a synergy between the environment and cultural heritage, subtly incorporating traditional Croatian lace patterns and UNESCO-recognised dry-stone formations. Celebrating local craftsmanship, interiors feature polished wood, local stonework and bespoke furniture from Arthur Casas and Prostoria, such as the Dubrovnik lamp and custom sofas.
The hotel serves as a curated gallery, showcasing prominent Croatian artists such as painters Ivana Pegan and Dubravka Tulio, sculptor Ivo Dimnić and fashion designer Juraj Zigman, whose extravagant staff uniforms narrate a story of the hotel’s identity. This local talent is complemented by a showcase of international design, with classic and contemporary pieces from a roster of visionaries including Gio Ponti, Patricia Urquiola, Pierre Paulin and Eileen Gray, creating a rich, layered aesthetic throughout the property.
The hotel now presents 56 rooms, suites and residences, from serene guestrooms to signature suites. Each offers views of the Adriatic Sea, Lokrum Island or the UNESCO-listed Old Town, paying homage to the city’s heritage with furniture from international designers Gio Ponti and Paola Lenti that blends modernist minimalism with timeless elegance.
Villa Dubrovnik offers a secluded beach at the foot of the cliff, a spa and wellness centre – Villa Spa – complete with a fitness centre and indoor swimming pool, which features floor-to-ceiling windows and a sundeck with panoramic views of the Adriatic.
As part of its commitment to sustainability, the hotel has earned a Green Globe certification. This ethos is brought to life through “The Gardens of Dubrovnik” initiative, which transformed the property’s rooftops and outdoor spaces with indigenous Mediterranean flora, including the vibrant bougainvillea cascading from each balcony.
