The Carvalhal Palace, a masterpiece of romantic architecture, stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of historical elegance and modern functionality. Situated on the outskirts of Estoi, near the ancient Roman villa of Milreu, the palace is a striking example of architectural ingenuity. The original single-storey structure, with its twenty-three rooms, forms the backdrop to Jardim do Carrascal, Portugal’s most complete romantic garden.

Architect Gonçalo Byrne, commissioned by the Pestana Group in 2003, envisioned a seamless integration of the old and new. His design philosophy centered on respecting the historical essence while accommodating modern needs. The palace’s location on a steep northeast slope was ingeniously utilized to create an illusion of grandeur. Byrne extended the garden’s level, crafting two terraces that cleverly conceal the expansion, which nearly quadrupled the original 400 square meters to include sixty-four rooms.

Byrne’s approach was to let the landscape dictate the design, ensuring the new structures harmonized with the natural surroundings. The retaining walls of the terraces not only support the garden but also form the façade of the new rooms, blending them into the landscape. This design choice creates a unique spatial experience, where the building appears to emerge organically from the earth.

The materials used in the expansion were carefully selected to complement the existing structure, maintaining a visual continuity that respects the palace’s romantic roots. Byrne’s vision was to create a space that offers guests a serene retreat, where the architecture enhances the natural beauty of the setting. His work on The Carvalhal Palace exemplifies a thoughtful balance between preservation and innovation, making it a significant landmark in contemporary Portuguese architecture.