Transformative Architecture: This is How the Sheraton Asunción is Reinventing Itself

The Sheraton Asunción Hotel, one of the flagship hotels in Paraguay, is undergoing an ambitious renovation that began three months ago and represents one of the most significant architectural interventions in the recent history of the country's hotel sector. The goal is not only to update its infrastructure but also to redefine its role in the urban fabric, integrating it more actively into the social, business, and cultural life of Asunción.

The project, led by the international studio Gómez Platero Arquitectura y Urbanismo , includes a comprehensive renovation of strategic spaces in the building: the lobby, the main restaurant, the entrances to the ballroom, the hallways and rooms, as well as the rooftop that houses the pool, the bar, and the gym. In addition, an 80 m² expansion of the event rooms is planned, with the aim of increasing their capacity to host regional and international meetings. This renovation comes at a key moment, with Asunción positioning itself as the host of major events such as the 75th FIFA Ordinary Congress and the Junior Pan American Games.

Although the building's original structure is preserved, the architectural proposal redefines its identity through new materials and a more functional spatial layout. The design focuses on opening spaces to the urban environment, blurring the boundaries between public and private, in a commitment to permeable, contemporary, and welcoming architecture. This approach seeks to make the Sheraton not just a hotel, but a daily meeting point for the city's residents and visitors.

One of the most visible aspects of this transformation is found in the main entrance, which was redesigned with a large pergola that improves the thermal comfort of the entrance, provides shade, and simultaneously functions as a symbolic threshold between the city and the hotel interior. This new structure reinforces the visual and physical connection with the urban space.

Inside, the lobby was completely renovated. The traditional curved staircase was replaced with a lighter, more contemporary structure that articulates the triple height between the ground floor and the first level. A skylight floods the space with natural light, visually connecting the reception with the entrances to the ballroom and event services area. This decision not only improves lighting but also the visitor's spatial experience.

The new check-in counter incorporates individual stations with a semi-open design, designed for more personalized and streamlined service. In front of it, a decorative panel made with repurposed ñandutí pieces provides a strong local identity and pays homage to Paraguayan craftsmanship in a setting with a sober and modern aesthetic.

Just steps away, living areas for waiting and relaxing are located alongside coworking areas and multipurpose spaces. These areas respond to the changing demands of corporate travelers and locals, offering warm and functional environments for working, socializing, or simply relaxing.

The restaurant, located on the ground floor, also underwent a thorough renovation. Conceived as a flexible and dynamic space, it allows for various furniture configurations depending on the time of day. The buffet area was reorganized to improve flow and functionality, a private room was created for more intimate gatherings, and tables were added to the outdoor gallery, facing toward green areas. At night, the restaurant is transformed by a hidden bar that is activated during the evening, creating a more intimate and sophisticated atmosphere, with references to local design and warm lighting that invites you to linger.

On the rooftop, the gym was relocated to create an exclusive club lounge for members of the chain's loyalty program. The reorganization of the space optimizes views, allows for better circulation, and reconfigures the pool and bar areas to accommodate different types of events. Modular furniture and landscaping with native plants reinforce the relaxed and versatile nature of the space, designed for both daytime and nighttime experiences.

As for the guest rooms, the renovation does not include an increase in accommodation capacity, but rather a complete update of the flooring, furniture, and lighting. The design was designed with a simple and timeless aesthetic, prioritizing guest comfort through the use of acoustic materials, high-quality textiles, and warm wood details. The hallways, meanwhile, adopted a neutral color palette with flooring that maintains a visual consistency with the rest of the building.

The entire interior design is inspired by a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional Paraguayan elements. Fine materials such as stone, wood, and clay pottery, as well as native textiles, were used, integrating local art and custom-designed furniture to create a unique sensorial experience. The result is an elegant, sophisticated atmosphere deeply rooted in the country's cultural identity.

The renovation will continue until July 31, 2025, with a partial reopening planned for the end of April. This renovation positions the Sheraton Asunción among the leading names in South American hospitality, not only as a tourist and corporate destination, but also as a new hub for cultural, social, and gastronomic activity in the Paraguayan capital.

The renovation of the Sheraton Asunción faithfully reflects the architectural vision of Gómez Platero Arquitectura y Urbanismo, a Uruguay-based firm with international reach. Recognized for their human and urban approach, their projects are characterized by generating collective value, revitalizing existing structures, and integrating the natural with the built environment. With an interdisciplinary team of more than 250 professionals, the studio is committed to an architecture that not only beautifies, but also transforms: an architecture that generates connections, promotes well-being, and activates the city. This project in Asunción encapsulates that commitment, positioning the hotel as a new benchmark in the relationship between design, functionality, and the urban environment.