Miguel Câncio Martins, born on May 15, 1965, in Lisbon, Portugal, is a distinguished architect and designer renowned for his innovative contributions to hospitality and public space design worldwide. At 15, he moved to Paris, where he completed his secondary education at the German School. Inspired by his architect father, Câncio Martins pursued architecture studies at the École Nationale Supérieure d'Architecture de Versailles and graduated from the Institut Supérieur d’Architecture Saint-Luc in Brussels in 1991.
Shortly after completing his studies, Câncio Martins established his own design studios, MCM Design in Paris and CM&P in Brussels, focusing on the creation of bars, restaurants, hotels, and retail spaces. His portfolio boasts over 60 restaurants, including iconic venues such as Buddha Bar, Barfly, and Man Ray in Paris; Pacha in Marrakech; and Man Ray in New York. His hotel projects are equally notable, featuring the Conrad Resort in the Algarve, Hotel Heritage in Lisbon, and Hotel de Sers in Paris.
In 1992, Câncio Martins won the first prize in the Ideas Competition for the Lisbon Universal Exposition, marking a significant milestone in his career. His work has been recognized with several accolades, including the Prémio Talento de Portugal in 2006 and the Ordem do Infante Dom Henrique in 2008.
In 2016, he expanded his operations by opening an office in Lisbon, furthering his engagement with projects in Portugal. One of his most personal and ambitious endeavors is the Quinta da Comporta – Wellness Boutique Resort, which opened in 2019. Located in Carvalhal, this resort reflects his deep connection to the region, where he spent his childhood vacations. The design emphasizes authenticity and sustainability, incorporating traditional architectural elements and eco-friendly practices.
Câncio Martins continues to influence the architectural landscape with ongoing projects such as the Mamula Resort in Montenegro and the Palácio Ludovice in Lisbon. His work is characterized by a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetic appeal, and cultural sensitivity, making him a prominent figure in contemporary architecture and design.
Original documents and copies, written and drawn documents, sketches, correspondence, photographic reproductions, cds.
PT/FAUL/ARQUIVO/MCM
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series: Architectural Projects
series: Notebooks, Sketchbooks, Address books and Artist’s books
series: Photographs, Negatives
