Following an extensive renovation, Villa Argentina has reopened its doors as a revitalised hotel complex combining Dubrovnik’s architectural and artistic heritage with contemporary standards of luxury hospitality. Located close to the historic centre, with views of the city walls, Lokrum and the Adriatic Sea, Villa Argentina also offers a new option for accommodation, business meetings and incentive programmes in Dubrovnik.
The renovation encompassed more than 10,000 square metres of the complex, including the reconstruction of Villa Argentina, the main hotel building and Villa Orsula. Together with the other properties within the complex, it now offers 109 rooms and suites. The historic character of the location has been preserved, while the architecture, interiors, gardens and hotel facilities have been brought together to form a functional whole.
A Historic Complex in a New Form
Villa Argentina was built in 1920 as a private residence and was converted into a hotel in the mid-20th century. Over the decades, the complex gradually expanded with the addition of new properties, including Villa Orsula and Villa Glavić, and today its architectural ensemble consists of five buildings.
The reconstruction project was led by Croatian architectural studio 3LHD, which was responsible for both the architecture and interior design. The concept is based on connecting the historic villas, hotel building and outdoor spaces, with the new hotel building serving as the central hub of the complex. The gardens and terraces play a particularly important role, linking the different parts of the hotel and creating a continuous transition between the interiors and the Mediterranean landscape.
For event organisers, this diversity of spaces and settings is particularly significant – ranging from elegant hotel interiors to terraces, gardens and locations by the sea. The proximity of Dubrovnik’s historic centre also makes it easy to combine a hotel stay with programmes and activities in the city.
Design Combining Dubrovnik with Contemporary Luxury
The renovation placed particular emphasis on preserving the identity of the location. Throughout the interiors, stone, wood and ceramics are combined with textures and colours inspired by Dubrovnik’s architecture, the sea and Mediterranean gardens. Historic elements have not simply been preserved, but reinterpreted through contemporary design.
Internationally renowned Dimore Studio also collaborated on the textiles and decorative elements, adding further depth and character to the interiors. A special place within the complex has been given to the restored mosaic “Dubrovnik Variations” by academic painter Ivo Dulčić, dating from 1967. The mosaic has been returned to its original location and integrated into the new wellness and indoor pool area.
A New Address for Luxury Accommodation and Incentive Programmes
With its renovation, Villa Argentina also gains additional international visibility as a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, a collection bringing together more than 450 independent luxury hotels in over 80 countries. Membership positions the hotel within an international network of independent luxury properties with an emphasis on authenticity, individual character and high standards of service.
For organisers of business events and incentive programmes, particular value lies in the combination of several elements within a single location: luxury accommodation, a historic setting, Mediterranean gardens, views of Dubrovnik and the sea, and immediate proximity to the Old City. Such a concept may be particularly attractive for smaller and more exclusive business groups, incentive stays, VIP programmes and events seeking a strong sense of local character.
