ABOUT
Architecture
RH+ Architects is an architecture practice based in Funchal, Madeira, founded in 2007 by architects Roberto Castro and Hugo Gil Jesus. We work across different scales and programmes, from housing to hospitality, retail, public facilities and building refurbishment, both in the Autonomous Region of Madeira and on selected projects beyond the island. Our practice is not based on predefined styles or forms, but on a method: listen, read the place and design with rigour.
The current team brings together more than ten architects, interior designers and coordinators, educated at Universidade Lusíada, the Faculty of Architecture of the University of Lisbon, the University of Porto and international schools. We believe in architecture that grows out of its context and improves the way a space is lived in, integrating light, topography and surroundings into every design decision. Projects such as Calheta Hills, Savoy Residence Monumentalis and Hotel Alto Lido illustrate this approach.
Every RH+ project follows six clearly defined stages: listening and diagnosis, reading the place, concept, development, planning and consents, and construction supervision. We work with clarity of design, attention to detail and an honest relationship with construction, developing buildable solutions and maintaining close coordination with engineering, safety and building services consultants.
We value durable materials and processes, considered choices and an aesthetic that does not depend on passing styles or trends. Construction supervision is close and continuous, ensuring that what is built faithfully matches what was designed. In the end, our work is measured by something very practical: if the intervention belongs in its surroundings, if the space works, if it ages well and if those who inhabit it feel a sense of belonging, then the objective has been achieved. This approach applies equally to a single-family home, a hotel or the refurbishment of a heritage building.
To turn ideas into real spaces, with architectural quality and a sense of place. We combine sensitivity, technical skill and responsibility to create projects that are buildable and lasting.
These principles guide every decision we make, from the first sketch to the final detail.
Listening, empathy and respect for the people who will live in the space.
Integration into the physical, urban and cultural context.
Clear solutions, well designed and well specified.
An approach to materials and crafts grounded in truth and identity.
Considered choices, with long-term logic.
Client, team and consultants working towards the same result.
Architecture that does not depend on the effect of the moment.
A well-run project saves time, doubt and overruns.
Our process is direct and transparent.
We understand needs, priorities, references and limits.
The project is born out of dialogue.
Urban context, landscape, light, constraints and regulations.
We organise the vision: design approach, massing, materials and atmosphere.
Plans, sections, elevations and coordination with engineering consultants.
Preparation and management of the approvals process with the competent authorities.
Site supervision to ensure that what is built matches what was designed.
Studied Architecture at Universidade Lusíada do Porto and graduated from Universidade Lusíada de Lisboa in 2004.
Began his professional career in 2004 at Massa Cinzenta in Funchal and worked in Dubai during 2008.
Began working with Hugo Gil Jesus in 2007 on a range of projects.
Studied Architecture at Universidade Lusíada in Lisbon, graduating in 2002.
Postgraduate degree in Real Estate Investment from ISCTE, University Institute of Lisbon, 2025
Began his professional career in 2002 at Arquitraço in Lisbon and joined Massa Cinzenta in Funchal in 2004.
Began working with Roberto Castro in 2007 on a range of projects.
Architects and designers with experience in design, interiors and construction coordination.
Integrated Master’s degree in Architecture from the Faculty of Architecture, University of Lisbon, 2011
Worked at Álvaro Siza Vieira’s practice, 2012
Worked at Allende Arquitectos in Madrid, 2013–2017
Worked at JRS Construções, 2019–2021
Degree in Architecture from the Faculty of Architecture, José María Vargas University, 2003
Worked in Venezuela at Rueda & Vera Arquitectura, 2002–2010, and Promotora RLPC, C.A., 2010–2016
Worked in Panama at Amador Arquitectos, 2016–2017, and El Patio Arquitectos, 2017–2020
Independent professional in architecture and photography in Venezuela, Panama and Portugal since 2006
Team member since 2023
Integrated Master’s degree in Architecture, specialising in Interiors and Building Refurbishment, from the Faculty of Architecture, University of Lisbon, 2015
Worked at FSimões Arquitectos, 2016–2017
Worked at Castello-Branco Arquitectos, 2018
Team member since 2019
Integrated Master’s degree in Architecture from the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 2023.
Team member since 2024
Integrated Master’s degree in Architecture from the Faculty of Architecture, University of Lisbon, 2016
Worked at Coromotto, 2017–2023
Ana Gabriela Pereira Sousa (Funchal, 2001)
Integrated Master’s degree in Architecture from the Faculty of Architecture, University of Porto, 2025
Professional internship for the Portuguese Architects’ Association, 2026–2027
Bachelor’s degree in Building Arts from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, Port Elizabeth, 2004
Master’s degree in Architecture from the University of Johannesburg, 2013
Worked at several architecture practices in England and South Africa, 2004–2014
Founded UC Studio in 2014
Co-founded Urban Signature Architects in 2018
Master’s degree in Architecture and Urbanism from Mackenzie Presbyterian University, São Paulo, 2024
Worked in Brazil at Ateliê Complementar Arquitetura, 2023–2024
Worked in Brazil at Santa Clara Poltronas, 2024–2025
Degree in Interior Design from the Lisbon School of Decorative Arts, 2012
Worked at Bashhesnef in Dubai, 2012
Worked at Rosarinho Gabriel Coisas da Terra in Sintra, 2013–2021
Independent interior design professional, 2021–2023
Together, we bring decades of combined experience and an unwavering dedication
to creating architecture that respects both people and place.