For the first time in 134 years, Reid’s Palace, a Belmond Hotel in Funchal, is stepping away from the classic natural Christmas tree that had long marked the festive season in the iconic Madeiran hotel. In 2025, the centrepiece of its seasonal décor is a textile artwork created by Portuguese artist Vanessa Barragão, internationally recognised for her sustainable work based on repurposing textile waste.
The new “tree”, displayed in the lobby throughout the Christmas period, features shades of red, gold and green, blending seamlessly with décor inspired by Madeiran traditions. Among the natural elements that complete the setting are the emblematic Manhãs-de-Páscoa, known worldwide as Christmas Strelitzias, flowers particularly cherished by the local population at this time of year.
In an interview with Essential, Vanessa Barragão explains that the Reid’s Palace commission came after she had already created a Christmas tree for Cartier the previous year. “It was made with recycled materials. I use ancestral techniques taught to us by our grandmothers or by our families. Christmas brings us back to that sense of family, of memories and relationships. When people look at this piece, it reminds them a little of their grandparents’ time,” she says.
The artist admits she had only seen photographs of previous years’ trees, but insists she did not feel the pressure of breaking with tradition: “This one has nothing to do with the earlier trees. It was always going to be something new for those who visit the hotel at this time of year. And I believe people value these ancient techniques. Here in Madeira, where the famous embroidery tradition exists, there is a special sensitivity to this kind of work.”
The creative process took place in the artist’s studio in Albufeira, where the piece was produced in three parts to make transport to Funchal easier. “Here it was just a matter of assembling and brushing it. The pieces must always be brushed,” Barragão explains, adding that the tree includes no lighting, a deliberate artistic choice.
With this piece, Reid’s Palace introduces a novel twist to the hotel’s Christmas tradition, bringing contemporary and sustainable textile art to the heart of the celebrations while maintaining a dialogue with Madeiran identity and culture.
