You can always count on cutting-edge hotel designs from Mexico’s Grupo Habita. The group’s latest hotel transformed a historic building, retaining its elegant design and simultaneously supplying the property with a dash of raw industrial edginess. Downtown Mexico is a 17-suite property that opened this summer in the heart of Mexico City’s Centro Historico, one of Mexico City’s 16 districts and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is defined by its narrow cobblestone street and colonial landmarks, some of which date back to the 16th century. Guests will be well-positioned to explore some of Mexico City’s most popular historic sites.
With interior architecture by Cherem Serrano Arquitectos and furnishings by Paul Roco, the 17th-century Palacio de los Condes de Miravalle was transformed into the epitome of stripped-back bohemian chic. The palace retains it regal elegance by preserving original components such as the stone-forge staircase with intricate handrails, handmade cement tiles and graceful columned arches. This property is unique in the way it blends industrial style with historic, Baroque details. In direct contrast to the impressively ornate facade, the public spaces utilize organic elements of grey volcanic rock and exposed concrete walls.
The hotel’s breakfast patio and lobby is located in the central balcony of the Palace of the Countess of Miravalle. Here, guests can enjoy breakfast in a setting of 17th-century colonial architecture, with the focal point being the “The Holocaust,” a fresco by Manuel Rodriguez Lozano.
The hotel’s 17 suites range from stripped-down accommodations with original flooring tiles and rustic furnishings, to dramatic rooms utilizing light timber detailing and vaulted brick ceilings. Six suites have balconies that look out onto the cobbled streets, while the remaining 11 suites overlook the patio, which was also carefully preserved during the extensive renovation. Rooms also offer Wi-Fi access, iPod docks and flat-screen televisions.
Downtown Mexico’s minimalist chic terrace is constructed entirely from cement tiles and concrete, and covers the entire rooftop. The terrace also has a bar, Jacuzzi and swimming pool. The rooftop offer views over Mexico City’s historic old town, with its churches, Torre Latinoamericana and the Casino Espanol.
The Details
Downtown Mexicowww.grupohabita.mx
