Ambrosi Etchegaray: Círculo Mexicano
Nestled in downtown Mexico City, where pre-Hispanic ruins coexist with the National Palace and the first cathedral in the Americas, Grupo Habita unveils its twelfth hospitality venture—a lavish boutique hotel crafted by Ambrosi | Etchegaray, a prominent art and architecture studio. This architectural endeavor reinterprets the historic building, transforming the ground floor into a vibrant marketplace and the second and third floors into a luxurious hotel featuring twenty-five rooms and suites. The design studio thoughtfully uncovers the building's core by stripping back the interiors, creating a minimalist ambiance that fosters a personal connection for all guests and visitors.
Deeply rooted in the community, the hotel’s interior spaces highlight the finest offerings from the city and local artistry. As the home of Mexico's esteemed photographer Manuel Álvarez Bravo, his works are prominently displayed throughout the hotel’s rooms and public areas. Local craftsmanship is also reflected in the carefully curated furniture, including exquisite handmade pieces from the Mexico City-based design studio La Metropolitana, many influenced by the Shaker aesthetic. Oaxacan textiles and woven palm elements are prevalent across the property, celebrating the local design heritage.
The hotel's layout is inspired by the ongoing evolution of many historic elite residences in Mexico. Once vast homes and buildings were often divided into smaller units for multiple families. The architectural team preserves this 'patio-centric' concept, allowing for more private room and suite configurations while fostering community connection through a central open space and rooftop area.
Each of the 25 rooms and suites showcases a sleek, minimalist design that highlights fine craftsmanship and premium materials. The spaces exude tranquility and privacy, providing a serene retreat from the bustling city streets. Eighteen rooms feature private skylit courtyard patios, while others boast balconies. The choice of materials is pivotal to the hotel’s narrative and guest experience, with many elements echoing the city’s surroundings and emphasizing a strong bond to local culture. The central patio floors, finished in basalt stone, reflect both the Centro Histórico district and the surrounding volcanoes. The interior walls, plastered in hues that complement the natural stone, create a pristine backdrop softened by the natural ash-wood used in furniture, doors, and fixtures. Distinctive architectural features such as brick barrel ceilings, exposed beams, and wooden shuttered windows add unique character to individual spaces.
The rooftop terrace serves as a communal hub, inviting guests and families to gather. Complete with a swimming pool, bar, and lounge, the terrace offers breathtaking views of downtown, the metropolitan cathedral, the national palace, and Templo Mayor. Lush foliage and planters create a seamless flow between the terrace and the city, offering privacy while still maintaining the historic architecture's visual presence. Casual seating arrangements provide a cozy atmosphere to enjoy the surroundings, while the adjacent restaurant presents an opportunity for guests to indulge in culinary delights that celebrate Mexico’s rich cultural legacy.
