The Circulo Mexicano Hotel

A 19th century residential building transformed into a hotel with Shaker-inspired furniture.

Located in the center of Mexico City, Circulo Mexicano is a new boutique hotel that welcomes travelers with minimalist but warm interiors. Architecture firm Ambrosi | Etchegaray completed the redesign project of a 19th century residential building for Grupo Habita. And it’s not any building. The property was the home of Mexico’s most celebrated photographer, Manuel Álvarez Bravo. The studio preserved the character of the original building, including details on the facade and the central courtyard. On this project, the architects collaborated with interior designer Carlos Couturier and furniture brand La Metropolitana.

While the ground floor now contains a modern marketplace, the upper two levels house the boutique hotel. Minimalist and refined, the 25 rooms feature Shaker-inspired wooden furniture and Mexican artisanal textiles. 18 of the rooms have access to sky-lit patios while the rest have balconies that overlook the city. Manuel Álvarez Bravo’s photographs, chosen in a collaboration with the Manuel Álvarez Bravo Foundation, adorn both the rooms and the public areas.

The hotel offers a range of amenities and services, including organic bathroom products, wireless speakers, bicycle rental, and a co-working space. The rooftop terrace has a swimming pool and provides access to fantastic views of the city. Here, guests can also enjoy a meal at the ONA restaurant and a drink at the bar. Finally, the hotel’s location offers the perfect opportunity to explore the historic center of Mexico City. Apart from Mexico’s oldest cathedral, The Metropolitan Cathedral, travelers can also admire architectural styles that range from ancient to art deco and contemporary. The area is also bursting with lively cafes, markets, shops, and galleries to visit. Photographs© Sergio López, Fabián Martinez.