Artwork enlivens the hotel’s mezzanine/coworking area
Cancun’s natural wonders have long attracted adventure-seeking tourists, but the city has also become known for its bustling urban nightlife and thriving street art scene in recent years. That eclectic mix influenced HBA International’s design for the Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla, a 174-room hotel overlooking Nichupté Bay. “Our challenge was to balance those elements to define and express an authentic sense of place,” says senior associate Brooke Copani.
Wall décor plays a key role in that endeavor. A style of Mexican folk art called Alebrije, for example, inspired a vibrant mural of a fox over the granite waterfall-style bar in the two-story lobby. In the nearby café, an installation made of interlocking doors and window shutters in pastel hues defines a niche furnished with a built-in banquette. “We used materials found in the local vernacular to bring in some warmth and texture,” Copani says.
An expansive fox mural punctuates the lobby-level bar lounge
Indeed, the reception desk is a monolithic slab of carved wood with a live edge, rustic tree stumps serve as seating, and strands of thick rope hang from the ceiling to create textural space dividers. Not to mention the polished Caledonia granite flooring, which “reflects the ceiling just as the cenotes reflect the sky,” Copani says of the area’s iconic formations.
Thanks to its tall windows, the cavernous lobby is drenched with natural light. When the sun sets, however, layered lighting, illuminated reveals, and backlit shelving fosters a more subdued vibe ideal for cocktails and conversation. “It highlights the textures, enhances the mood, and keeps the energy vibrant throughout the day,” says Copani.
The Wander Rooftop Bar & Juicery is situated on the pool level
That also applies to the guestrooms and suites, which are “as vibrant and artful as the pubic spaces,” says Copani. Here, wooden canopy headboards are adorned with handpainted murals. In addition, each room includes a hanging chair that offers a relaxing spot to take in the fabulous ocean views.
Open since December, the public has embraced the new addition to Cancun’s buzzy resort scene. “The eclectic approach resulted in a harmonious, relaxed yet energetic atmosphere,” she says. “It’s a fun place to be.”
Natural materials and textures infuse the hotel with a sense of warmth
The 600-square-foot junior suite offers panoramic views of the Nichupté Bay
Chaise lounge chairs line the rooftop pool
