PLAYA DEL CARMEN, MEXICO—Cornerstone has launched its Hotel Matilda-themed collection of lifestyle-focused boutique hotels with the opening of Hotel Cacao here.
Located on Playa del Carmen’s famous 5th Avenue, the 60-room property is located near restaurants, clubs and boutiques.
The team that created the ‘Matilda lifestyle’ guest experience at Hotel Matilda in San Miguel de Allende founded Cornerstone in 2013. The hotel management and development company is building what it terms a ‘Hotel Matilda Lifestyle Collection’ of boutique properties in strategic locations throughout Mexico. The second hotel will open in 2015 in the San Angel district of Mexico City.
Architect Rodrigo de la Peña has imbued the property with dramatic architectural elements, such as huge canvas accents in geometric shapes and a central court with a hyacinth lily pond. The interior design is clean and contemporary with bold color accents. The rooftop bar features mixology experiences blended with views of the Caribbean and Cozumel Island.
Hotel Cacao’s restaurant, Nibs, is helmed by Chef Alejandro Cuatepotzo, a protégé of Enrique Olvera, who was chef de cuisine at Hotel Matilda’s Moxi restaurant.
The area’s tropical ambience inspired the restaurant décor, with an original jungle mural by international street artist Eduardo Kobra, a flowing water wall, and banana and passion fruit plants. In contrast to the colorful tropical atmosphere, Namuh-designed walnut tables and chairs with Italian carrera marbletops are accented by simple white linens and china.
In addition, an after-hours-style bar downstairs has a bordello look. Other design elements include quirky art in strategic interior locations, including brightly painted VW Bugs by Tommy Hilfiger.
According to the company, experiences that have molded the Matilda Lifestyle, and that are incorporated in the guest experience at Hotel Cacao, include rooms and suites with designer appointments and amenities; dramatic works of art installed at key locations that define the interior spaces; innovative cuisine; one-of-a-kind artistic and culinary events; and a lounge known for its creative mixology.
San Miguel de Allende-based Cornerstone plans to expand through a combination of acquisitions, management contracts such as Hotel Cacao, partnerships and new developments.