Habita
Polanco, Mexico City, Mexico
Reviewed by
Lucia Appleby
In the heart of Mexico City's swanky Polanco district is a dazzlingly chic glass-fronted house called 'Habita' - the brainchild of a group of architects called Ten (as in 10 architects) as a showcase for their talents. Leader of the group Enrique Norten says the architectural transformation of a grimy, derelict 1950s apartment block into the sleek and radiant hotel was "like performing surgery".
The resulting clean-lined modern and minimalist building is absolutely stunning to look at: stainless steel, sheets of glass and blond maple blend with white sonora and marble floors. And it's strong too - designed to withstand wind, suction and earthquakes. But it's the open air roof-top pool, Jacuzzi, health suite, sun terrace and juice bar with their views over the city skyscrapers that really steal the show (when Habita opened it instantly became a venue for fashion shoots). Welcome to modern Mexico.
The resulting clean-lined modern and minimalist building is absolutely stunning to look at: stainless steel, sheets of glass and blond maple blend with white sonora and marble floors. And it's strong too - designed to withstand wind, suction and earthquakes. But it's the open air roof-top pool, Jacuzzi, health suite, sun terrace and juice bar with their views over the city skyscrapers that really steal the show (when Habita opened it instantly became a venue for fashion shoots). Welcome to modern Mexico.
Highs
- The interiors blend stunning design and minimalist décor
- You'll find a peaceful atmosphere in an otherwise busy city
- The roof terrace has views of the city's skyscrapers
- The clever room design has expanding doors
- Polanco is full of chic restaurants and is only a short metro or taxi ride from the historic centre
Lows
- It's very hot on the balconies outside the rooms, with no clear view because of the frosted glass
- The rooms themselves can get cold - ask for a heater or extra blankets if you get chilly
- Every floor does look the same
- You might hear some noise from the bar at night
Best time to go
Mexico City can be enjoyed at any time of year, but you might want to avoid the hotter months of May and June, and the rainy season (June-September), when the capital experiences a downpour most afternoons. Busy times include the MACO Contemporary Arts Festival (April), the Pride march (late June), the Cake Festival (August) and Fashion Week (October).
Our top tips
You'll need stylish clothes and skimpy swimwear if you want to pose on the roof, along with some long-sleeved tops for cool evenings on the al fresco deck (although the fire and garden heaters should keep you warm enough). Bring some comfortable shoes for long hours pounding the streets window shopping and trekking to the museums.