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Mexico City's problems with smog, traffic and overpopulation evaporate within seconds of stepping inside the Condesa df. Situated in the leafy and bohemian Condesa neighbourhood, it is the latest establishment in the expanding chain of Mexican design hotels that includes the über-slick Habita in the capital and Deseo in Playa del Carmen. But while Habita is a paean to urban minimalism, Condesa df, a wedge-shaped 1920s building overlooking the verdant Parque Espaņa, is a celebration of colour and texture. Turquoise walls, lush green plants and rich walnut furniture fill the airy white spaces, while retro furnishings, antique vases and fibreglass lights resembling giant balls of wool create a modern, eclectic aesthetic. At the heart of the hotel lies the Patio, a triangular courtyard that is home to the main restaurant and bar. The plant-filled space is surrounded by towering walls of white shutters, creating a series of geometric patterns that give way to a triangular patch of blue sky. The 40 bedrooms are decorated in subdued shades of cream, chocolate-brown and moss-green. Terrazzo tiling and walnut panelling feature alongside iPods and wireless Internet access. The roof terrace, lined with semicircular-shaped sofas to maximise the treetop views, has a sushi restaurant, bar, hammam and thermal bath. A nightclub and cinema, due to open in the basement by the summer, are poised to confirm the Condesa df's position as the coolest place in town.
WHEN TO GO
The balmy party months of April and May
ROOM TO BOOK
A Terrace suite
CONTACT
Condesa df, Avenida Veracruz 102, Colonia Condesa, Mexico City, Mexico (00 52 55 5241 2600; fax: 5241 2640; www.condesadf.com). Doubles from US$194; Terrace suite US$380
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