The Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla

General Contractors

Hathaway Dinwiddie Construction Company

Makers

Curiot
Sleepwalck
Marisol D’Estrabeau
Kalisher
Indiewalls
Designs by Mai

Photographer

Wil Pryce Photos

Finishes

Durkan
Ceramic Antiqua
Marmolas Arch

FF&E

Marbol
Ceramics
Bakan Furniture
Kun Design
Out Design Group

Consultants, Engineers,
Sub-contractors

Designs by Mai

Situated in Cancun’s lively hotel zone overlooking the natural beauty of Nichupté Bay, the Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla is an urban oasis, striking a delicate balance between “playful” and “refined” through art-infused elements integrated into every space of the hotel. True to the Canopy by Hilton brand, the energy and colorful culture of Cancun is reflected in the property’s thoughtfully local experiences through architecture, design, culinary, and neighborhood-based programming.

Given the brand’s “authentically local” approach to the lifestyle category, the design process began with extensive research into the locale to gain a deeper understanding of our context, the past and present of this place in terms of culture, local influences, and lore.

Upon Entry, a striking lattice-work ceiling weaves its way over the lobby and into the Cafe, suggesting the handmade ladders and layered root systems that descend into a cenote. Honest natural textures of stone and wood combine with vibrant patterns to create a distinctive introduction. Seating groups take on a relaxed, playful attitude amidst the grandeur and elegance of the lobby volume.

Sitting prominently above the Canopy Central bar, a signature mural tells an imaginative story of a fox in search of nourishment in the desert; upon discovering and drinking from an oasis of magical agaves, stays forever in that enchanting place where all fear is lost.

Artful storytelling continues in the guestrooms where detailed murals portray scenes of cenote-inspired scenes, symbolic of the guests’ adventures. The open-concept closet is a delightful discovery, allowing natural lighting and views to seep deep into the space. Softer elements like woven sheers and embroidered pillows on the oversized day bed solidify the sense of place through natural textures and locally inspired patterns. Opposite the day bed, a hanging swing at the window is the playfully sculptural feature of the room

Street art and the muralist movement there have quickly become one of the most expressive means through which the community has begun to shape their voice, providing a platform through which to rattle the misconception that Cancun is merely a spring break vacation destination, and allowing them to forge a new cultural identity as a vibrant and inspired creative-class community.

Culturalist travelers often seek out local artists and murals throughout the cities they visit. By enlisting well-known local muralists: Curiot, Sleepwalck, and Marisol D’Estrabeau, the designers created distinctive moments in the hotel that place it naturally in the path of art-seeking travelers. Partnership with these local artisans provides guests an authentic local experience before they even step food from the hotel. Featuring the signature styles of artists who highlight natural influences and curious mythical creatures in their work, our feature murals sit prominently above each space, layering paint colors and line work over materials and textures commonly found within Mexican architectural vernacular. Expressed with a modern edge, themes relate to the sacred cenotes and the natural bounty of Quintana Roo.

Upon entry, a striking lattice-work ceiling weaves its way over the lobby and into the Cafe, suggesting the handmade ladders and layered root systems that descend into a cenote. Honest natural textures of stone and wood combine with vibrant patterns to create a distinctive introduction. Seating groups take on a relaxed, playful attitude amidst the grandeur and elegance of the lobby volume.

Sitting prominently above the Canopy Central bar, a signature mural tells an imaginative story of a fox in search of nourishment in the desert; upon discovering and drinking from an oasis of magical agaves, stays forever in that enchanting place where all fear is lost.

Beyond, we discover Azulinda Cafe, whose wall treatments inspired by regional architecture, a nod to the locals, are painted pastel and white, providing freshness while natural wood tones warm the palette. As a backdrop to the space, a second mural pays tribute to the destination’s bountiful flora.