Hotel Umbral: An Artistic and Architectural Gem in the Heart of Mexico City
Cross the threshold into this destination with art at every turn.
From the Palacio de Bellas Artes to the Museo Nacional De Arte, Mexico City’s Centro Histórico is full of cultural destinations to transport you through the country’s aesthetic history. Amidst these, Hotel Umbral stands as an attractive hub, steeped in its own ecosystem of art, gastronomy, and culture. With a robust Latin American art program and several gallery spaces within its walls—and museums steps away in every direction—the hotel is the ideal home base for arts-loving travelers.
Before you reach these enclaves, Umbral’s blush pink stone facade nods to the building’s history—formerly the Edificio España, key features of the 1920s office building remain. Besides the beautiful exterior, the original curved stairway and striking atrium with glass tile flooring speak to its 20th-century construction. Renovated several years ago, the building’s transformation into a boutique hotel was led by Origen Global, with architecture by JSa and interior design by Nomah.
Each of Umbral’s 59 guest rooms is preceded by a dark, intimate entryway. The contemplation of what a threshold does—marking a point of transition, a demarcation between outside and in—inspired these contrasting areas, which is a theme throughout the property. For the hotel’s 12 suites, this is extended into a sophisticated living space where vinyl record players and mid-century touches give a modern flair. Then, from the dark, a cool, tranquil, and light space envelopes you in the sleeping area where neutral tones and crisp linens invite you to wind down. Meanwhile, each room is outfitted with work by emerging Mexican artists.
Part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, the property also features five dining options, a rooftop pool, a view of Latin America’s oldest and largest cathedral, a small but well-equipped gym, a library of vinyl records, and a conference room that seamlessly transforms into a cozy cinema room.
Along with the physical amenities, Umbral’s 24-hour concierge is available to guests for booking in-room spa treatments, ordering room service, and addressing any other queries. They’re a particularly helpful resource for pointing you in the right direction of under-the-radar art outposts and current cultural programming in CDMX. In fact, a quick walk across the street brings you to Foro Valparaiso, the National Bank of Mexico’s collection of art, spanning from the 18th century to modern installations.
There are plenty of chances to experience Umbral’s charms, even if you’re not an overnight guest. An art gallery on the ground floor invites visitors to cross a golden threshold and appreciate contemporary Mexican art. Meanwhile, Nardo Cocktail Club, a hybrid bar and gallery space that stays open late, presents avant-garde artworks and a creative food and drink menu to match. Also on ground level, the popular juice bar Ojo de Agua sits opposite a café, bakery, and San Ginés Chocolatier.
On the roof, chef Daniel Ovadía has curated two distinct culinary experiences. Oliva (a popular breakfast option for hotel guests) and Paxia (upscale, fine dining with a view) offer modern Mexican flavors. At Paxia, an impressive tasting menu highlights regional ingredients and dishes of Mexico for a gastronomic lesson on heritage.
Throughout the property, you’re reminded of the vibrant spirit that has and continues to make Mexico City a destination for creatives and arts patrons. Whether you’re crossing the threshold into Umbral or back out into the city center, you’re face to face with aesthetic enrichment for all of your senses.