Maison de la Luz

"What did you notice when you arrived? Beaux Arts flourishes on this former office building hint at the aesthetic whimsy inside. As you pass into the lobby of Maison de la Luz and head beyond the imposing twin staircases on either side, you’re seduced by a curious vision of Art Deco flair and artifacts from around the world, which meld into a hotel unlike any other in the city. What's the backstory? The hotel is a new venture from the Ace Hotel Group, one of two of a new breed (the other is Sister City in New York). Studio Shamshiri designed the look with no small degree of success; if their aim was a luxurious townhouse owned by a world traveler, that’s precisely what they achieved. How were the rooms? Our King Room had dark blue fabrics and rich burnt orange splashes of color, provoking a regal feel. The shower door handles are coiled serpents, the coffee table is gilded with zodiac symbols, and the ice bucket is a golden pineapple. It’s a look that keeps you guessing—one that’s backed up by luxuriously high ceilings, a tiled bathroom, and bespoke toiletries. The minibar includes some particularly high-end spirits (or you can also drink for free at the daily wine-and-cheese hour in the lounge). Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? Wi-Fi is free and fast. How were the food and drink options? There's no full-service restaurant, but there is a delightful a la carte breakfast (from $14), as well as free coffee and pastries. The bar is a real destination; you can enjoy a craft cocktail in a plush scarlet library. If you’re an overnight guest, nose through the secret revolving doorway into your own private salon as everyone else looks on with thinly disguised envy. And the service? The scale of the property (there are just 67 rooms and suites) means that personalized service comes as standard, with each guest treated as a VIP. You'll feel like a guest at someone's home. Who else stays here? The hotel positions itself as a new level of luxury in the city, and it has immediately drawn the attention of some movers and shakers, including some touring A-list rock stars who especially appreciate the privacy. What about the neighborhood? What else is around the hotel? The former law offices have been in the neighborhood for decades, so the hotel slots right into the aesthetic of the Central Business District. Sister property The Ace is right there across the street, so guests can enjoy those facilities—the dining, pool, and entertainment—as well. Bottom line. There's nothing like it in the city." - Paul Oswell