F&B at Canopy By Hilton, Cancún
Restaurant / Mexico / HBA San Francisco / Completed in 2019
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Guests are greeted with a feature chandelier, a colorful and energetic cluster of woven fiber sculptures, casting shadows on the surrounding surfaces that softly dance like leaves in the jungle. Beyond the suspended art feature, a vast lattice-work ceiling weaves its way past the Canopy Central bar and down into the Café, suggesting the handmade ladders and layered natural root systems that descend into the cenote.
Honest materials like chiseled stone at the bar and reclaimed wood at the registration desk combine with rug patterns in bright lively teals and greens to create a welcoming introduction. Seating groups in the central area take on a relaxed, residential attitude amidst the grandeur and volume of the lobby. The overlooking mezzanine is comprised of co-working space, meeting rooms and spa-like transfer lounge.
Above the Canopy Central bar prominently sits a mural by local artists that tells an artistic story of a fox in search of something special in the desert, and upon discovering and drinking from an oasis of magical agaves, stays in that enchanting place where all fear is lost. Paint colors and line work are layered over the angular concrete blocks, reflective of a common screening feature in Mexican architectural vernacular expressed with a modern edge. The bar itself is raw and monolithic with split face granite, polished top and black oak raised panels. Bar stools are crafted from locally sourced, found wood finished with black sides and exposed natural wood finish on top.
At the heart of the lobby is Azulinda Café and Bar. A charming food cart element connects to the café countertop as a playful statement and inspiration for guests in the exploration of local flavors. Wall treatments inspired by regional architectural elements are painted pastel and white as a nod to the history and locale, providing freshness while earthy materials like clear oak and natural walnut warm the palette. Navigating to the rear of the Café, guests discover a mural that pays tribute to the nature and flora of the destination. Like water winding from the cenote to the sea, a secondary entrance connects guests directly to the terrace of La Isla mall.
