Housed in the famed Edificio Mihanovic building on the stylish Calle Arroyo, Casa Lucía, the first property beyond Spain for Único Hotels, has been created as a love letter to Argentina…
Bound by family ties to Argentina, Único Hotelier Pau Guardans has long adored the vibrancy of the city and been enchanted by the country’s dramatic landscapes, lively culture, and rich cuisine. Casa Lucía’s launch in January 2024 will bring a new luxury accommodation and exceptional Único service to Argentina’s capital.
Casa Lucía is housed within the historic Edificio Mihanovich, once the tallest building in Latin America, designed to offer spectacular views of the Río de la Plata, resembling a lighthouse meant to welcome those arriving to Buenos Aires for the first time. Helmed by Único’s dedicated team, the hotel will stay true to its roots and serve as a welcoming beacon for locals and international travellers alike. Radiating Argentina’s warmth, the team at Casa Lucía aims to offer exceptionally personalised service, introducing guests to the city’s best under-the-radar experiences and destinations, as well as insight into Buenos Aires’ stories past and present.
The property is located on the stylish Calle Arroyo, a charming curved road famed for its elegant French architecture and renowned for hosting Buenos Aires’s top fashion houses and art galleries. Calle Arroyo runs through the heart of the Recoleta, a neighbourhood home to elaborate historic palaces, chic shops and cultural landmarks including the Recoleta cemetery where the iconic Argentine first lady, Eva Peron, is laid to rest.
“I have always been in awe of Argentina because it’s a country that has everything: mountains, oceans, deserts, and ice and because it’s the beloved home of much of my family,” explained Pau Guardans, CEO of Único Hotels. “Between the storied Edificio Mihanovic that will house Casa Lucía and its location on the elegant Arroyo Street, this was an unmissable opportunity for Unico Hotels to expand beyond Spain.”
Guests arriving at Hotel Casa Lucía are immersed at once into a celebration of Buenos Aires. More than a lobby, the lively entrance features a large-scale bespoke mural from local mixed media artist Cristina Codern and is designed to capture the energy of Argentina. Bringing together the latest creative talent from local design and architectural houses, the year-long refurbishment was led by Buenos Aires-based firm Torrado Arquitectos, alongside the interior design team from South American design firm Fernanda Schuch Studios.
The hotel’s 142 guestrooms and suites feature sleek furnishings that contrast and complement its historic roots, as well as contemporary art from award-winning Argentine artist, Cristián Mohaded whose work is featured in the Philadelphia Museum of Art and at the Musée Les Arts Décoratifs in Paris. Taking full advantage of sweeping views, many rooms and suites feature balconies with outdoor showers, sun loungers and outdoor dining, giving guests the chance to savour the sight of the city and Río de la Plata.
Poised to introduce a new culinary destination to the city, Casa Lucia will open with Cantina Restaurant, a vibrant new hotspot drawing inspiration from authentic Argentine aromas and flavours, whilst capturing the essence of the land with fresh, local ingredients. An homage to the country’s famed cuisine and renowned wines, guests may savour the sharp flavors of Cantina Restaurant in its luminous dining room, or in one of six rooms with private service and natural light.
Next door, Le Club Bacan, a spirited cocktail bar helmed by Cocktail Master Martín Suaya, will bring an energetic new gathering place to the fashionable neighbourhood. It will offer over 400 varieties of Argentine wine curated by Master Sommelier Aldo Garcia and music from Buenos Aires’ best DJs.
Promising guests a sanctuary in the city, Casa Lucía will be home to a luxurious spa comprising three treatment cabins, a state-of-the-art gym and an elaborate 16 metre pool framed by mirrors and towered over by the spectacular photography of artist Marc Zimmerman.
> Since you’re here, why not explore the Maroma, a reimagined hotel with interiors by Tara Bernerd & Partners, honouring Mexican heritage?
Main image credit: Hotel Casa Lucía