Iconoclastic real estate magnate Alan Faena envisioned this luxurious five-star hotel to display the transgressor aesthetics that have made him famous and very successful. The building’s design blurs the interdisciplinary lines, ingeniously combining architecture, decoration, visual arts, literature, music, and gastronomy. The result takes us back to the Belle Époque but with modern accents that bring a unique product to South America’s hospitality industry.

Imperial Suite

The hotel was built in a former grain warehouse and decorated by the famous French interior designer and architect Philippe Starck, who knew how to interpret his client’s vision of rich red carpets, velvet curtains, classic leather furnishings, wood floors, and marble tiles. Every beautiful detail complements the old brick building, which features large windows and spectacular views.

Although every room is stunning, the Imperial Suite is especially dazzling. With an area of almost 4,000 square feet, this luxurious two-floor apartment boasts two bedrooms upstairs—each with access to private terraces—while downstairs we find a gorgeous dining room with an adjoining kitchen and seating for a large number of guests.

On the other hand, the Faena suite faithfully reflects the taste of the hotel proprietor. This spacious 2,700 square feet apartment has two bedrooms lavishly decorated with original artwork, highlighting an elegant library, an extensive collection of works by renowned local artists and a beautiful grand piano. The space serves as a haven that enables isolation and introspection. The hotel’s famous owner has replicated this experiment with enormous success in Miami Beach, Florida.

left: A Suite; right: Pool Bar

The hotel amenities are exclusive and well tough out. These include a spa with a meditation room, beauty salon, sauna, pool, gym and massage room. The superb and varied gastronomy invites guests to enjoy an excellent dinner at Bistro Sur, a refined restaurant decorated by Starck that specializes in French dishes. There is also El Mercado, inspired by the old Buenos Aires taverns serving Argentinean cuisine; La Cava, a perfect environment for wine tasting with no less than 4,000 bottles; the Pool bar; the Library Lounge, classic and ideal for a drink or a cup of tea or coffee while enjoying live music, and finally, The Cabaret, a nod to the famous Parisian cabarets of the early 20th century.

left: El Mercado Terraza; right: El mercado salón

At night, music takes over the hotel with live music and shows in the places where food is served. We recommend the Red Tango, one of the best shows in town dedicated to this sultry Argentinean musical genre.

Just three blocks from the hotel, the Faena Group also has the Faena Art Center, one of the most prestigious private art galleries in the city, installed in a remodeled old mill, where renowned local and international artists exhibit their works.

The uniqueness of the Hotel Faena, marked by the personality of its owner, promises to be an unforgettable experience for its guests, especially when we consider its location in one of South America’s most vibrant cities. ■