Studio Moneo Brock Architects brings a fresh perspective to Santo Domingo’s historic district with Kimpton Las Mercedes, a hotel that bridges the past and present. Located in the heart of the Colonial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 130-room project respects the architectural heritage while introducing modern elements that improve the urban experience.
Santo Domingo, founded in 1496, holds the title of the oldest city in the Americas. Its Colonial City, shaped by a Renaissance-style layout dating back to the 16th century, is undergoing a transformation that revitalizes its streets, monuments, and public spaces. This renewal reduces vehicular traffic, integrates greenery, and encourages pedestrian-friendly environments, ensuring a more inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
A Landmark Reimagined
Kimpton Las Mercedes plays a key role in this revitalization, standing as a model of preservation and modern adaptation. The project transforms a historic block into a welcoming space that reflects the local character, balancing tradition with innovation.
The hotel maintains the original facades while incorporating elevated structures and courtyards that complement the surroundings. Instead of imposing on the neighborhood, the design improves the existing environment, ensuring a natural integration with the historical scale of the district.
A Green Oasis in the Colonial City
Locally sourced materials, lush courtyard spaces, and open public areas position Kimpton Las Mercedes as more than just a place to stay. The design encourages accessibility, offering guests and locals a retreat that feels like an extension of the city itself. The concept of a “green block” supports a communal atmosphere, inviting interaction while enhancing the neighborhood’s identity.
At the heart of the hotel, the preserved central courtyard stands as a tribute to the original structure. The existing vegetation remains intact, reinforcing the connection to nature. Surrounding corridors draw in natural light and airflow, shaping an inviting atmosphere that reflects the tropical environment. Each room features a balcony overlooking these courtyards, and select suites include private terraces with jacuzzis, elevating the guest experience.
Elevated Views and Modern Comfort
A rooftop terrace offers a solarium, swimming pool, and gym, creating a space where guests can relax while taking in panoramic views of the sea and the historic cityscape. This setting bridges the city’s colonial past with the comforts of contemporary hospitality, reinforcing the hotel’s role as a destination within Santo Domingo.
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Inside, the design showcases materials such as travertine, wood, and ceramics, selected for both their authenticity and sustainability. The wood, chosen for its insulating properties and low carbon footprint, increases the natural aesthetic while adapting to the tropical climate.
A Destination for Culture and Community
Beyond accommodations, Kimpton Las Mercedes creates an immersive experience with event spaces, dining venues, and a grand hall suited for weddings and corporate gatherings. By combining history, sustainability, and modern hospitality, the hotel establishes itself as a premier destination in the Colonial City, offering guests a refined yet locally grounded stay in one of Latin America’s most significant historic districts.
Studio: Moneo Brock Architects
Author: Belén Moneo, Jeff Brock
Design team: Javier del Pozo, Federico Pérez, Laura Cerpa, Peter Rae, Laura Alonso, Francisco Blázquez, Gador Potenciano, Yaiza Camacho, Maite Rodríguez, Enrique González, Miguel de la Ossa
Project location: 155 Las Mercedes Street, 10210 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Project year: 2019
Completion year: 2024
Gross floor area: 6380 m²
Plot size: 3700 m²
Client: Megeve Investment Office
Photographer: Sergio López
Collaborators and suppliers
Building services engineering: Engineers Assesors
Technical architect: Aparejadores ACC
Structural engineering: Calter
Contractor: Aybar Constructora
Interior designers: Pepe Deudero and Linette Nardi
Lighting design: CA2L
Landscape design: PWP Studio
Brand: KIMPTON IHG
Operator: Iberostar
Structural consultants: Calter Ingeniería
Electrical consultants: Estel
Woodwork: Alumader
