Heritage and Hospitality Intertwined at Kimpton Las Mercedes

Kimpton Las Mercedes is the latest hotel development shaping the ambitious revitalisation of Santo Domingo’s Colonial City — the oldest European-founded city in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Designed to balance preservation and contemporary design, the project sets a benchmark for heritage-led urban renewal in the heart of the Dominican Republic’s capital.

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Located within a historic block, the 130-room hotel respects the Colonial City’s Renaissance-era streetscape while reinterpreting its architectural legacy through a modern lens. The project retains the original facades and central courtyard, enhancing the sense of place while incorporating elevated structures, new courtyards and a permeable layout that aligns with the district’s human-scale character.

Central to the design is a generous courtyard with mature vegetation, preserved and integrated as the hotel’s heart. Surrounded by open-air corridors that draw in natural light and cross breezes, this space anchors a tropical and tranquil atmosphere. Every room connects to this internal landscape through balconies or terraces, with some offering jacuzzis and private outdoor zones that enhance guest comfort.

Above, the rooftop terrace features a solarium, swimming pool, gym and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and Colonial City. This elevated amenity draws a visual connection between the contemporary guest experience and the site’s rich cultural backdrop.

Internally, the material palette champions regional authenticity. Travertine, locally sourced wood and handmade ceramics reflect the country’s natural textures while supporting sustainability objectives. Carefully selected timber, with a low carbon footprint and thermal properties, also supports passive cooling and adapts to the tropical climate.

Beyond luxury accommodation, the hotel includes event spaces, meeting rooms, dining venues, and a hall tailored to both weddings and corporate gatherings — positioning Kimpton Las Mercedes as a dynamic civic asset. As the Colonial City continues its transformation into a modern urban model rooted in history, the hotel stands as a thoughtful, place-responsive anchor.

Images by Sergio López via ArchDaily

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