The Vibe: The flavors of Cuba mixed with contemporary European refinement.
The Area: Located in La Habana Vieja, in a picturesque and atmospheric street of colonial splendor and unmistakable vintage charms. You are within walking distance of the famous Obispo and Mercaderes Streets, the Capitol as well as the main port and the famous seaside Malecón.
The DNA: When Dutch abstract artist and fashion industry veteran André Visser and Cuban Sandy Solano Díaz, a professional dancer and musician, met while working in Moscow, they not only fell in love but almost immediately started to think about opening a boutique hotel in Havana “with character, authenticity, and a closeness to the people” which Visser encountered on his worldwide travels. Something like that did not exist in Havana, where choices are limited to large, state-owned hotels and rooms rented out in the homes of local families. The search for a suitable property was also unlike that in Europe, where you hire a broker. A colonial mansion, a diamond in the rough without a roof but with five metre+ walls was found near Solano Díaz’ birthplace by asking around. The result, A|S Boutique Residence, has authentic details have been integrated naturally with the exclusive contemporary design interior – like Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona chairs, industrial lighting, vintage Venetian glass vases – and large abstract paintings by André. A number of fine amenities, including a private lounge for guests, a rooftop terrace with plunge pool and complimentary afternoon drinks, and a happening neighbourhood Grand Café and art gallery, round things off.
Suite-Me-Up: The four (duplex) guest rooms and two generous suites have an urban loft vibe, due to the five metre high ceilings, iconic tailor made louvre doors that provide access to the balcony or impressive windows that open into the patio. Green marble, wood, cast iron and authentic decorative floor tiling, all add to a distinct retrospective feel.
Your hosts: Sandy & André
✅ free Wi-Fi • hotel opened: 2020 • size matters: 4 duplex rooms, 2 suites (17-50m2) (183-538 sq ft) • architecture & interior design: André Visser • bathroom amenities: custom ✅ free street parking • 24-hour front desk • adult only: children aged 16 and above
