The Vibe: Hip hood boutique hotel.

The Area: In Barrio Italia. Free bicycles are available to explore the neighborhood and a free shuttle service for places further ahead. The Andes mountain range peeks above the skyline. It takes less than half-an-hour to stroll west along the tree-lined streets and reach the bustling foodie district of Lastarria, while the bars and colourful buildings of Bellavista are a half-hour walk north, or just one stop on the metro.

The DNA: Maison Italia 1029 is the brainchild of two local sisters, Camila (fashion designer) and Marion (hospitality professional) De Prada. They envisioned the early 20th-century house as a place which integrates design and travel in a creative, social environment. Behind the original Republican-style façade is a total new building fusing minimalist design with warm, native materials. Here, design, art and culture lovers will find a space to share their experiences and ideas, learn about each other, explore trends, have fun and relax, something like a members club – but open to all.

Suite-Me-Up: The hotel’s five rooms are modest in size but have been impeccably designed to maximise space. Four rooms have their own expansive terrace with a pretty garden area and views of the snow-capped Andes across the rooftops. The rooms themselves combine luxurious textures in shades of white and beige with wood accents. Gleaming espresso machines and fridges packed with elderflower cordial and coconut water hint at the hotel’s urban-chic vibe while the modest, sleek bathroom continues the understated elegance of the room.   

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 5 rooms & suites (16-50m2) (172-538 sq ft) • hotel opened: April 2016 • architecture: Horacio Werth, CO2 Arquitectos • interior design: Camila De Prada • bathroom amenities: Stop The Water ✅ free on-site parking • wheelchair accessible