It was only a short time ago we featured one of the hotels in the Grupo Habita collection with the Hotel Americano in New York and now Chicago is calling us to explore another on-point opening from the Mexican hotel group. This time they’ve joined forces with architecture firm Delordinaire and design studio Cique to bring a former furniture storage facility back to life. As one of two sister properties on the block (high end establishment The Robey is next door) The Hollander caught our attention for how its design inhabits the raw space while injecting elegant new features.

Stripping back the interior spaces to reveal the raw surfaces of the original building, the design adds in contemporary finishes like polished concrete, birch plywood and steel framing to bring the spaces firmly to the modern age. The hotel’s central lobby space is a centrepiece of activity, with a bike shop, coffee bar, reception and guest lounge blend into each other without a cramped corner to be seen. The twenty private and shared rooms give the option to meet others and share a space (without the uncomfortable hostel vibes) or keep things private – the hotel’s goal is to ‘bring together people who love food, design, the arts and culture’ for a great time and a good night’s sleep.

DESIGN Delordinaire and Cigue | PHOTOGRAPHY Adrian Gaut

Leaning in to its imminent hipster hotspot status, the hotel sits at the centre of the ‘six-corners’ meeting point of two of Chicago’s most dynamic neighbourhoods, Wicker Park and Bucktown. Steps from the ‘L’ train and close to more galleries, wine bars, boutiques and dining spots than you can fit in a lengthy stay, the location seems perfect for a hotel that epitomises edgy downtown style.

Maybe it’s just our eye for luxury getting in the way but it’s rare to find a space that is both elegant and cost-effective – but The Hollander definitely ticks both boxes.  Whether you’re limited by budget or simply want to experience authentic Chicago cool, The Hollander has got you covered.

While next door’s establishment The Robey may hold the obvious luxury status, we have a sneaky feeling even the distinguished guests are likely to pop next door for an espresso or espresso martini at The Hollander’s H! bar. Delordinaire created custom lighting and furniture throughout the space, paring beautifully with the stripped-back space and exposed walls.