A Designer’s Guide to Mexico City: Where Art, Craft, and Culture Meet

Mexico City is a vibrant hub for lovers of design, where contemporary creativity fuses seamlessly with cultural traditions. From meticulously crafted interiors to concept stores showcasing local talent, this city offers an inspiring playground for design enthusiasts. During our recent trip, we explored a variety of design gems—from curated stores to fine-dining experiences, each infused with a unique creative spirit. Here’s our guide to some of the best design-focused destinations in Mexico City, offering inspiration and style at every turn.

Where We Stayed: A Cozy Retreat by Alberto Kalach

Our base for this design journey was an apartment designed by the renowned Mexican architect Alberto Kalach. The space embodied a warm and cozy vibe, with wood-paneled walls and panoramic views of Mexico City’s sprawling skyline. Kalach’s thoughtful approach to blending organic materials with modern touches made this the perfect sanctuary to retreat to after a day of exploring the city’s bustling streets. It was a living reflection of Mexico City's architectural innovation, offering the perfect balance of comfort and modernist design.

Casa Bosques: A Bookshop for the Design-Lover’s Soul

Located in the heart of Roma Norte, Casa Bosques is far more than just a bookstore—it’s a curated haven for anyone who loves design, art, and culture. Specializing in independent publications on architecture, design, and visual arts, the shop feels like a treasure trove for creatives. The minimalist design of the store creates a peaceful environment where you can lose yourself in books that push the boundaries of creativity. Casa Bosques is also known for its collaboration with local artisans, offering chocolates and other small products that align with their philosophy of thoughtful, sustainable design.

Pujol: A Culinary Experience with a Designer’s Touch

No trip to Mexico City is complete without indulging in its culinary scene, and Pujol, one of the city’s most celebrated restaurants, is a design destination in its own right. Designed to reflect the rich history and vibrant culture of Mexico, Pujol’s interior is a masterclass in understated elegance. The earthy tones, sleek lines, and natural materials create a warm, intimate atmosphere, making the food all the more spectacular. Chef Enrique Olvera's dishes are works of art, both in flavor and presentation, merging culinary excellence with an eye for detail and design.

Xinu Perfumes: A Sensory Journey Through Design

Perfume may not immediately come to mind when thinking about design, but Xinu Perfumes takes the art of fragrance to a whole new level. Housed in a stunningly designed space, Xinu offers an immersive experience that engages all the senses. The interior is as meticulously crafted as the fragrances themselves, with a modern aesthetic that complements the earthy and botanical ingredients used in their perfumes. Each fragrance tells a story, inspired by Mexico’s rich flora and traditions. For anyone passionate about fragrance, this is a must-visit spot where scent meets architectural beauty.

Fueguia 1833 Mexico: Fragrance Meets Luxury

Another captivating destination for fragrance lovers is Fueguia 1833 Mexico. This Argentinian brand has found a home in Mexico City, and its boutique is a study in sophisticated design. The store’s sleek, understated interior provides a fitting backdrop for its luxurious, hand-crafted perfumes. Fueguia's commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the design of the bottles to the eco-conscious production methods. Here, the intersection of luxury and design is tangible, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Rosetta: Dining in a Creative Haven

For a more intimate dining experience, Rosetta is a must. Nestled in a charming colonial-style building, Rosetta’s design draws on rustic elegance, with exposed brick walls, lush greenery, and antique furniture. The ambiance feels like an extension of the thoughtful, artisanal approach that defines their menu. Chef Elena Reygadas is as much a designer as she is a chef, creating dishes that reflect both contemporary culinary trends and the deep traditions of Mexican cooking. Dining at Rosetta is like being invited into an artist's home—intimate, creative, and undeniably stylish.

ORIGINARIO: Showcasing Homegrown Talent

For those looking to discover Mexico’s best in furniture and home decor, ORIGINARIO is a destination not to be missed. This concept store goes beyond traditional retail, offering a dynamic platform for emerging and established Mexican designers. Brands like Comité de Proyectos, CHUCH, Bestia, and Raúl de la Cerda showcase their innovative designs, blending craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. ORIGINARIO isn’t just a store—it’s a celebration of local creativity, where every piece tells a story of Mexican ingenuity and artistry. Whether you’re in the market for furniture or simply looking for design inspiration, this space offers a treasure trove of ideas.

Decada: Vintage Treasures for Design Enthusiasts

Decada is a hidden gem for those who appreciate the beauty of vintage design. Located in the stylish Condesa neighborhood, this boutique specializes in mid-century modern furniture and decorative objects. Every piece at Decada is thoughtfully curated, offering a snapshot of design history that resonates with both collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. The space feels like stepping into a perfectly preserved time capsule, where each item invites you to imagine the story behind its creation. It’s the perfect place to find unique design treasures that add character and depth to any space.

The Anthropology Museum: A Timeless Masterpiece of Mexican Design

To truly understand the depth of design in Mexico, a visit to the Anthropology Museum is essential. This iconic museum, designed by architect Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, is a masterpiece of modernist architecture and a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. The museum houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts, offering insight into Mexico’s long history of craftsmanship, innovation, and design. The museum’s stunning courtyards and the famous “Umbrella” structure in the central patio are as much a draw as the exhibits themselves. Visiting the Anthropology Museum provided a profound sense of context for everything we saw during our trip—design in Mexico is as ancient as it is cutting-edge.

Watch Our Mexico City Design Tour on YouTube!

To see these incredible destinations come to life, check out our YouTube video where we document our entire experience around CDMX and the Anthropology Museum. From the cozy apartment designed by Alberto Kalach to the architectural splendor, we hope you enjoyed our favorite design discoveries and tips for making the most of your trip to this creative capital.