Stranger things have happened, but not many. A Palermo Viejo mechanic’s workshop has become Buenos Aires’ most stylish boutique hotel.
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rnWhat was the spare parts shed is now an art deco super-suite, and what was the garage pit is now a turquoise pool overlooked by sculptures of angels. Designed and owned by the inspired carpenter Diego Padilla and the interior designer Eugenia Choren – who styled the Rincón del Socorro Estancia in Los Esteros del Ibera – Costa Petit opened in late 2006, the product of the couple’s passion for wood and fabrics.
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rnThe result is a work of art. Diego’s wood flooring and furniture is subtly complemented by Eugenia’s use of soft textiles. Guests – mechanics included – can now rent the entire hotel for US$800. But if you are willing to share, there are four rooms to go round.
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rnOpen the heaviest wooden door in the province and stroll into Costa Petit’s library lobby and sitting room. This chill-zone room is just a metre away from the pool. The pool is a couple of metres away from the smoothly sophisticated rooms. The bar is a metre away from the sofas that overlook the pool and Brazilian grass garden, overlooked too by the suites. This private haven in a happening area is boutique-hotel heaven.