Curioso: Crafting Memorable Hospitality Experiences Through Human Connection and Contextual Design

The genesis of Curioso, a distinguished design studio with dual headquarters in Chicago and Mérida, Mexico, is rooted in a profound mission: to conceive interiors that forge powerful, lasting memories. Since its establishment in 2013, the firm has consistently championed a design philosophy that prioritizes human connection and deeply integrates with the unique context of each project, whether it be the surrounding neighborhood, the architectural shell, or the overarching brand identity.

The Visionaries Behind Curioso

The foundation of Curioso’s ethos is inextricably linked to the experiences of its co-founders, Daniel Pierce and Nina Grondin. Pierce’s journey into hospitality design began in Mexico City, where his tenure with architect Francisco Hanhausen’s practice provided an early immersion into the sector. A pivotal early project was his involvement in conceptualizing the Live Aqua resort in Cancun, an experience that cemented his understanding of hospitality’s core driver: human connection. Pierce observed that hotels transcend their function as mere lodging; they evolve into vibrant communal hubs, fostering interaction and shared experiences. This realization profoundly shaped his approach to design, emphasizing the creation of spaces that encourage gathering and belonging.

Nina Grondin’s professional trajectory took a different, yet complementary, path. Her early career in finance, while seemingly distant from the creative realm, proved instrumental in her eventual pivot to design. It was during her time in finance that Grondin recognized her innate draw towards people and a desire for more tangible outcomes from her labor. She yearned for work where she could "see, feel, and engage in the fruit of my labor," a sentiment that ultimately steered her towards the impactful world of design.

The paths of Pierce and Grondin converged at The Gettys Group, a prominent hospitality design firm in Chicago. It was here that their shared ambition to lead high-touch, deeply personal projects coalesced, leading to the co-founding of Curioso. Their combined expertise and a mutual drive for impactful design have since propelled the studio to the forefront of the hospitality industry.

A Philosophy of Contextual and Collaborative Design

At the heart of Curioso’s design methodology lies a steadfast commitment to understanding and integrating with the inherent context of each project. "Each space crafted by the firm emerges from its context, whether that’s the neighborhood, the building, or the brand," explains Pierce. This principle is not merely a theoretical construct but a practical application that informs every design decision. The firm’s approach is deliberately not stylistically defined. Instead, it is a dynamic response to the unique parameters of each commission, ensuring that every creation feels authentic and resonant.

This bespoke approach is facilitated by a deeply ingrained company culture that champions collaboration and individuality. Grondin elaborates, "Instead, it is born from a process that is human and collaborative, stemming from a company culture where everyone on our team is an individual. They bring their whole selves to a project, and it shows up in what we create." This inclusive environment, where nearly 50 professionals contribute their unique perspectives, fosters an atmosphere of creative synergy. The result is a portfolio of projects that are not only aesthetically compelling but also imbued with a sense of place and purpose, reflecting the diverse talents of the Curioso team.

A Portfolio of Impactful Hospitality Projects

Since its inception, Curioso has left an indelible mark on the hospitality landscape, undertaking a diverse range of projects that exemplify their design philosophy. Among their notable achievements is the Atelier Playa Mujeres resort in Cancun, an elevated all-inclusive property that opened in 2020. This resort masterfully celebrates its Mexican locale, integrating local culture and natural beauty into its guest experience.

Another significant project is Populus Seattle, a pioneering adaptive-reuse development that champions carbon-positive principles. This project highlights Curioso’s commitment to sustainable design and their ability to reimagine existing structures with a forward-thinking approach. The transformation of the Fidelity Hotel in Cleveland stands as a testament to their expertise in breathing new life into historic landmarks. This project involved the meticulous renovation of a 103-year-old Neoclassical building, preserving its architectural integrity while infusing it with contemporary functionality and aesthetic appeal. The Vincent suite within the Fidelity Hotel, as illustrated by accompanying imagery, exemplifies this blend, featuring vibrant teal hues and floral accents to cultivate a welcoming, lived-in ambiance.

Expanding Horizons and Future Endeavors

Curioso’s influence continues to expand, with a robust pipeline of upcoming projects that underscore their growing prominence. Among these are the highly anticipated Six Senses Grand Bahama, a venture that promises to deliver a luxurious and environmentally conscious experience, and further developments in Costa Rica and Mexico, reinforcing their strong presence in Latin American markets.

The studio is also undertaking the significant task of reimagining the guestroom experience at The Cloister, a historic property designed by Addison Mizner, located within The Boca Raton resort. This project involves a delicate balance of preserving the iconic architectural heritage while enhancing guest comfort and modern amenities. Furthermore, Curioso is set to contribute to the burgeoning hospitality scene in Omaha, Nebraska, with the design of Aparium’s Millwork Hotel, slated for a 2027 opening. Their vision will also extend to Greenville, South Carolina, with the M. Heller hotel, part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, expected to debut in 2028.

The appeal of developing projects in "under-the-radar" cities holds particular significance for Pierce and Grondin. They view these locations as opportunities to create truly destination-defining spaces that can become vital community assets. Their work on the Harbor Grand Hotel and Marina Grand Resort in New Buffalo, Michigan, exemplifies this. The associated restaurants, The Terrace Room and Bentwood Tavern, have been conceptualized not just as dining establishments but as community clubhouses, spaces where locals feel a sense of ownership and belonging.

Measuring Success: The Impact of Community Integration

For Curioso, the ultimate measure of design success is not solely aesthetic appeal or critical acclaim, but the genuine integration of their projects into the fabric of the communities they serve. Pierce articulates this philosophy with clarity: "When people come in and call it their own, we know we’ve done our work and created a meaningful place." This sentiment underscores their belief that true hospitality design fosters a sense of belonging, transforming transient spaces into cherished destinations. The firm’s dual-location structure, with studios in both the bustling metropolis of Chicago and the culturally rich city of Mérida, Mexico, allows them to draw inspiration from diverse environments and maintain a deep understanding of varied local contexts, further enriching their ability to create these meaningful connections.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining a Legacy of Memorable Spaces

As Curioso continues to grow and take on increasingly ambitious projects, their core mission remains steadfast: to create hospitality experiences that resonate deeply with guests and contribute positively to their surroundings. Their collaborative, human-centered approach, combined with a keen eye for context and a dedication to crafting spaces that foster genuine connection, positions them as a leading force in the evolution of hospitality design. The firm’s trajectory, marked by a consistent delivery of unique and impactful projects, suggests a future where Curioso will continue to shape the way we experience travel and community, one memorable interior at a time. The studio’s presence in both major urban centers and emerging markets, coupled with their commitment to historical preservation and modern innovation, indicates a well-rounded strategy for sustained influence in the global hospitality sector. Their ongoing work on diverse projects, from expansive resorts to boutique hotels, illustrates a capacity to adapt and excel across various scales and types of hospitality ventures.

The firm’s origins in 2013 coincide with a period of significant evolution in the hospitality industry, marked by an increasing demand for authentic, experiential travel. Curioso’s founding principles align perfectly with this trend, positioning them as a forward-thinking studio capable of meeting the contemporary traveler’s desire for more than just a place to sleep. The emphasis on human connection, a cornerstone of their design philosophy, directly addresses the growing need for spaces that facilitate social interaction and a sense of belonging, whether for leisure or business travelers. This focus on the experiential aspect of hospitality is a key differentiator, setting Curioso apart in a competitive market. Their ability to weave narrative and emotion into their designs ensures that each project tells a unique story, further enhancing guest engagement and creating a lasting impression. This strategic approach to storytelling through design has been instrumental in building their reputation and securing a steady stream of high-profile commissions.