COU RTE SY OF MATAL I H OTEL Mexico's Pacific Coast serves as the setting for the just-opened Matali Hotel. Located in the tropical hills above Banderas Bay and directly adjacent to the fishing village of La Cruz de Huanaxactle, this 40-key destination was designed by Mexican architect Jaime Barba. The hotel's villa-style accommodations-which include fully equipped kitchens along with separate living/dining areas-reflect their setting. A deep teal and light cream palette references the turquoise waters of the bay and light sandy beach, while the stained-wood furnishings and matted rope rugs take a cue from traditional local style. "The design of the hotel was inspired by the rich Mexican culture you find in nearby La Cruz, with its fresh-fish market and Sunday farmer's market," says Raul Nuñez, the Matali's general manager. "This hotel shows how coastal Mexico is meant to be experienced." 42 boutiquedesign.com JULY/AUGUST 2014http://www.boutiquedesign.com