LABOTESSA, New Luxury Hotel to Open in Cape Town, August 2019

LABOTESSA, New Luxury Hotel to Open in Cape Town, August 2019

LABOTESSA, a 17th-century congressional church turned lifestyle hotel, will open in August 2019. Originally built in the early 1700s, the intimate, seven-room property is one of the oldest buildings in South Africa and the debut project in the LABOTESSA portfolio by hoteliers Jan Fourie and Johan du Plessis. The South African founders were inspired by the opportunity to meld heritage and old-world elegance with visionary new world design.

LABOTESSA hotel exterior

Situated in a restored landmark structure in the heart of the city, LABOTESSA is the only hotel on the historic Church Square in Cape Town. The lifestyle property blends luxury and personal service with the independence of residential living. Each of the hotel’s seven spacious suites features private elevator access, Juliet balcony and sweeping views of Lion’s Head and Table Mountain. On the ground floor, guests and locals can enjoy the newest outpost of Starling’s, a beloved local cafe utilizing organic and ethically sourced ingredients. The cafe leads into the hotel’s Boutique at LABOTESSA, the first non-high street and department store exclusive fragrance boutique in Cape Town. The Boutique at LABOTESSA will sell high-end products such as Diptyque - the signature product of the hotel, Dr. Vranjaes, Comme des Garcons, Vilhelm, L’Artisan Parfumeur and more. An antique balustrade guides guests to reception on the mezzanine level, with views of the property’s classic fireplace, original chandelier and plush velvet armchairs.

The founders conceptualized every design element in the hotel to evoke 17th-century grandeur fused with a relaxed atmosphere. Commissioned works by local artists and antique pieces weave a narrative inspired by the city’s European influences. Each guest room is unique in its design and configuration. LABOTESSA is home to one of Cape Town’s largest presidential suites: The Governor Suite.

The Governor Suite: The three-bedroom Governor Suite is named after Simon Van der Stel, the first Governor of the Cape. At 3,230 square-feet the suite spans two floors with breathtaking views of Church Square, Signal Hill, and Table Mountain. A completely new build on the hotel’s top floor, the Governor Suite features distinctly modern touches such as a floating staircase and private plunge pool looking out through the balcony’s glass walls.

Ideal for friends, families, and groups traveling together, the Governor Suite has a full kitchen equipped with SMEG appliances, a 10-person dining table and two lounge areas. A modern fireplace is flanked by a padded leather window seat, lending the hotel’s signature sense of comfort to the space. In the bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms with freestanding bathtubs overlook the city of Cape Town.

LABOTESSA hotel suite

Six Signature Suites: Accessible via private elevator from the hotel’s mezzanine level, the Signature Suites feature open plan living. A palette of petrol blues, warm taupe and burnt orange is complemented by Persian rugs dotted throughout. High ceilings and French oak floors emphasize the spaciousness of each 700-square-foot room, and ensuite bathrooms feature blue subway tile and calacatta marble. Modern amenities are integrated within each suite including a custom French armoire with a hidden minibar outfitted with Smeg appliances and crystal flutes for celebrations. A round cocktail table, sofa, and Juliet balcony create multi-use spaces for dining, lounging and basking in the views.

Starling’s: Starling’s – famed for its breakfasts including delectable baked goods, homemade jams and other dishes made of ethically-sourced and organic products – will open its second location at LABOTESSA. Poised to become one of the city’s favorite all-day cafes, tables will spill out onto Church Square as part of a small courtyard garden out front.

LABOTESSA is situated in the Central Business District on Church Square. The hotel itself is surrounded by several architectural treasures including the monumental Groote Kerk, the Slave Lodge set beneath the unmistakable mountainscape of Lion’s Head, The Company Gardens, and Parliament. The hotel is in close proximity to the V&A Waterfront and walking distance to some of Cape Town’s top restaurants, coffee bars, cafés and nightclubs. One of Cape Town’s newest and most popular fine dining establishments, FYN, is located next door and features a menu of Japanese-inspired cuisine fused with South African dishes.

LABOTESSA hotel exterior

Opening rates for LABOTESSA suites start at $340 USD and opening rates for the Governor Suite begin at $2,508 USD. For more information or to book a stay, visit www.labotessa.com.