Before and After: Inside the R30m GrandWest Hotel Upgrade

The first phase of GrandWest's renovation has officially been unveiled - and it’s every bit as glamorous as you’d expect.

The Grand Hotel’s newly revamped Salon Privé, Union Castle dining room and lounge area have emerged from months of work to reveal a space that oozes sophistication. 

Grand Hotel's Glam New Look!

Designed by David Muirhead & Associates, the makeover showcases modern upgrades of its old 2000s-inspired wood panelling, featuring deep nautical blues, golds, and lush textures that showcase a smart, thoughtful reimagining of the space.

The revamp of the Hotel's dining, private lounges, and gaming areas forms part of its extensive R600 million overhaul underway at Cape Town's most popular casino and entertainment experience.     

“The renovation of our Union Castle dining room and Salon Privé has been a long time in the planning," states GrandWest General Manager Mervyn Naidoo. "It was interrupted by Covid, but became a priority when the Grand Hotel expanded to over double its size. But we wanted more than just additional space, we wanted an experience for our guests, and our interior design specialists have achieved just that.” 

 Before and After: Union Castle Dining Area

Muirhead’s team opened up the layout by removing dividing walls, creating a seamless flow between dining and gaming areas. The revamped Union Castle dining room pays homage to Cape Town’s maritime past with navy panelling, gold-detailed columns and a triple-volume glass ceiling that glows with soft, indirect light.

Before and After: Salon Privé

At the other end, the Privé lounge leans into bold textures and comfort, featuring velvety blues, golds and daring jungle prints. A marble bar with blush-pink seating anchors the space, while a locally crafted recycled-glass chandelier brings a show-stopping yet sustainable flair to the space.

“We set out to create a bold, colourful, glamorous, boutique-style experience that appeals to all the senses,” said David Muirhead. “The result is contemporary, sophisticated and balanced by comfort.”

A new Salon Privé Bar and Gaming Amenities 

The all-new Grand Hotel Privé ups the ante with dedicated spaces for high-rollers who prefer a bit of privacy. The sleek gaming floor is accented with curved LED screens and bespoke digital displays custom-made for GrandWest.

The rarely scene Captain’s Cabin and Private Room take high-stakes gaming to the next level. It dazzles in red and gold, accommodating up to 30 players at its tables - with Baccarat, Blackjack and Roulette on offer - with a plush lounge for an extra ten guests. It's bold, yet discreet and rather indulgent space.

R600m expansion continues

At the reveal, Naidoo spoke candidly about the ongoing R600m development and the various challenges, including relocating Eskom power lines and the extensive groundwork for the necessary water and sewage systems, that are underway. 

Developed by Flanagan & Gerard in partnership with Sun International, the 22,000 sqm centre will connect directly to the existing entertainment complex, offering a curated mix of grocery, fashion, food, and lifestyle retail. The mall promises a vibrant, family-friendly space tailored to local needs. The upgrade is expected to be completed by March 2027.