Cape Grace Hotel Unveils a New Look, Crafted by 1508 London as the Ultimate Destination on Cape Town’s Waterfront
Perched on its private quay in the bustling V&A Waterfront, Cape Grace Hotel has long stood as a beacon of luxury in Cape Town’s hospitality landscape. First opened in 1996, this grand dame of South African hospitality has emerged from an extensive renovation by design studio 1508 London, marking the most ambitious transformation in its storied history. The red-brick edifice, though modest in exterior, now houses an interior that blends contemporary sophistication with the property’s rich heritage.
Under the stewardship of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, the reimagined Cape Grace presents 112 elegant rooms and suites, each offering a fresh interpretation of luxury that pays homage to South Africa’s diverse cultural tapestry. The transformation, orchestrated by 1508 London, artfully captures Cape Town’s evolution from a historic trading port to a cosmopolitan destination, while maintaining the timeless elegance that has long been the hotel’s hallmark.
Walls of meaning
The hotel’s artistic soul beats strongest in its carefully curated collection of local artwork. Galia Gluckman’s commissioned pieces, ‘Sunrise’ and ‘Sunset’, crafted from recycled materials, embody an ancient African proverb about the perpetual dance of day and night. Johannesburg-based artist Lulama Wolf’s works adorn the walls with deep pigments and distinctive techniques, creating a visual dialogue between traditional African artistry and contemporary expression.
The design palette shifts from bold and vibrant to subtle and inviting,
yet consistently delivers a modern take on classic luxury. French windows and private balconies frame either the marina or the iconic Table Mountain, while the crowning Cape Grace Suite offers a two bedroom haven complete with an expansive terrace, private bar, and butler’s pantry — a testament to the no-expenses-spared approach to opulence.
The epicurean experience
At the helm of the hotel’s culinary renaissance is Heirloom Restaurant, which presents elevated South African-inspired cuisine that pays tribute to local ingredients through a decadent menu. The Bascule Bar has been transformed into a sophisticated homage to Prohibition-era speakeasies, showcasing an impressive whisky collection and exclusive wine cellar. The Library Lounge offers a setting for contemplation, while the new Pool Bar provides a casual retreat for sun-drenched afternoons. The addition of the Fairmont Spa completes the luxury offering, providing treatments inspired by local elements.
Standing at the crossroads of luxury and heritage, the renovated Cape Grace Hotel maintains its position as a bookend of South African journeys — a place where memories begin or culminate at the continent’s southern tip. Under Fairmont’s guidance and 1508 London’s vision, this beloved institution continues to write new chapters in its legacy of excellence, welcoming a new generation of discerning travellers through its doors.
This article is an extract from our 2024/25 Coffee Table Edition. Click here to read the full issue.
