Queen Victoria opens at the V&A

WORDS: Remy Raitt | PHOTOS: Supplied by Manley Communications

Opened just a week ago, the Queen Victoria is the newest member of the bevy of fine hotels at the V&A Waterfront. Like its neighbours, the hotel is sure to remind guests why Cape Town is the jewel in South Africa’s crown. 

Officially opened to the public on 9 April 2011, the Queen Victoria Hotel – once home to the V&A Waterfront’s headquarters – has been transformed by Newmark Hotels, Peerutin Architects and Francois du Plessis Interiors into a light-flooded haven filled with luxurious furniture and breathtaking contemporary art.

The creative team was briefed to create a space similar to the Dock House – a small boutique guesthouse neighbouring the Queen Victoria. They succeeded masterfully in their goal, with the most striking feature perhaps being a magnificent spiral staircase – the creation of which fell to architect Tarryn Cohen. Shaped from white Corian® with Volakas marble steps and concealed lighting, the staircase dramatically swirls up the hotel’s three stories.

Other standout elements in the atrium include a large 30-year-old bonsai, imported from Asia, and dramatic wraparound curtains that block off the suite entrances from the hustle and bustle of the hotel’s heart. Plush carpets and twinkling chandeliers add to the decadent space.

The history of the building as an office space worked to the team’s advantage, as each of the 35 rooms differed slightly. In keeping with these unique spaces, interior designer Francois du Plessis selected varying chandeliers and furnishings as accents for the rooms, such that the individuality and variety of each room really sets the hotel apart from its neighbours. Each suite exudes sheer style – from the marble bathtubs and regal Queen Victoria prints, to the 300-thread-count percale cotton sheets.

Francois also worked side by side with architect Tarryn to ensure that the hotel’s bathrooms are as luxurious as possible. “The floating vanities create space, while the underslung basins are convenient for cleaning in a hotel environment,” Francois points out. The floating mirrors, featuring the Queen Victoria logo, add a contemporary touch.

Decor fit for kings

Although the royal-themed colour scheme and glamorous fittings epitomise opulence, Francois has managed to keep the decor understated with striking accents throughout the hotel. “The silver and taupes are elegant and calming, offset by purple accent colours – the colour of royalty,” says Francois of his choice of colour. “I kept the interior colours calm so as not to detract from the stunning views.”

Furniture was sourced locally, with many pieces custom made by Moorgas & Sons, Wunders, Bellacraft Designs and Van Ingen-Kal’s. The luxurious fabrics were chosen from Mavromac, Tessa Sonik and St Leger and Viney collections, while the carpets were made by Crossley and installed by Florstore.

The Queen Victoria partnered with the neighbouring Everard Read Gallery, resulting in an impressive temporary collection of art. Works by Beezy Bailey, Peter Lavery, Guy du Toit, Dylan Lewis, Louise Gelderblom, Zwelethu Mthethwa and Kai Lossgott are showcased in the hotel, until sold by the gallery.

Dash, the hotel’s 36-seater restaurant, is named after Queen Victoria’s favourite spaniel. Here, chef Stephen Templeton serves up contemporary dishes three times daily to both guests and members of the public, with tables by Gregor Jenkin and chairs by Moorgas & Sons elegantly echoing the food served.

All accommodation rates include a full English breakfast. For more information, call 021 427 5959.

For more information on Francois du Plessis Interiors or Peerutin Architects, email fdpinteriors@webafrica.org.za or visit www.peerutin.co.za.