Crystalbrook Collection is expanding its presence to the Australian Capital Territory, in line with founder Ghassan Aboud’s vision to become “a truly national hotel group”.
A partnership with prominent Canberra developer Tony Pan of TP Dynamics, will see the construction of a new-build hotel in the nation’s capital, slated to open in the first quarter of 2027.
The hotel will form part of a 10-storey mixed-use commercial and hotel development on Bunda Street, encompassing the current Garema Arcade building.
“With the announcement of our new Canberra property and the continued expansion of the group across Australia with recent expansion into Adelaide and the acquisition of a second property in Sydney, my vision for Crystalbrook Collection as a truly national hotel group is coming to fruition,” said Crystalbrook Collection Founder, Ghassan Aboud.
“This growth of our brand across Australia is delivering a strong base for a future expansion of Crystalbrook Collection into overseas markets.”
The Canberra property will feature 238 guest rooms, a rooftop bar and restaurant, ground floor dining venue, a luxury retail operator, a ballroom, meeting and function rooms, Crystalbrook’s Eléme Day Spa, pool, and gym facilities, as well as a central skylight atrium and gardens.
TP Dynamics has secured building approval and construction is already underway following a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday March 28.
“At TP Dynamics, we are committed to the vision for Canberra’s evolution, and we are proud to contribute to the city’s next phase of growth,” said Tony Pan.
“Crystalbrook’s ethos and values are consistent with our goals for central Canberra’s revitalisation, and together we are delighted to build a legacy for the city.”
Visitor numbers to Canberra are on the rise, with the tourism board reporting 5.7 million visitors in 2023 alone, bringing in a total of AU$3.7 billion in expenditure.
As part of revitalisation efforts, the ACT Government’s City Renewal Authority is set to upgrade the Garema Place Public Realm to include a modern dining and retail precinct with increased green space and outdoor dining.
“As the ACT Government continues their strategic plan to revitalise central Canberra, we at Crystalbrook are thrilled to be part of these efforts in collaboration with TP Dynamics,” said Crystalbrook Collection CEO, Geoff York.
“Canberra’s increasing appeal makes it a perfect fit for Crystalbrook’s commitment to delivering responsible luxury experiences.”
Crystalbrook’s Canberra hotel will adopt sustainability initiatives including recycled coat hangers and key cards, zero-waste coffee capsules, and the labelling of ‘Climate Calories’ across all restaurants.