Hilton’s LXR Hotels and Resorts will make its Australian debut in 2027 following a new signing of the hotel previously known as Palazzo Versace and currently operating as The Imperial Hotel.

The signing with hotel owner Islander Hotel Trading Pty Ltd will introduce LXR as a 200-key hotel in early 2027 after a renovation, and marks a milestone in Hilton’s expansion in Australia.

“The Gold Coast provides an ideal setting for LXR’s distinctive approach to luxury, where place, design and experience are deeply connected. The property holds one of the most alluring positions along the city’s main coastal corridors and will introduce the independent spirit of LXR to the Australian market. We are proud to work with our partners to bring this exceptional destination to life and to continue expanding Hilton’s presence in one of the region’s most dynamic resort markets,” Hilton, Director Development Australasia, Tushar Raniga said.

The new hotel will include design nods to grand neoclassical architecture and Italian-inspired interiors, offering guests direct access to the Gold Coast Broadwater and proximity to key attractions including Marina Mirage, Hilton stated.

As the brand’s first Australian property, LXR is expected to deliver one-of-a-kind experiences with guests to expect bespoke service, captivating design, and immersive cultural experiences whilst staying at the hotel.

Globally, LXR Hotels and Resorts has 36 properties either operating or in the pipeline. The brand recently celebrated the openings of Cameo Beverly Hills and first entry into France with the opening of Sax Paris, and will open another highly anticipated property with Sandblu Santorini in Greece alongside The Den in India later this year. In the next three years, the brand will continue to expand across Asia Pacific in sought-after destinations such as Niseko, Phuket and Da Nang, building on the success of Roku  Kyoto  and Umana Bali.

“The arrival of LXR Hotels and Resorts in the Gold Coast marks an important step in the evolution of the luxury hotel offering in Australia. This hotel will meet the growing needs of a more discerning traveler who is seeking exceptional quality, while still wanting experiences that feel authentic, personal and deeply connected to place. LXR Hotels and Resorts is a collection of hotels that strikes the balance between refined luxury and local character, and the Gold Coast is the perfect example of this, a destination defined by energy, nature and adventure. Guests will discover a luxury experience that feels both elevated and unmistakably local, while embracing the sense of exploration that defines every LXR stay,” Hilton Vice President, Luxury Brands, Asia Pacific, Candice D’Cruz said.

“As the proud owner of the former Palazzo Versace Gold Coast, we are honored to partner with Hilton to introduce the first luxury brand, LXR Hotels and Resorts to Australia. This transformation represents a new chapter for the property — one that respectfully preserves the hotel’s iconic design heritage while elevating it through a comprehensive refurbishment. Together, we are committed to delivering a reimagined luxury experience that blends timeless elegance with a heightened sense of place, service and sophistication, setting a new benchmark for the Gold Coast” Islander Hotel Trading Pty Ltd  Director.  Li Xu said.

LXR Hotels and Resorts will join Hilton’s Curio Collection by Hilton and Tapestry Collection by Hilton portfolio of brands currently in Australia.