Adelaide’s landmark GPO building bustling once again as Marriott hotel opens

by Ruth Hogan

Marriott International has opened its first Marriott Hotel in Adelaide, marking its 600th property in the Asia Pacific region, excluding China.

The 285-room Adelaide Marriott Hotel is set within the General Post Office (GPO) building – a local landmark that dates back more than 150 years – located on the corner of King William and Franklin Streets in the CBD.

“With the opening of Adelaide Marriott Hotel, we continue to live our legacy of wonderful hospitality and build momentum for the brand’s evolution and appeal,” said Marriott International, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Area Vice President, Jason Nuell.

“Located in the iconic GPO building, this hotel will become a true flagship property for Marriott Hotels as we continue to deliver contemporary design and elevated guest experiences.”

“With spaces to connect, work, or unwind, coupled with heartfelt service true to the brand’s promise, we aim to make Adelaide a must-see destination for domestic and international travelers alike.”

Behind the freestone façade of the original postal headquarters, a modern tower rises 14-storeys high.

The design narrative, distinctly ‘Adelaide’ in style, honours the history of the GPO and the pioneer and Postmaster General, Sir Charles Todd, as well as the city’s rich history, art and culture.

Local materials such as sandstone and corrugated iron have been incorporated in an abstract form, while South Australia’s wine region is reflected in the colours of the furniture, art, and custom carpet.

Specially commissioned artwork throughout includes vast wall sculptures in shimmering copper, archival photographs and aerial imagery, as well as culturally significant pieces by First Nations artists of the APY Arts Centre Collective in the state’s far north.

Among the 285 guest rooms are 11 spacious suites and a 145sqm Presidential Suite, all offering views of the Adelaide city skyline or the leafy grounds of Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga.

The hotel features three dining outlets: the Greatroom, at the heart of the hotel; Penny Blue, offering a modern Australian dining experience in a nostalgic setting, and a vibrant laneway bar Exchange Lane, which serves coffee in the mornings and later transforms into an evening bar serving up wine, cocktails and shared dishes.

The hotel also features a fitness studio, 18-metre indoor swimming pool, and more than 762sqm of meeting and event space, including a vast 295sqm ballroom and a 24/7 M Club lounge available to Elite Marriott Bonvoy Members and guests staying on executive floors.

“Our prime city location makes Adelaide Marriott Hotel the perfect launching pad for interstate and overseas visitors to tap into all that the destination has to offer,” said Adelaide Marriott Hotel General Manager, Paul Gallop.

“From premier cultural, sporting, culinary, and business events, to exploring world-renowned wine regions, Adelaide is booming.

“We are excited to open this milestone hotel, the first Marriott Hotel in South Australia, and look forward to welcoming our guests to experience our heartfelt service and wonderful hospitality.

“By celebrating the stories of [Sir Charles Todd], as well as the GPO and its soaring Clock Tower, through artworks, our food and beverage offering, and the names given to our many suites, dining spaces, and function rooms – we’ve woven a warm sense of nostalgia throughout these stunning new surroundings that will make every visit memorable.”

 

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