Labotessa, a 17th-century congregational church now turned lifestyle hotel, will open in Cape Town in August 2019. The intimate, seven-roomed property is one of the oldest buildings in South Africa and the debut project in the Labotessa portfolio by first-time hoteliers Jan Fourie and Johan du Plessis.
The South African owners and founders were inspired by the opportunity to meld heritage and old-world elegance with visionary new world design.
"We are delighted to begin our foray into hotel ownership with one of South Africa's oldest buildings, which has been a true testament to the country’s rich history and heritage," says du Plessis. "Labotessa is a culmination of our affinity for exceptional design, relaxed hospitality, and our connection to the city of Cape Town."
Hotel features
Situated in a restored national monument structure in the heart of the city, Labotessa is the only hotel on historic Church Square. This landmark lifestyle property blends luxury and personal service with the independence of residential living. Each of the hotel’s seven spacious suites features private elevator access, a balcony and sweeping views of the city, Lion’s Head and Table Mountain.
On the ground floor, guests and locals can enjoy the outpost of Starling’s, a local cafe utilising organic and ethically sourced ingredients. The cafe will spill out onto the square and sits adjacent to the hotel’s Diptyque boutique. All the hotel’s suites will carry the Diptyque range of toiletries.
From the ground floor, an antique balustrade guides guests to the reception area on the mezzanine level, with views of the property’s fireplace, original chandelier and plush velvet armchairs.
The founders conceptualised every design element in the hotel to evoke 17th-century grandeur fused with a relaxed atmosphere.
Commissioned works by local artists and antique furniture weave a narrative inspired by the city’s European influences. Each guest room is unique in its design and configuration.
Labotessa is also home to one of Cape Town’s largest penthouse suites:
The Governor Suite: The three-bedroom Governor Suite is named after Simon Van der Stel, the first Governor of the Cape. At 300 square metres in size, the suite spans two floors with views of Church Square, Signal Hill, and Table Mountain.
Six Signature Suites: Accessible via private elevator from the hotel’s mezzanine level, the Signature Suites feature living and sleeping areas separated by glass panelling. A palette of petrol blues, warm taupe and burnt orange is complemented by Persian rugs dotted throughout. High ceilings and French oak floors emphasise the spaciousness of each 65 square-metre room, and en suite bathrooms feature blue subway tiles and Calacatta marble.
