Locke to Open it’s First Aparthotel in Dublin, Zanzibar Locke, Ha’penny Bridge
Main Photo: The new Zanzibar Locke aparthotel just opened
Date: December 2020
Location: Ha’penny Bridge, Dublin, Ireland
Name: Zanzibar Locke
No. of Keys: 160 studios and one-bedroom apartments
Seller: The site formerly the site of infamous noughties’ hotspot Zanzibar Nightclub – which inspired the aparthotel’s name – the Georgian building has been sensitively restored and developed by Dublin-based interior design studio O’Donnell O’Neill Design and C+W O’Brien Architects.
Buyer: Hospitality brand Locke will open its first location outside of the UK, Zanzibar Locke, in the heart of Dublin’s city centre overlooking the Ha’penny Bridge on 11th December. With five UK locations, Locke is leading the way in a new hybrid home-meets-hotel concept that combines the space and comfort of home with the experience and thoughtful design of a boutique hotel.
“Locke’s forward-thinking aparthotel concept has shown resilience throughout the pandemic in the UK – and we’re excited to bring its unique proposition to the Dublin market. In an exceptionally challenging year for Irish hospitality, we are delighted to round off 2020 with the opening of Zanzibar Locke; and it is with great thanks to our local partners for their support, which has enabled us to achieve this.” – Osgur Ó Ciardha, Country General Manager.
From its interiors to music playlists, the brand has worked extensively with Irish partners and suppliers to create Zanzibar Locke; and in doing so, aims to build a unique, inclusive environment that is deeply embedded in the social fabric of its neighbourhood.
Situated on Ormond Quay, with views overlooking the River Liffey, Zanzibar Locke draws on its rich architectural heritage to inform its design. The Georgian building has been sensitively restored and developed. Working with local contractors, joiners and artists, O’Donnell O’Neill and C+W O’Brien worked hard to retain the original character of the building, while combining the stylish design, contemporary fittings and custom furniture synonymous with Locke.
The aparthotel will also house BARAZA, which will be operated by Dublin foodie favourites NolaClan (House Dublin, 9 Below and Xico). Located on the mezzanine floor, BARAZA will serve coffee and light bites from 7am, before transitioning into a lively restaurant serving seasonal small plates and craft cocktails from 4pm. During its opening period, it will also feature a pop-up from grilled cheese connoisseurs, Griolladh.
“We’re excited to partner with Locke on its food and drink offering in Dublin, and bring our new restaurant and bar concept, BARAZA, to Zanzibar Locke. Our ambition is to create an all-day dining experience in a vibrant, beautiful environment that locals and travellers alike can enjoy”. – Alan Clancy, Founder, NolaClan.
Locke aims to liberate guests from the confines of the traditional hotel room by designing spaces that are made to be lived in. Each of Zanzibar Locke’s 160 studio apartments come equipped with fully fitted kitchens and living space; as well as access to activated social areas, original food and drink offerings and a locally-led cultural programme. Generously-sized rooms create a sense of freedom unique to the Irish market, where guests can enjoy the option of a short stay in a City Studio (average 25sqm) or retreat to a larger premium River Suite (average 40sqm) for a long-term stay.
As we continue to navigate travel over the coming months, Locke’s self-contained studio apartments provide safe, clean, and flexible accommodation for business and leisure travellers, as well as short-term residents.
THPT Comment: Locke, a brand within edyn, that used to be called SACO! Good to see this brand expansion into Ireland, with a second to follow, located behind the 3Arena in the heart of the docklands, Beckett Locke in February 2021.
First Seen: Serviced Apartment News
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