After months of anticipation and Covid-related delays, GrandWest Casino’s Grand Hotel has unveiled the first milestone of its R30-million renovation: a sparkling new Salon Privé, lounge, and dining area designed to delight the senses.

GrandWest General Manager Mervyn Naidoo said, “The renovation of our Union Castle dining room and Salon Privé has been a long time in the planning. It was interrupted by Covid, but became a priority when the Grand Hotel expanded to over double its size. But we wanted more than just additional space, we wanted an experience for our guests and our interior design specialists have achieved just that.

”The redesign was led by David Muirhead & Associates, renowned for five-star hotels, luxury lodges, and exclusive guesthouses.

“Fortunately, there was so much already in place that we could work with,” said David Muirhead.

“The bones were there. The structure was good, but the partitioning between areas was more suited to 2000 when GrandWest was built.”

By removing dividing walls, the team created a seamless flow between the Union Castle dining room and the new Privé, centred around a large bar accessible from both sides. The moody nautical blue panelling and gold accents honour Cape Town’s maritime past, while plush gold-and-blue chairs add comfort to style.

The Privé lounge offers velvety couches, bold fabric prints, blush-pink bar stools, and a marble bar, all highlighted by a dramatic recycled-glass chandelier. Muirhead said the aim was to “create a bold, colourful, glamourous, elegant, boutique-style experience, but a vibrant one that appeals to all the senses.

”Gaming is at the heart of GrandWest, and the new Salon Privé is a playground for enthusiasts and high-rollers alike. It features 144 slot machines (with more to come), 17 Baccarat, Blackjack, Poker and Roulette tables, and curved LED screens custom-made for GrandWest. For high-stakes players, the Captain’s Cabin and Private Room offer discretion, luxury, and opulent décor, including a custom dragon chandelier.

Even beginners can join the fun through GrandWest’s Learn-to-Play sessions, where friendly dealers guide guests through Roulette, Blackjack and Poker. Players can ask questions freely –  something impossible at a live table where the chips are flying and learn strategies while understanding the history behind each game. Roulette fans discover the difference between American and European wheels, Blackjack players learn when to hit or stand, and Poker novices are taught how to “hold ’em” or “fold ’em.”

The sessions combine fun with responsible gaming, giving everyone a chance to build confidence before stepping onto the main floor. With its glamorous makeover and engaging experiences for all types of guests, GrandWest’s Grand Hotel Privé is more than a renovation it’s a full sensory adventure.

From decadent décor to high-stakes tables and learning opportunities for beginners, the new space promises something for everyone.

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