5 minute read
Crowne Jewel Of Adelaide's North
from Hotel SA Feb 2025
by Boylen
Mawson Lakes, nearly 20km north of Adelaide’s CBD, might seem an odd location for a premium hotel.
But nothing about the rise of Crowne Plaza Adelaide Mawson Lakes has been left to chance.
Every detail of the IHG Hotels & Resorts’ eco-friendly, high-tech over $70m hotel has been meticulously planned, from the “wow factor” of its lobby offering breathtaking views of the Adelaide Hills through floorto-ceiling windows to the choice of smallest details like teaspoons in each of its 155 rooms.
The hotel’s position is equally as strategic. It is just over 20 minutes from the city, 25 minutes from Adelaide Airport and half an hour from the Barossa Valley which hosts its first AFL matches during April’s Gather Round.
The location is also in the heart of the Mawson Lakes business precinct. This thriving business hub is home to an ever-increasing number of local and international defence businesses, while perfectly primed to capitalise on its proximity to Technology Park, Parafield Airport and university campuses at Mawson Lakes and Roseworthy.
“Our vision is clear – to make a long-term investment in the community by bringing Northern Adelaide its first premium hotel and introducing a globally recognized brand. Mawson Lakes has long been a place of opportunity, and we are proud to play a role in shaping its next chapter." said general manager Faisal Sayed.
“Whilst northern Adelaide or the Salisbury region is considered the heart of the South Australian economy, there was nothing to serve them. So this hotel is an incredible addition to this side of the city.
“There is so many opportunities here. The future is incredibly bright given the indications from the current trend in terms of the demand we have, the curiosity from the neighbourhood, the pride everyone’s got and the feedback we have received.”
The locals now also have a local.
“There was only one bar in Mawson Lakes,” he said.
"Our Aviator Bar now will serve as a premium destination, offering an elevated experience for guests from northern Adelaide and beyond. With its unique setting overlooking Parafield Airport, it will provide both locals and visitors a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the stunning views."
“They can bring their families, they can sit at the bar and overlook the Adelaide Hills and they can see Parafield Airport where there are planes flying frequently.
“We’re really proud of what we have built.”
The official opening took place on February 10, two months after the hotel’s ‘soft’ opening which Faisal said was anything but that.
“Everyone wanted to come and trial it,” he said.
"We anticipated a gradual ramp-up, but from day one, we have been non-stop, with people eager to try our accommodation, as well as our food and beverage offerings at Ember & Vine, which features a modern Australian cuisine, and Aviator Bar, a nod to the classic style of bar offerings. We have also been amazed by the response to our state-of-the-art conference and event facilities. We are thrilled with the overwhelming demand for guests to stay and experience everything we have to offer."
CORPORATE FOCUS
Managing the unprecedented demand, while ensuring the highest level of service and adequate staffing, posed an immediate challenge for Faisal.
"Crowne Plaza Adelaide Mawson Lakes is set to attract a diverse mix of guests, including corporate travelers seeking premium accommodations close to key business hubs, leisure guests exploring northern Adelaide, and event attendees drawn to our state-of the-art conference and event facilities. With premium amenities, exceptional dining experiences, and a prime location, we aim to be the preferred destination for both local and international travelers."
The hotel offers over 442 square metres of dedicated event space across four areas in addition to a dedicated pre-function area that can accommodate more than 250 attendees, each offering state-of-the-art technology.
“It’s an incredibly special space for people to come together.”
Hence the naming of the Inparrila Atrium, taken from the Kaurna word meaning “a place to connect and meet for a purpose”. It is a lavish pre-function area with 17m high ceilings that services the conference rooms while acting as a unique space in its own right.
Leisure travelers haven’t been forgotten and have been encouraged to sample the sparkling new jewel of the north, with many promotional offers to choose.
I think the biggest advantage is the continuity, operational stability, and a seamless transition, leveraging deep knowledge of the hotel, team, and market. This leads to stronger team culture, better guest experiences, and long-term success.
ENVIRONMENTAL LEADERSHIP
But whether guests stay for business or pleasure, this fully integrated smart hotel promises they’ll check out without leaving a lasting footprint on the environment.
“Our vision is be one of the most sustainable, eco-friendly hotels in South Australia,” Faisal said.
“With a goal that the whole hotel will be run on green energy.
"Our guests are increasingly eco-conscious, and we are committed to meeting their expectations responsibly.
We strive to be future-ready while challenging the status quo to create meaningful, sustainable change."
“Our thinking is futuristic.
“It needs to be appealing to the consumer of today and future.”
"The hotel has embedded industry best practices and is leveraging technology to enhance eco-friendly operations, minimizing its carbon footprint while promoting sustainability."
The hotel is also in the process of installing 100kW solar panels on its roof. Even more remarkably, that roof may also play host to its own beehive – its produce to be offered as a breakfast spread with toast and coffee.
“We are working with a local beehive management company. They will build the whole ecostructure for us and once every two to three months, they will collect the honey.”
