City Lodge Hotels has completed a full refurbishment of Courtyard Hotel Gqeberha, the latest in a series of property upgrades the company has rolled out over the past few years as it continues to reinvest in its portfolio of 56 hotels.

The refurbishment marks the next step in the evolution of this four-star seafront hotel, bringing a design-led elegance that strengthens its appeal to business, leisure and bleisure travellers. Work began in July 2025 and wrapped up in April 2025, followed by a couple of months of snagging, all overseen by the hotel’s general manager, Erich Oberhauser.

Located along the coastline with spectacular views across Algoa Bay, and with Shark Rock Pier forming part of its distinctive seaside outlook, the hotel's new look is built around the colours of the landscape, particularly those moments when the setting sun turns the horizon into shades of pink and coral against a deep blue sky.

The redesign of the hotel, restaurant, 91 rooms (80 studios and 11 one-bedroom suites – interleading rooms available), conferencing space and boardroom, and public spaces has been informed by the property’s coastal setting. Coral accents bring warmth, custom rugs in deep blue and sandy tones ground the rooms, and rich timber finishes add another layer of comfort, creating rooms that feel calm and cocooning.

"Today's guest seeks an experience that feels individual, immersive and connected to its surroundings," explains Louise Nogueira Dracopoulos of Oniro Studios, the group’s interior designer. "Rather than interpreting the ocean literally, these colours and contrasts became the foundation of the interior palette."

"The intention was to create rooms that transition effortlessly between retreat and functionality," adds Dracopoulos. "A guest should be able to wake to the salty ocean air and feel connected to the destination, while still enjoying the comfort and familiarity associated with the Courtyard brand."

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