The Silo

The Biden family, owners of The Royal Portfolio, picked an unlikely spot for their newest addition. Located in an 'up and coming' (read industrial) corner of Cape Town's busy working port, it wasn't an obvious choice. Nor was the conversion of a 20th-century grain mill; yet it was the talk of the town in the build-up to its opening. Housing the Zeitz MOCAA gallery, it is set to become what the TATE is in London, for contemporary African art. A creative hub in the truest sense, they even roped in Thomas Heatherwick, described as "The Leonardo da Vinci of our times" and the man who envisioned their distinguishing "pillowed glazing panels": enormous floor-to-ceiling windows which bathe the whole hotel in sparkling light. Colour, frivolity, and unbridled luxury abound, each of its rooms is decorated by co-owner and "chief shopper" (by her husband) Liz Biden. Her characteristic and vibrant style does not disappoint. Each room is awash with silks and velvets in deep purples, bottle greens, ice blues, sunshine yellows and mandarin orange. Enjoy drinks up on the roof terrace (where you'll also find the pool) as well as sunset overlooking Table Mountain. The Granary Café is set to bring a new level of sophistication to Cape Town's afternoon teas whilst Willaston Bar adds some fun into the drinks menu and only serves the best of Cape Town's superlative local produce. A breathtaking hotel, with a price tag to match, The Silo defies all odds.