A blend of luxury and Namibian essence
Hilton Windhoek continues to set the benchmark for premium accommodation in Namibia. We sat down with Chief Operations Officer Graham Howard to delve into the essence of Hilton Windhoek and what makes it a standout destination for both business and leisure travelers.
Nestled in the heart of Windhoek, the Hilton Hotel stands as a symbol of luxury, comfort, and local authenticity. As one of the city’s premier hospitality establishments, it seamlessly blends Hilton’s global brand standards with distinct Namibian elements. My.na Properties sat down with Hilton Windhoek’s Chief Operations Officer, Graham Howard, to discuss the hotel's unique interior, innovative features, and commitment to sustainability.
A Legacy of excellence
Hilton Hotels International, founded in Texas in 1919, has since grown into a globally recognised brand. In 2007, Namibia sought to bring an international hotel chain into the country, ultimately choosing Hilton. The goal, however, was to create more than just another global franchise; it had to reflect Namibia’s culture and landscape.
“When we planned Hilton Windhoek, we wanted it to be distinctly Namibian,” Howard explained. “We worked with interior designers from California while ensuring that the final concept paid homage to Namibia’s natural beauty.”
Setting the hotel apart
The hotel’s design and interior choices make it a standout. “If you look around, you’ll see lots of earthy tones which are beige and brown and are inspired by Namibia’s natural landscapes,” Howard said. Unlike other Hilton properties worldwide, Windhoek’s branch embraces local influences in its artwork and décor.
“From dune photography to seascapes, every piece of artwork in the hotel reflects Namibia. We wanted guests to feel a connection to the country from the moment they step inside,” he added.
The hotel’s distinctive architecture also sets it apart. “As you drive down Sam Nujoma Drive, the Hilton tower is one of the first things you notice,” Howard pointed out. Inside, subtle design elements enhance the experience from glass chandelier bulbs that resemble rain to a mosaic pattern symbolising raindrops on desert sand.
Balancing aesthetics and functionality
Creating a world-class hotel requires balancing beauty with practicality. “We designed the Hilton Windhoek around what the customer needs,” Howard noted. “At the end of the day, the customer is paying the bill, so we ensure that every aspect, from room sizes to services meets their expectations.”
The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from standard rooms of 38-42 square metres to junior suites, diplomatic suites, and a presidential suite. “The majority of our guests are business travellers, so we prioritise spacious and comfortable rooms at different price points,” he added.
Keeping up with global trends
To remain relevant to international travellers, Hilton Windhoek stays updated with the latest industry innovations. “We are part of the Hilton Honours loyalty programme, which ensures we meet global standards. We also undergo annual quality assurance checks to stay aligned with international trends,” Howard explained.
One upcoming feature is digital check-in. “In the future, guests will be able to check in via their smartphones, access their rooms using mobile keys, and activate room features digitally, while this is already common in North America, we are preparing to introduce it to Namibia,” Howard said.
Operating in a country with limited natural resources, Hilton Windhoek integrates sustainability into its operations. “We are investing in solar energy for both Hilton Windhoek and Hilton Garden Inn,” Howard shared. “Given Namibia’s 364 days of sunshine, solar power is an obvious choice.”
While urban hotels face challenges in large-scale recycling, Hilton Windhoek strives to adopt sustainable practices where possible. “Out in the rural areas, lodges can do more in terms of recycling, but in a city environment, we must find innovative solutions,” he said.
Wellness and leisure
Recognising the growing demand for wellness, Hilton Windhoek offers a fully equipped gym and a spa for massages and beauty treatments. “Wellness is a key aspect of hospitality today, and we ensure our guests have access to relaxation and rejuvenation services,” Howard said.
A taste of Namibia
Food is another way Hilton Windhoek immerses guests in local culture. “We incorporate Namibian cuisine into our themed evenings and events,” Howard stated. “International travellers should not just visit Namibia, they should taste it too.” The hotel also collaborates with local artists for events. “We host Namibian artists and performers as part of our commitment to promoting local talent,” he said.
With constant updates from Hilton International, the Windhoek branch continues to evolve. “We are always integrating new technologies and refining our guest experience,” Howard said. “But one thing will remain the same which is our commitment to offering a world-class stay infused with Namibian authenticity.”
Whether for business or leisure, Hilton Windhoek provides a seamless blend of comfort, culture, and cutting-edge hospitality. With its focus on sustainability, innovation, and local influence, it remains a landmark in Namibia’s growing tourism industry.
A Legacy of excellence
Hilton Hotels International, founded in Texas in 1919, has since grown into a globally recognised brand. In 2007, Namibia sought to bring an international hotel chain into the country, ultimately choosing Hilton. The goal, however, was to create more than just another global franchise; it had to reflect Namibia’s culture and landscape.
“When we planned Hilton Windhoek, we wanted it to be distinctly Namibian,” Howard explained. “We worked with interior designers from California while ensuring that the final concept paid homage to Namibia’s natural beauty.”
Setting the hotel apart
The hotel’s design and interior choices make it a standout. “If you look around, you’ll see lots of earthy tones which are beige and brown and are inspired by Namibia’s natural landscapes,” Howard said. Unlike other Hilton properties worldwide, Windhoek’s branch embraces local influences in its artwork and décor.
“From dune photography to seascapes, every piece of artwork in the hotel reflects Namibia. We wanted guests to feel a connection to the country from the moment they step inside,” he added.
The hotel’s distinctive architecture also sets it apart. “As you drive down Sam Nujoma Drive, the Hilton tower is one of the first things you notice,” Howard pointed out. Inside, subtle design elements enhance the experience from glass chandelier bulbs that resemble rain to a mosaic pattern symbolising raindrops on desert sand.
Balancing aesthetics and functionality
Creating a world-class hotel requires balancing beauty with practicality. “We designed the Hilton Windhoek around what the customer needs,” Howard noted. “At the end of the day, the customer is paying the bill, so we ensure that every aspect, from room sizes to services meets their expectations.”
The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from standard rooms of 38-42 square metres to junior suites, diplomatic suites, and a presidential suite. “The majority of our guests are business travellers, so we prioritise spacious and comfortable rooms at different price points,” he added.
Keeping up with global trends
To remain relevant to international travellers, Hilton Windhoek stays updated with the latest industry innovations. “We are part of the Hilton Honours loyalty programme, which ensures we meet global standards. We also undergo annual quality assurance checks to stay aligned with international trends,” Howard explained.
One upcoming feature is digital check-in. “In the future, guests will be able to check in via their smartphones, access their rooms using mobile keys, and activate room features digitally, while this is already common in North America, we are preparing to introduce it to Namibia,” Howard said.
Operating in a country with limited natural resources, Hilton Windhoek integrates sustainability into its operations. “We are investing in solar energy for both Hilton Windhoek and Hilton Garden Inn,” Howard shared. “Given Namibia’s 364 days of sunshine, solar power is an obvious choice.”
While urban hotels face challenges in large-scale recycling, Hilton Windhoek strives to adopt sustainable practices where possible. “Out in the rural areas, lodges can do more in terms of recycling, but in a city environment, we must find innovative solutions,” he said.
Wellness and leisure
Recognising the growing demand for wellness, Hilton Windhoek offers a fully equipped gym and a spa for massages and beauty treatments. “Wellness is a key aspect of hospitality today, and we ensure our guests have access to relaxation and rejuvenation services,” Howard said.
A taste of Namibia
Food is another way Hilton Windhoek immerses guests in local culture. “We incorporate Namibian cuisine into our themed evenings and events,” Howard stated. “International travellers should not just visit Namibia, they should taste it too.” The hotel also collaborates with local artists for events. “We host Namibian artists and performers as part of our commitment to promoting local talent,” he said.
With constant updates from Hilton International, the Windhoek branch continues to evolve. “We are always integrating new technologies and refining our guest experience,” Howard said. “But one thing will remain the same which is our commitment to offering a world-class stay infused with Namibian authenticity.”
Whether for business or leisure, Hilton Windhoek provides a seamless blend of comfort, culture, and cutting-edge hospitality. With its focus on sustainability, innovation, and local influence, it remains a landmark in Namibia’s growing tourism industry.
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