micenet wanted to understand more about the family that had the vision to erect The Calile, an urban resort in this location, with its brutalist yet breezy architectural style; and to surround it with a group of designer retailers. They have effectively created a sophisticated and stylish ecosystem that’s become a new destination for locals and interstate visitors even before The Calile started to hit the global best of list.
So why did the family decide to enter the hospitality business?
”Our family has been actively working to develop James Street as a premier retail and lifestyle destination since 2000. It became clear over time, that a hotel would be a desirable and complimentary addition to the mix. The hotel concept supports fine-grain retail to activate street frontages and integrates comprehensive restaurants and function rooms within the facility. The hotel also fuels the night-time economy and visiting guests are invited to venture out to discover what the wider precinct has to offer,” he said.
And was there a particular philosophy at the heart of the design and development of the Calile?
“We were determined to confidently deliver a design suited to Brisbane’s climate. Local architects – Richards & Spence – were engaged in a design-led process to challenge industry norms and deliver a carefully curated outcome suited to the location and neighbourhood.”
In terms of business events and corporate business, 20 per cent of The Calile’s business in Brisbane is corporate rooms, while events make up six per cent of their business.
“Suffice to say that corporate business is extremely valuable to the Brisbane operation to assist in bolstering the mid-week occupancy,” said Malouf.
And with the announcement that the family is to build another Calile hotel in Noosa (name to be advised), micenet wondered whether it would follow Brisbane’s lead or how it might differ.
“We have re-engaged the design team for Noosa. The same design-led principles will be applied to that project, meaning the design will be suited to its environs and local context. We aren’t seeking to replicate the Brisbane design, but some successful aspects will serve as a common thread to give clue of the association between the properties,” said Malouf.
And the team believes that Noosa will not only attract a similar business mix to the Sunshine Coast but will grow corporate demand with the new development.
Malouf’s Noosa hotel due in 2028 has 135 rooms, 29 suites and four three-bedroom villas, alongside a 50m pool – the centre of activity at The Calile’s property in Brisbane – a smaller pool, conference and event space, plus a retail and dining precinct. It will be the first five-star hotel to be built in Noosa in decades. It is also located away from Hastings Street in a quiet spot adjacent to the Noosa River with ferry access into town for guests.
“While Noosa isn’t traditionally recognised as a corporate destination, we nevertheless hope to attract corporate events and travellers seeking to conduct business in the stunning natural backdrop that Noosa is famous for,” Malouf said.
