The five-star NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa will arrive in the Finnish capital in Q1 2024.
Brand switch
The property was due to be part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, but owners Ylva have now switched to NH Collection.
This will now be the second Nordic site for Minor’s brand, following the 2021 opening of NH Collection Copenhagen.
Conversion combination
The new Helsinki hotel will combine two of Helsinki’s most iconic and recognisable buildings: the Kaleva building (known as the Hotel Seurahuone) and the New Student House (home to the famous Hansa Hotel between 1924-1968), as well as a more recently constructed extension.
A full refurbishment of the two existing buildings and the construction of the third by Ylva are in the final stages, and when it launches next year NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa will offer 224 contemporary guestrooms a restaurant, a lobby bar, a rooftop bar with a spectacular terrace and 360º views of central Helsinki, extensive spa and fitness areas, and nine meeting and event spaces.
Market potential
Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International, commented: “We are pleased to announce our first property in Finland and consequently increase our presence in the Nordic countries.
“We believe this is a market with significant growth potential for Minor Hotels, so we are investing in iconic properties such as the upcoming NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa and the NH Collection Copenhagen.”
Expected growth
Leea Tolvas, CEO of Ylva, said: “We are very excited to bring a new operator to the market, known worldwide for its unique luxury destinations.
“Last year, 3.7 million overnight stays were recorded in Helsinki – a much higher figure than in 2021. The growth is expected to continue, and there is room in the market for high-quality hotels, especially for discerning tourists seeking luxury and premium experiences.”
NH plans
In Europe, NH Collection is lining up two Spanish projects: an upgrade of NH Collection Amistad Cordoba to five star status by Q4 2024, and converting an old cinema in Alicante to become the 61-key NH Collection Cine Ideal by Q2 2025.
Elsewhere, the brand plans to open NH Collection Chiang Mai Ping River in Thailand and NH Collection Luang Prabang in Laos, both in 2024, as well as a number of new properties in China during the year ahead.
