Accor and Kievskaya Ploshchad Group of Companies have announced the signing of the first Raffles hotel in Russia, paving the way for development of a key site overlooking Moscow’s Red Square.

The forthcoming flagship hotel, which is to be managed by Raffles Hotels & Resorts, will be located next to the Kremlin right at the very heart of Moscow. The property is expected to open in 2022.

A privileged setting

Raffles Moscow is now under development across a 64,000 sq m urban oasis at the point that Zaryadye Park meets the historic Varvarka Street and Slavyanskaya Square. From here, guests will be able to enjoy memorable views across Red Square and the Kremlin ensemble, including the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed.

In line with the Raffles brand’s principles and corresponding with Kievskaya Ploshchad Group of Companies’ priorities, the hotel’s design and development efforts will focus on preserving the historic character of the surrounding facades. Inside, the property promises to embody the hallmarks of sophistication and timeless ambience, combining elements such as innovative cuisine, art and culture, that Raffles prides itself on.

“We bring to life innovative projects and create opportunities for people to work, develop and rest in high-quality environments,” said God Nisanov, CEO of Kievskaya Ploshchad Group of Companies. “Therefore, Kievskaya Ploshchad is proud to present a multifaceted hotel and residential complex in historical Varvarka Street – a new destination icon of hospitality.

“Raffles Moscow has been developed to sensitively respect the recommendations of the Ministry of Culture and in close cooperation with the Department of Cultural Legacy of Moscow. Leading upscale designers and creative architects of the world have collaborated to bring all elements of the project together.

“This is a unique project in terms of the architectural value and the level of personalised service that will be delivered together with Accor and its acclaimed Raffles brand. We are very excited to move the project forward with our partners and firmly believe this iconic address will significantly increase the international attractiveness of Moscow in the tourism industry.”

“Announcing the arrival of the iconic Raffles brand in Russia is an extraordinary moment for Accor,” added Sebastien Bazin, chairman and chief executive office of Accor. “The hotel’s unique location and legendary Raffles service will make it one of the most exciting openings of 2022 for Accor. It is a privilege to be working in partnership with Kievskaya Ploshchad Group of Companies and we look forward to bringing this new jewel to life.”

A historic location allied to a luxurious offering

The landmark hotel will comprise 153 keys over nine floors. These will include 20 two-bedroom suites, 19 junior suites and two presidential suites, which both feature two bedrooms and an outdoor terrace. All rooms will command views over the city – and four will have exclusive access to the green outdoor terrace of the hotel’s courtyard.

Raffles Moscow will feature a grand entrance with a historic arch, along with a mosaic courtyard, a spa with thermal zones, a fitness centre, a Russian bath, beauty-salon services and a 25-metre pool, as well as a shopping gallery.

The culinary offering is to include five haute-dining restaurants, including three signature chef restaurants and a Ladurée bakery by famous Russian restaurateur Alexander Rappoport. Notably, the hotel will also house a legendary Raffles Long Bar.

On top of this, Raffles Moscow plans to include ample space for events, from a 730 sq m Grand Ballroom to four smaller meeting rooms and an outdoor event area.

The hotel, which is being brought to life by British design studio Winch in collaboration with Accor’s luxury design team, is expected to open in the second half of 2022.

According to the TOPHOTELCONSTRUCTION online database, 63 hotel projects are currently in the pipeline across Russia: