Bentel Earns 5-Star Rating for Doubletree Design Achievement
In an outstanding achievement, Bentel Associates International (BAI) the renowned design firm, has clinched a 5-star accolade at the African Property Awards under the category of Best New Hotel, Construction and Design. They got this award for their exceptional design work on the Doubletree by Hilton Addis Ababa Haya Hulet Hotel & Spa. This 4-star luxury hotel is set to open its doors in March 2026, and its innovative design sets it apart as a true gem in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Bentel: The Design Visionaries
Bentel Associates International, the driving force behind this architectural masterpiece, faced the extraordinary challenge of converting an existing high-rise concrete structure into a modern Doubletree by Hilton hotel with 159 keys. Their task was to craft a space that caters to the needs of both business travelers and families, all within a luxury urban environment. Bentel’s creative vision transformed this complex site into a sanctuary of elegance and functionality.
The Magnificent Facade
When approaching the hotel from Equatorial Guinea Street, one cannot help but be captivated by the stunning main facade. Bentel’s design brilliance is evident here, with the entire facade covered in glass and adorned with an elegant aluminum ribbon that gracefully divides the public and guestroom levels. Colorful fins also add a playful touch, emphasizing the verticality of the building and creating an unforgettable feature. Bentel’s design captures the essence of modern luxury, setting the hotel apart in its surroundings.
Prime Location, Striking Presence
Strategically located on the bustling Equatorial Guinea Street, a major artery in Addis Ababa, the hotel’s modern facade stands out proudly. Its prime position provides easy access, with a mere 20-minute drive from Addis Ababa International Airport and a 15-minute drive to the Adey Abeba National Stadium. Bentel’s design ensures that the hotel becomes a prominent landmark in this vibrant city.
Moreover, within the hotel’s structure, three basement levels have ingeniously crafted to house deliveries, back-of-house facilities, and staff requirements. In response to limited parking within the existing structure, Bentel’s team designed a new six-level parking facility, optimizing space and convenience for guests and staff alike.
The ground floor boasts two main entry points – one from Equatorial Guinea Street and another from the courtyard and parkade. BAI’s design expertise is evident in the expansive lobby lounge, the chic Drift bar, and a traditional Ethiopian coffee station. The first floor offers all-day dining, offices, and the main kitchen, while the second floor is home to a grand membership gym and opulent spa facilities.
Sustainability and Style
Working within the confines of an existing concrete structure, Bentel’s team harnessed their creativity to maximize the design’s potential. The main design features are concentrated on the southern facade, emphasizing the building’s verticality. Sustainability efforts include double glazing to reduce noise and heat infiltration, reducing the need for mechanical ventilation. Bentel’s design proves that style and eco-friendliness can go hand in hand.
Security is paramount, and Bentel’s design incorporates controlled access points, electronic access control for guests and staff, and comprehensive fire prevention strategies that feature both passive and active fire protection measures.
Environmental Stewardship
Bentel Associates International commitment to environmental stewardship shines through in the building. A dedicated water treatment plant ensures potable water for the hotel, while a specialized sewer treatment system safeguards the environment. Double glazing reduces noise and heat, enhancing energy conservation.
Additionally, the HVAC system, in line with global brand standards, employs a chilled water system and fresh air handling units to ensure the highest level of thermal comfort.
Bentel’s exceptional design work for the Doubletree by Hilton Addis Ababa Haya Hulet Hotel & Spa deserves every accolade it has received. The hotel’s innovative design, combined with Bental Associates International’s architectural expertise, promises a remarkable experience when the hotel opens its doors in March 2026. BAI has set a new standard for architectural excellence, and their vision will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark in the heart of Addis Ababa.
