Marriott International has revealed plans to launch its ever-popular Aloft Hotels brand in Ireland through a franchise agreement with Blackpitts Hospitality.

Slated to open in the spring of 2018, Aloft Dublin City will mark the tech-forward brand’s debut in the Irish capital, and will introduce an exciting accommodation option in Dublin’s historic ‘Liberties’ quarter.

Aloft Dublin City will be operated by Dublin-based Pembroke Hospitality, a leading provider of advisory services and hotel management to the hospitality industry.

“We are delighted to partner with Blackpitts Hospitality on this venture and share their confidence that the entry of our cutting-edge Aloft Hotels brand will invigorate the city’s hospitality landscape” said Even Frydenberg, chief operations officer, Marriott International, Europe.

“With its inimitable style and renowned social scene, Dublin is a fitting setting for the affordable, stylish and vibrant Aloft Hotels.”

The arrival of Aloft Dublin City marks a milestone in the rejuvenation of this city-centre neighbourhood, once the site of the tannery and leather trade, and now a thriving blend of residential and commercial businesses.

The area is also home to some of Ireland’s top visitor attractions, including the Guinness Storehouse Museum and the country’s largest church, St Patrick’s Cathedral, with Dublin’s city centre and its multitude of cultural and historical attractions also close-by.

Delivering urban-influenced design and an energetic guest experience, the eight-storey Aloft Dublin City will offer 202 loft-like guest rooms with ultra-comfortable plush platform beds, large walk-in showers and complimentary Bliss amenities.

Designed with the needs of the savvy next-generation traveller in mind, the hotel will offer SPG Keyless - the hospitality industry’s first truly keyless entry system that enables guests to use their smartphone or Apple watch as a room key.

“This market debut underscores our strategic commitment to accelerate the Aloft Hotels brand in key destinations such as Dublin,” said Carlton Ervin, Marriott International chief development officer, Europe.

“The continued draw of Aloft’s stylish, yet keenly-priced accommodation together with its suitability and adaptability for multiple locations, means we are seeing an ever-increasing demand among our partners for its distinctive offer.”

Aloft Dublin City will complement Marriott International’s existing Irish portfolio, comprising four hotels operating under the Autograph Collection, Renaissance Hotels, Sheraton and Westin brands respectively.