London-based design practice Areen Hospitality has been appointed to undertake the interior design for what will be Ibadan’s first international four-star hotel.

Located in the third largest metropolitan area in Nigeria, after Lagos and Kano, the hotel is anticipated to be an important business hub for the city, with a world class offering that puts Ibadan on the international map.

Working with the Lagos-based developer, Hometel, Areen’s design will create a contemporary business and leisure accommodation package that supports the growing aspirations of the area.

The 150 key hotel will feature a state-of-the-art business and conference centre, alongside high-end leisure amenities including a luxury health club and pool.

Talks are currently underway with a major international operator and the project is expected to open its doors to the public mid-2014.

The project represents Areen’s second venture into the West African sector, alongside their current work on the Hilton Freetown Cape Sierra in Sierra Leone, which is also due to open in 2014.

Speaking at the Africa Hotel Investment Forum in Nairobi, Andrew Linwood, head of Areen Hospitality commented: “We recognise the vast potential in the African market which is seeing rapid growth and gaining global attention.

“We are delighted to be appointed to our second project in the region and feel that this new deal demonstrates Areen Hospitality’s commitment to this emerging market.

“This is an exciting period for Areen as we look to continue the expansion of our operations in Nigeria and throughout Africa.”