Following the launch of Courtyard by Marriott’s new European design concept at Courtyard Aberdeen Airport Hotel last year, Marriott International has announced plans to open a second Courtyard branded hotel in Scotland in early 2016.

Located in the centre of Edinburgh, Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh Hotel will offer business and leisure travellers a refreshing hotel experience with contemporary and efficient design to ensure convenience and productivity throughout the entire guest stay.

The hotel will occupy a listed building comprised of three adjoining Georgian townhouses, one of which was home to Robert Stevenson, a famous Scottish civil engineer and the grandfather of Robert Louis Stevenson, the author of the 1881 novel “Treasure Island”. This historic building and its impressive façade will finally be restored after many years of standing empty. Behind this will sit a new building to accommodate the rest of the hotel.

The hotel’s 240 comfortable and stylish guest rooms will feature an energising Mediterranean colour palette, locally inspired furnishings and multiple, accessible power outlets making plugging in easy.  Guests will be able to enjoy facilities including an all-day Bistro Restaurant, fitness centre and a 49 square foot multi-functional meeting room with the latest technology. Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel will ensure that guests can stay connected whilst working and relaxing in any of the hotel’s flexible open-plan public spaces.

Commenting on the announcement, Amy McPherson, President and Managing Director for Marriott International in Europe, said: “We are excited to announce the launch of Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh and continue to expand the presence of the brand in Scotland. We’re proud to have developed an innovative hotel design that meets the needs of today’s traveller and to bring this offering to this vibrant and thriving city.”

Developed in association with property developer and investment company The Chris Stewart Group (CSG), Courtyard Edinburgh Hotel will be an ideal base from where to explore Edinburgh’s landmarks and attractions. From its position on Baxter’s Place in an Edinburgh New Town Conservation Area and World Heritage Site, the Edinburgh Playhouse theatre, Calton Hill, Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street, the Royal Mile and numerous museums, theatres and art galleries are just a short walk away.

Chris Stewart, CEO of CSG, which specialises in complex transformational city centre projects said: “Baxter’s Place is a magnificent terrace and the perfect location for a high calibre hotel. We have worked hard to ensure that this development not only safeguards the future of these historic buildings, but also provides a contemporary and innovative hotel that adds to the current provision.

“As a business, our focus is very much on giving heritage buildings a viable and dynamic future and I am delighted that Marriott International shares that vision and we are now ready to start this project.”

Marriott International currently offers four hotels in and around the city and Courtyard Edinburgh will join a portfolio which comprises Residence Inn Edinburgh in the city centre, Autograph Collection’s The Glasshouse, Edinburgh Marriott Hotel located near the airport, and Dalmahoy Marriott Hotel & Country Club.