Crystalbrook Collection’s First South Australian Hotel Tops Out

Progress has been driven by more than fifty trade subcontractors and suppliers engaged by BESIX Watpac, collectively employing a strong local workforce of 590 people to date. With the structure now complete, the project’s focus is now transitioning to façade installation and detailed interior fit-out.   

Mark Baker, CEO of BESIX Watpac, reinforced the collaborative effort behind the build: “Our construction of Crystalbrook Sam builds on our 15-year legacy in Adelaide and complements our portfolio of work delivered across the region. Our ability to drive productivity through collaboration, streamlined processes and use of digital construction tools will play a major part in ensuring the hotel comes to market as planned. Furthermore, with our proven track record in the high-end hotel market, BESIX Watpac will deliver the exceptional finish that defines Crystalbrook Hotels.” 

Once complete, the hotel will bring a new expression of contemporary luxury to the city through design-led accommodation, signature dining and elevated wellness experiences. It will feature 196 rooms and suites, along with a standout Level 12 restaurant with sweeping panoramic views of the CBD and out to the Adelaide Hills. The 120-seat venue with private dining space, is poised to become a new highlight of Adelaide’s dining scene, showcasing South Australian produce through an elevated, modern lens. 

The hotel will also introduce Eléme Day Spa to Adelaide for the first time, sitting alongside a gym, sauna, and swimming pool. Additional amenities a ground-floor café and bar and flexible meeting and events spaces for over 100 attendees.  

Geoff York, CEO of Crystalbrook Collection, said: “Topping out brings us another step closer to opening Crystalbrook’s first hotel in South Australia. Adelaide’s hospitality scene is evolving with enormous energy, and we’re excited to contribute to that momentum with a hotel that brings Crystalbrook’s forward-thinking luxury to the city for the first time. Crystalbrook Sam is taking shape beautifully, and we’re looking forward to revealing more of the experience as we move toward opening in late 2026.” 

Chris Samaras, Managing Director of Samaras Group, added that reaching this milestone is a proud achievement for everyone involved: “Seeing Crystalbrook Sam make its mark on the Adelaide skyline is incredibly rewarding for our team. As our first hotel project, this milestone holds real significance as seeing Crystalbrook Sam become a part of the city’s fabric is not just a business milestone - it’s a fulfillment of our commitment to supporting the local economy and shaping a vibrant hospitality landscape.” 

Highlighting the broader significance for the region, South Australia Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison MP, said: “Crystalbrook Sam will play an important role in strengthening Adelaide’s premium accommodation offering as our visitor economy continues to grow. South Australia is attracting more interstate and international travellers than ever, and investments like this signal strong confidence in our state. It’s fantastic to see major tourism and construction partners backing Adelaide with a project that will elevate the experience for business and leisure travellers alike.”