Global Lifestyle Brand to Transform Historic Residence into New Hotel
Cap-Hatien, Haiti – November 18, 2015 – Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott International’s exclusive portfolio of properties recognized for celebrating individuality, will add The Habitation Jouissant – a boutique hotel located in Cap-Hatien, Haiti – to its impressive global portfolio in the fourth quarter of 2017. The property, located in Haiti’s second largest city and situated on the country’s northern coast, will be Autograph Collection’s third hotel in the Caribbean and will proudly serve as Marriott International’s second property in Haiti – following the highly anticipated opening of the Marriott Port-Au-Prince Hotel in early 2015.
“We look forward to welcoming Habitation Jouissant to our growing global collection,” said Julius Robinson, Vice President & Global Lead, Autograph Collection Hotels. “As we approach welcoming our 100th property by early next year, we know Habitation Jouissant will bring both a unique and culturally rich perspective to the portfolio when it joins in 2017.”
As part of its transformation, Habitation Jouissant will undergo a comprehensive overhaul to include the addition of 87 guestrooms, bringing the guestroom total to 100 rooms with the property’s 13 already established suites. Once completed, the hotel will feature a new presidential suite, two restaurants, two pools, a fitness center and meeting rooms – all marked with one-of-a kind programs and amenities that follow Autograph Collection’s renowned tradition of providing experiences that are Exactly Like Nothing Else.
“We continue to seek out opportunities to bring leading hotel brands like Autograph Collection Hotels to Haiti in order to accommodate the impressive wave of international travelers visiting the region, specifically in Cap Haitien, “said Tim Sheldon, President of the Caribbean and Latin America, Marriott International. “The opening of Habitation Jouissant reaffirms our commitment to the great nation of Haiti and to the global presence of Autograph Collection, one of our company’s fastest growing and most unique brands.”
Originally built in 1959, the historic property was later acquired as a private residence by Haiti’s recognized Béliard family. In 2011, the residence was converted into a charming bed and breakfast and the following year, eight rooms were added for a total of 13 suites. The property also boasts a restaurant and a bar, which is an established favorite among both locals and visitors.
“It is with a great deal of pride that we join Marriott International in their first venture in Cap-Haitien”, adds Fred Béliard, Chairman of the Fatima Group, and owner of Habitation Jouissant. “We are thrilled to not only be a part of Cap-Haitien’s history but we are also very proud to be part of its emergence and radiance with this new partnership. The North is a jewel. Its development, both touristic and economic, is essential to Haiti’s success. We are confident that our partnership with Marriott International is a turning point that will mark the beginning of many great endeavors for us and for our fellow members of the tourism industry in the North.”
Miami-based firm Hamed Rodriguez Architects will lead the expansion plans while International Design Concepts will spearhead the interior design strategy and renovation. Gallant Media Group will oversee Habitation Jouissant’s branding and Trust Hospitality will manage the property.
