The Silo Hotel

Rising majestically above the V&A Waterfront, The Silo Hotel is an architectural masterpiece that has redefined Cape Town’s skyline. Built into the elevator portion of a historic 1920s grain silo complex, the hotel occupies six floors above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA). It is a spectacular fusion of industrial heritage and high-end glamour, designed by the world-renowned Thomas Heatherwick.

The Iconic Pillowed Glass Windows

The hotel's most striking feature is its 5.5-meter high "pillowed" glass windows. These multi-faceted structures are inset into the original concrete geometry of the silo, bulging outward as if gently inflated. At night, they transform the building into a glowing lantern on the harbour. Inside the rooms, these windows provide 180-degree panoramic views of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and the Atlantic Ocean, framing the city like a living work of art.

Eclectic Interiors and African Art

While the exterior is industrial and geometric, the interiors—designed by Liz Biden—are a riot of color, texture, and eclectic luxury. Each of the 28 rooms is individually decorated with hand-picked antiques, vibrant Persian rugs, and bold contemporary African art. The high ceilings and industrial concrete walls provide a dramatic backdrop for silk-velvet headboards and Egyptian cotton linens, creating a space that feels both grand and incredibly intimate.

The Rooftop and Willaston Bar

The Silo Rooftop offers one of the most exclusive experiences in the city. Featuring an glass-fronted infinity pool and a stylish bar, it is the ultimate spot for sunset cocktails overlooking the harbour. For a more formal setting, the Willaston Bar on the sixth floor features the iconic pillowed windows and offers a curated list of South Africa’s finest wines, particularly the robust reds from the nearby Stellenbosch and Franschhoek valleys.