Surprisingly Unconventional

The Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre manages to be different things to different people. And all of them are good

- Amit Dixit

In the energetic chaos of suburban Gachibowli, the Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre is an island of calm.

The private road that leads up to it sets the tone, as you leave the world of business parks, high-rise residential apartments and glitzy shop windows behind, and enter a place where order reigns and everything is easy on the eye.

In January this year, the decade-old hotel unveiled its new look, after a major refurbishment, which took a year. The rooms now sport a contemporary design in trendy hues. There are vibrant restaurant upgrades. The lobby has a completely new look, and has eschewed a formal feel for a casual and welcoming ‘living room’ feel. According to Novotel, “the design elements and changes speak to a more modern Hyderabad that has risen over time in the lifestyle index in the country and is home to a young aspirational population that seeks new offerings in line with international standards.” Their #FreshAsFirst campaign to mark the occasion highlighted “a refreshed version of its experiences, packaged with a modern presentation and amalgamation of colours, warmth and signature Novotel occasions such as coming together over art, culture, music and family.” Not what you’d generally expect from a business hotel attached to a convention centre, right? But then this Novotel wears many hats.