DCOH, a leading Northern Territory property developer, has signed a milestone franchise agreement with Marriott International to transform the Smith Hotel Darwin into Courtyard by Marriott Darwin.
The strategic conversion of the Smith Hotel Darwin to Courtyard by Marriott Darwin marks Marriott's debut in Australia's Northern Territory and represents the first Marriott-branded hotel to be managed by third-party operator Trilogy Hotels, following the establishment of their multi-property partnership with DCOH in October 2024.
DCOH, is a family-run enterprise and one of the region's largest privately owned construction, property, and hospitality providers.
“When it comes to unlocking the full potential of our key CBD assets under Trilogy, the Darwin community deserves the very best, and that means bringing an outstanding global brand like Marriott to the Darwin marketplace.
"As a proud Northern Territory hotel owner, we’re eager to highlight what makes Darwin a unique and special destination as part of the hotel’s transformation,” said DCOH Managing Director, Shane Dignan.
“It’s great to see this huge signal of investor confidence in Darwin’s thriving hospitality scene. Bringing another global name like Marriott to the Territory is a sign of growth to come, meaning new opportunities and experiences for locals and visitors alike,” shared Cathy Simmonds, Hospitality NT, CEO.
The 186-room hotel located in Darwin City, is at the epicentre of the entertainment and cultural districts with easy access to the Darwin Entertainment Centre, the Darwin Convention Centre, Mitchell Street’s nightlife and dining scene such as the new Cinema Collective venues, The Esplanade, and the Museum of Modern Art.
“Gaining a presence in Darwin has been a high strategic priority for Marriott for some time, as we seek to expand our footprint across Australia. Our first hotel in Darwin is therefore an important milestone for our business and an exciting advancement for our largest global brand, Courtyard by Marriott,” said Richard Crawford, Vice President of Hotel Development for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.
The city hotel features an outdoor pool, gym, and the vibrant D Bar and Restaurant, which serves Australian and Asian-inspired cuisine.
Scott Boyes, CEO of Trilogy Hotels, shared his excitement for the partnership: “We are thrilled to be bringing Marriott to Darwin, and in a big way, to a proudly locally owned hotel. Trilogy will work closely with Marriott to maximise the unique opportunities this market holds.”
Courtyard by Marriott Darwin will open in the first quarter of 2025 at 81 Smith Street, Darwin, Northern Territory.