The Playford has claimed the title of one of Australia’s finest boutique stays, taking out Best Boutique Hotel in Australia at the 2025 HM Awards. This huge national win has placed not just the Art Nouveau-style hotel in the spotlight, but also joined the rest of the Accor group with a suite of accolades at the ceremony in Sydney.
For those who have stayed or celebrated at The Playford, this is a confirmation of what they have quietly known for years: The Playford is in a league of its own. As part of Accor’s prestigious MGallery Hotel Collection, the hotel combines inspired design with personalised service, delivering a unique experience that’s memorable well after you check out.
The award comes at a defining moment for The Playford, which continues to build its reputation as one of Adelaide’s most beautifully curated hotels after completing renovations. Its thoughtful reimagining of the Art Nouveau era with sweeping staircases, handcrafted chandeliers and romantic detailing, which gives the hotel a sense of drama and intimacy that modern hotels don’t always nail. At The Playford, even the smallest details feel wrapped in story. Each of the hotel’s 182 rooms are a world of opulence, drawing inspiration from the maestro and his muse, who once symbolised the lavish spirit of Art Nouveau mansions, grand salons, winter gardens, opulent dining rooms and private boudoirs designed for quiet escape.
It’s this sense of narrative and indulgence that makes The Playford stand out, and it’s clearly resonating, with the HM judges placing it at the top of the country’s boutique category.
Accor, the hospitality powerhouse behind The Playford, also had a night worth celebrating at the HM Awards, taking out Accommodation Chain of the Year for the fourth year running and secured major industry wins for their executives and properties across Australia.
Accor Pacific Vice President of Operations for Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems, David Fraser, said the wins reflect the exceptional dedication of their team. “It is an absolute honour to see Sofitel and MGallery recognised for their outstanding achievements at the 2025 HM Awards. These accolades reflect the exceptional dedication and innovations of our teams, and I couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishments.”
For anyone who has stepped inside the hotel, the win feels both fitting and overdue. With national recognition now added to its growing list of honours, The Playford continues to raise the bar for boutique hospitality in Australia.
Find The Playford at 120 North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia and online.
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