Independent Hotel management company La Vie Hotels and Resorts has acquired the management rights for the former Rydges Norwest in Sydney’s Hills District.
The property has been rebranded under a white label as Visy Dior Hotels International and is set to undergo a transformation worth up to AU$18 million over the next 18 months.
Visy Dior Hotels International features 132 rooms, including Executive Spa rooms and Balcony King rooms, a restaurant, swimming pool, fitness centre, and extensive function facilities.
The full-scale renovation includes plans for redesigned guest rooms and function spaces, innovative dining experiences, and the development of a new grand ballroom to host 880 guests with a large dance floor.
La Vie Hotels and Resorts Chief Operating Officer, Marcus Hanna, welcomed the addition of Visy Dior to the company’s growing portfolio of hotels and resorts.
“The Hills region is one of Sydney’s most dynamic business and lifestyle hubs,” Hanna said.
“This project reflects our mission to deliver elevated guest experiences, and we are confident Visy Dior will redefine hospitality standards in the area.”
The Visy Dior Hotels International brand is owned by prominent local businessmen, Giovaninno j F Navarra and Tony Merhi, CEO of Merc Capital.
The Navarra family owns and operates highly successful venues including Conca D’oro Lounge, Le Montage, Curzon Hall, Oatlands House Estate, and Eschol Park Events Centre.
The name ‘Visy’ was proposed by Merhi to evoke “clarity, vision, and precision” that reflects a commitment to “quality and a forward-looking, modern sensibility”.
Giovaninno introduced ‘Dior’, not to reference the fashion house directly, but “to capture the essence of refinement, artistry, and European luxury” and to evoke a “premium experience and timeless appeal”.
Navarra said the partnership with La Vie Hotels and Resorts represents “a defining moment in the evolution of the Visy Dior brand”.
“La Vie’s operational expertise and proven leadership in Hotel Management align seamlessly with our vision to create a flagship destination that embodies sophistication, innovation, and people-first luxury,” said Navarra.
“Together, we are not just transforming a property – we are setting a new industry benchmark in the Hills District. This collaboration will deliver an elevated 5-star experience that resonates with today’s discerning traveller while establishing a powerful blueprint for the future of modern hospitality.
“The revitalised Visy Dior Hotels International will be a community cornerstone, offering refined service, curated experiences, and exceptional hospitality for both travellers and locals.”