Julius Meinl Living has cleared a key milestone in its Bucharest expansion, securing the building permit from city authorities in January 2026 to kick off the full redevelopment of the historic Ambasador Hotel property.
The 12,600 sqm Art Deco landmark on Bulevardul General Gheorghe Magheru 8-10A, opened in 1939, shuttered during WWII and communism, will transform into The Julius Bucharest, with 158–160 luxury rooms and apartments. Contractor negotiations wrap soon, with works starting shortly after and doors opening in early 2028.
The acquisition, completed in two stages last year, saw Julius Meinl buy Ambasador SA (half-owner and operator of the hotel) then consolidate the other half. Now with permit in hand, the project accelerates a two-year revamp preserving the building’s pre-war essence while injecting modern luxury.
Expect The Julius Bucharest to mirror the group’s Prague crown jewel: 16,162 sqm, 168 rooms/apartments plus restaurant, House of Julius Meinl gourmet store, cafe, meeting rooms, co-working space, gym and more. LEED Gold certification targets sustainability, blending heritage with high-end hospitality.
Julius Meinl Living is the hospitality arm of the iconic Austrian coffee dynasty, transforming historic properties into luxury hotels and apartments. Flagship: The Julius Prague (168 rooms, gourmet store, LEED Gold).
