The first phase of Tsogo Sun’s Gold Reef City in Ormonde, Johannesburg, South Africa’s R640m refurbishment, has been completed with the opening of a Salle Privé for select VIP players.

The new addition includes a VIP host desk, private cash desk facilities, private internet access, slots, gaming tables and a dedicated Baccarat room. Built from the ground up, the Privé can be accessed from both the main casino and the parking area.

Construction began a little over a year ago and includes the casino floor, which has been rejuvenated to make it more welcoming to guests. The casino’s main floor has divisions for smokers and non-smokers alike and each section, including Barney’s Smoking Casino, has been freshly painted and deep cleaned. Other improvements include new bases for slot machines and new carpeting. In addition, the tables area has been completely overhauled, which includes upgraded lighting and décor.

Gold Reef City’s Operations Director and Complex General Manager, Mike Page, said, “Gold Reef City has recently expanded its facilities through a R630m refurbishment and that includes the new sophisticated Salon Privé. With a lavish reception, lounge and private gaming rooms, Privé guests will also be able to relax and unwind in a private and luxurious lounge whilst enjoying drinks and gourmet snacks from the bar. First and foremost, we set out to improve our guest experience wherever possible and it’s incredibly rewarding to enter the Privé and see our vision for the venue take shape. We are looking forward to hosting our players in the most indulgent of settings,” according to G3 Newswire.

One of the Gauteng province’s favorite casinos, Gold Reef City first opened in 1997 and is in the process of transforming while maintaining its traditional mining town look and feel. Earlier completions include the opening of the Vigour & Verve restaurant, Magic Company, Spur Steak Ranch, a Kaya FM satellite studio, fast food court, and a 12-lane bowling alley. Four new restaurants will also be added and are expected to open by December, according to Engineering News.

Phase two of construction includes changes to the Gold Reef City theme park, such as additional rides and the renovation of the museum section, which had to be raised due to rising mine water issues. Also included in phase two is the theme park’s Apartheid Museum, which will include a permanent Nelson Mandela exhibit.