Best Western Plus Market Square Lviv: a case of successful development and management from ABH

Best Western Plus Market Square Lviv is a unique case study in the Ukrainian market, demonstrating the ArtBuild team’s ability to execute highly complex projects and achieve international recognition even during extremely challenging times for the country. We executed this turnkey project as co-investors and developers: from developing the concept, financial and economic model, and interior design concept to managing construction/renovation, equipping the hotel, bringing in an international brand, and subsequent operational management. The hotel opened on September 1, 2022.

Work on the property required precision, as the hotel is located in historic buildings (townhouses) on Rynok Square, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite strict architectural constraints, the ABH team ensured maximum technological integration of the property.

Custom Development and Specialized Hotel Technology

As part of our specialized hotel technology development service, the hotel was equipped with a suite of modern smart solutions:

• Property Management System (PMS)
• Building Management System (BMS)
• Room Management System (RMS)
• A multimedia system in the Boim Hall.

These systems continuously interact with one another, enabling automatic building management, energy optimization, and service control. As a result, guests experience an innovative approach at every stage: from quick check-in to the perfect indoor climate in the rooms.

International Brand

BW Plus Market Square Lviv became the only Ukrainian hotel to successfully bring in an international brand during the war. ArtBuild signed an agreement to use the Best Western Plus brand, which is part of the BWH Hotels network (over 4,300 hotels in more than 110 countries worldwide).

In addition, during this challenging period, the hotel launched on global sales platforms (OTAs, GDSs) by signing agreements with Booking and Expedia. This demonstrated the ability of Ukrainian hoteliers to operate according to global standards under any circumstances.

Management Achievements and Awards

ABH took over the hotel’s operational management in the spring of 2022. The team organized staff recruitment and training, streamlined all operational processes, and implemented Best Western quality standards. Particular attention was paid to the details of the guest experience: a pillow menu, stress-relief services, loyalty programs, and personalized offers for corporate clients were developed, among other initiatives.

Results of our systematic efforts:

• A 9.8 rating on Booking.com – one of the highest scores in Ukraine, achieved just a year and a half after opening.
• Nomination for the 2023 World Travel Awards in the Best Hotel in Ukraine” category.
• Best Western EMEA Awards (2023-2024) – awards for two consecutive years in the categories: Best Service, Best Experience, and Best Breakfast among hotels in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Gastronomic achievements: Boim Restaurant

The hotel’s own Boim Restaurant deserves special attention. The ABH team created a well-thought-out concept and signature cuisine that have transformed the establishment into a gastronomic highlight of the city.

In 2023, the restaurant was nominated for the prestigious World Culinary Awards in the Best New Restaurant in Europe category, competing on equal footing with establishments from the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Spain.

Results: In February 2025, management of the Best Western Plus Market Square Lviv hotel was transferred to another management company, and the ABHG team leaves behind a legacy of high professionalism, the ability to maintain global standards, and the achievement of international recognition even under extremely challenging conditions.