The site of a former printing works, and then an arts and music venue, on the Liffey quays has become the most expensive hotel the north city has seen. The Morrison is a first move into the hotel business for well-known publicans Thomas Read Holdings.

This temple of style will have 95 bedrooms, bar and two restaurants. The interior was designed by John Rocha. The architects are Douglas Wallace. The hotel is set to become the landmark of Lower Ormond Quay. It will also be accessible from the new footbridge due to be constructed later this year.

The £12 million Morrison will be organised in a U-shape around a central atrium where the Halo restaurant will be located. The Halo will be offering fusion food, a new food experience for Dubliners. The Lobo restaurant will have an Oriental theme and will have a late night bar until 2 a.m. The Morrison Bar located at street level with its own entrance will overlook the river and like other bars owned by Thomas Read Holdings such as Pravda, the Bailey and the Harbourmaster, is set to become the "in" place of the north quays.

The 95 bedrooms will all be equipped with high-tech efficiency, such as two-line telephones, voice-mail, ISDN and CD players. Unlike other Dublin hotels, the Morrison will be totally air-conditioned and the hotel, is putting the final touches in preparation for the opening. MTV has already found the Morrison to its liking - some of the many music stars visiting Dublin for the MTV Awards in November will be staying there.