The Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour has opened, marking the first new-build 5-star hotel in the city in more than 15 years, according to AccorHotels, which called it a flagship property.
Sydney architect Richard Francis-Jones of Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp designed the A$500 million (US$386.0 million) building, and Dreamtime Australia Design and the A+ Design Group were behind the interiors.
The glass exterior features triangular accents representing sails, and a red ochre and blue exterior palette that pays tribute to the indigenous clans of the Eora nation who lived around Tumbalong, the name given to Darling Harbour.
The hotel has 590 guestrooms, including 35 suites, with floor-to-ceiling views of the harbor and city. Guests staying in the Club Sofitel rooms and suites on levels 28 to 34 have access to the Club Millésime Lounge on the 35th floor, which offers private check-in and other amenities.
The hotel’s public spaces and guestrooms nod to the maritime history of the area and the industries that formerly occupied the site, including timber and rope, along with sandstone motifs in the carpets.
Three bars and a signature restaurant, the French-inspired rotisserie and grill Atelier by Sofitel, anchor the hotel. Atelier uses local seasonal produce and culinary techniques highlighting Sofitel’s French heritage.
The Champagne Bar offers 20 versions of the drink. Esprit Noir is the lobby bar.
Le Rivage Pool Bar is on the fourth floor, next to a 20-meter infinity pool.
