Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney has relaunched its 668-square-metre Grand Ballroom.
The space is inspired by the iconic silhouettes and sculptural elegance of Sydney’s two most famous landmarks, the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
The new Grand Ballroom’s ceiling features four ornate crystal chandeliers in a series of oval recesses, each bordered with over 2,000 glowing crystal rods that are hand-crafted from alabaster.
Conceived to create the illusion of natural light where the colour and contrast may be adjusted for individual events and occasions, scalloped patterns and wave-like motifs adorn the ceiling and walls with hints of European flair and Australia’s rich colonial history.
Equipped with the latest technology, the ballroom’s lighting, sound and audio-visual system are controlled through a wireless iPad, while 69 light-emitting diode (LED) ceiling lights can be individually remote controlled to highlight table centrepieces or specific areas of an event.
Complimentary Wi-fi is also available throughout the facility.
“We’re very excited about our new Grand Ballroom which is rich in detail and reflects the story behind The Rocks, one of Australia’s most historic districts,” said Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney General Manager, Franz Donhauser.
“It is wonderful that we’re able to combine the elegance that Shangri-La is known for around the world with a special venue that truly reflects our iconic position along Sydney Harbour.”
The theme of using Australian cultural touchstones and elements of indigenous art with subtle motifs and intricate patterns continues into the spacious pre-function area.
Aside from conveying a contemporary space of contrasting textures with raw and refined materials, which are sourced from around the world, the design firm’s mission to be Storytellers of Space perfectly fits the events that will eventually unfold in the Grand Ballroom and in the hotel’s 18 other function areas.
AB Concept, a Hong Kong-based design company led by co-founders Ed Ng and Terence Ngan, were specially appointed for the project having earned a reputation around the world as a luxury atelier of contemporary design and architectural precision.
The Grand Ballroom, located on level B of Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney is able to accommodate up to 850 guests for cocktail receptions and 500 guests for banquets.