Paddington’s West Olympia Theatre in Sydney’s eastern fringe is a hive of activity as work has now begun to transform the historic building into the Australian debut of Accor’s 25hours Hotels brand.
Richard Crookes Constructions has been appointed by investment firm, Boston Global and property developer, Central Element, to oversee the construction process. It marks the debut hospitality project for Central Element, led by Wayne Chivas, Shane Smollen and Managing Director, Nathan Chivas.
The company will work alongside Australian architecture firm, Tonkin Zulaikha Greer, along with interior designers A Work Of Substance and Sydney-based Acme & Co, with the latter taking responsibility for the look of the hotel’s dining offerings.
The building dates back to the 1880s when it operated as one of Sydney’s largest breweries before it was transformed 110 years ago into a theatre, where it hosted a variety of motion pictures along with a litany of musical and dramatic performance art.
Richard Crookes Constructions Managing Director, Jamie Crookes, said large parts of the building had stood vacant for over a decade.
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with CE Boston Hotels to reinstate the old West Olympia Theatre as an iconic destination, contributing to the ongoing revitalisation of the area and Sydney’s entertainment scene,” he said.
The highly sensitive remodelling of the site into 25hours Sydney is on track for completion late next year with guests due to be welcomed shortly thereafter. The hotel will feature 107 guest rooms, a rooftop bar, multiple restaurants, café, central courtyard, fitness centre and a variety of flexible conference and event venues which will pay tribute to the venue’s live music and entertainment history.