InterContinental Sydney is set to unveil the results of a $110 million renovation project this September after two years in the works.
The luxury hotel, set in Sydney’s restored Treasury Building of 1851, has been given a contemporary redesign by architecture studio Woods Bagot in a way that respects and celebrates its heritage status, including the enhancement of original elements of the facade.
“We are thrilled to finally share more on what’s been happening behind closed doors these past two years,” said InterContinental Sydney General Manager, Jennifer Brown.
“The reimagination of Sydney’s most iconic heritage hotel redefines the contemporary luxury hotel experience whilst paying homage to the building’s rich past and its many unique stories. This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the hotel. Together with our owners, Mulpha, we are proud to have elevated this very special place.”
After three decades in operation, having first opened in 1985, InterContinental Sydney’s new look includes new fine food and beverage experiences, innovative design features and an updated colour palette.
The internal upgrade of the hotel includes all public areas and each of the 509 guest rooms and suites, with the colour palette drawing inspiration from the green and blue hues of the adjacent Botanic Gardens and Sydney Harbour visible through picture-frame windows.
The redesign also sees the introduction of two new bars including a new lobby bar that honours the outdoor space of the past, whilst still enclosed in the original brick walls of the Treasury Building.
The rooftop space on Level 32 will feature a signature bar with outdoor terrace offering views across Sydney’s skyline.
“An extremely meticulous design process was required to ensure the heritage buildings have been honoured and the new adaptions respectfully integrated,” said Woods Bagot Regional Interior Design Leader, Tracey Wiles.
“The redesign celebrates the beauty of the original architecture, whilst respectfully adapting areas to create a new reception, rooms, bars and restaurants. We celebrate the building’s historic past, elevating the luxury of InterContinental Sydney and providing a welcoming retreat in the heart of the city.”
Australia’s water, sand, wood and sky have also provided inspiration for the design, adding “transparency, texture and tonal warmth” and creating a “homely” environment for guests.
Mulpha Australia CEO, Greg Shaw, said the investment in InterContinental Sydney will ensure the iconic hotel continues to receive the recognition and celebration it deserves.
“Together with the works underway at Circular Quay and the launch of the dynamic Quay Quarter precinct, we’re excited to be part of the visionary new neighbourhood establishing itself at this end of the city, providing a local and international drawcard for generations to come,” Shaw said.
Throughout the restoration period, the hotel has remained open to guests albeit with limited access to public spaces.