Western Sydney suburb Penrith will welcome its first 5-star hotel this week with the official opening of Pullman Sydney Penrith on Friday August 11.
Opening alongside the Western Sydney Conference Centre (WSCC) as part of a $110 million precinct, the hotel features 153 guest rooms, a wellness and fitness centre, upscale European-inspired Marcel Bar and Bistro alongside lobby bar, Tori.
With a new international airport on the way for Western Sydney and billions of dollars in infrastructure projects already in the works, the hotel is expected to appeal to both corporate and leisure travellers.
“This stunning hotel is a magnificent addition to our portfolio and showcases the essence of Pullman’s brand promise, offering an innovative and elevated experience combining comfort, and intuitive service,” said Accor Pacific Chief Executive Officer, Sarah Derry.
“With its prime location in Penrith, guests can expect a unique experience that combines the tranquillity of the Blue Mountains with the vibrant energy of Sydney. We are confident that Pullman Sydney Penrith will elevate the hospitality landscape in the region and provide an unforgettable stay for both business and leisure travellers.”
The building design, by architecture and design studio, Turner, is inspired by the nearby Nepean River with a ribbon-like shape and reflective panels that create a shimmering effect.
A First Nations sculpture tells the story of the river’s importance as a food source and explores local fishing techniques used by the Dharug people. The Warami Community Centre is also included in the precinct.
Extensive landscaping by Oculus follows the curvilinear theme of the building with over 75 trees and 8,000 plants – predominantly native – intended to connect guests to nature
The hotel features a large selection of commissioned paintings by a range of acclaimed artists, including award-winning Aboriginal Australian artist, Gloria Petyarre, and Archibald-prize-winning artist, John Olsen AO OBE.
Health and wellness is a key focus of the hotel offering. A bespoke Sleep Therapy Menu available on the in-room tablet allows guests to order everything from face and eye masks to aromatherapy pillow sprays, soothing teas, and an extensive pillow menu. There is also a selections of background sounds, colours and room lighting settings to choose from.
“We believe in giving people a great night’s sleep, so they feel refreshed, recharged and ready for whatever their day has instore for them. Our unique sleep therapy services offer a way for our guests to discover their best sleep yet,” said Pullman Sydney Penrith and Western Sydney Conference Centre General Manager, Glen Erickson.
The fitness and wellness centre has been designed for professional athletes in collaboration with the Penrith Panthers. It is equipped with advanced fitness technology and equipment including Watt bikes, Woodway treadmills, Assault bikes, SkiErgs, squat racks, an Olympic lifting platform, resistance machines, and weights which range up to 30kgs.
There is also a custom, in-built 10-person sauna at the facility.
Executive Chef Colin Chun – described as “a pioneering and visionary chef” – will oversee the culinary offering for the entire precinct, including the conference centre, Marcel Bar and Bistro and lobby bar Tori.
Modern European restaurant Marcel, located on the first floor follows a Bauhaus-inspired design with subdued primary colours and sleek shapes, while the bar features an open wine cellar.
On the ground floor, Tori offers a contemporary take on a traditional lobby bar, serving up light bites during the day and transforming into an evening drinks spot come nighttime.
The 1,000-seat capacity conference centre has a column-free design and features flexible spaces. A terrace that can be utilised for pre-event cocktails adjoins the function and pre-function spaces. There is also a lobby lounge and bar serving cocktails and barista coffee.