Overview
How can a hotel take advantage of the social media revolution? 1888, 8hotels' brand-new boutique hotel in Pyrmont, is answering that question with a picture-perfect building that skilfully marries old and new and a host of features for the snap-happy — even a gilt frame hanging from the ceiling for a cheeky selfie, Instagram-friendly walking maps for the area, a free stay offered to anyone with a substantial Instagram following (we're talking 10K+) and a free stay for the guest who takes the best shot of the hotel each month. And "this is only the beginning" says hotel manager Roberto Russo.
It's perfectly natural that 1888 should embrace Instagram so enthusiastically, given the amount of care that's gone into the hotel's distinctive aesthetic — it's a thoroughly visual experience. First impressions: the architect and designers have totally respected the original structure (built in 1888, the same year as Kodak launched with a patent for its first box and roll cameras) and capitalised on the pre-existing appeal of its patina-like, distressed brick walls and gargantuan wooden beams. The latter are so beautiful I had to hug one — the splinter I received only adding to the sheer rawthenticity of it all. In the middle of the lobby, an olive tree has been planted to represent the hotel's heart, and it has plenty of space to grow upwards into the five-storey atrium with its fancy glass elevators.
The ethos of preservation also shows itself in the upcycling of original wood from the building (formerly a woolstore — and much later, there was even a carpark where the lobby is now located) including gorgeous desks that appear in every room, as well as the lofty ceilings, generous windows and feature walls. Some of the window sills even have graffiti of yore carved into them. These historical details are paired with minimalist custom furniture and brightly coloured vintage pieces to create a design counterpoint that's truly refined.
Step into the bathroom of one of the larger rooms and you'll find a tub big enough for two — or one, if you fancy watching your companion perform a hilarious solo synchronised swimming act (as I did). Every room comes with wi-fi and a complimentary iPad which provides general info about the hotel, local places to eat, news and weather, and it also controls the AC.
The room service tab is empty for now; plans are underway to expand what's on offer in the hotel's bar and kitchen, which currently serves breakfast from a rustic Italian-inspired a la carte menu and a buffet featuring some epic muesli that I can't get out of my mind. If you're starving you can always raid the mini-bar, which, far from being stocked with the usual junky Mars Bars and tiny Johnnie Walker bottles, sources from local companies with an emphasis on health and yumminess.
For intimate functions or parties, there's The Williamson room (appropriately numbered 007) which boasts its own impressive side entrance — perfect for celebrity guests fleeing the paps — and a glitzy bar from the 1950s. The Geddes Room would work for a chic boardroom meeting. As for overnight stays, the Shoebox rooms are some of the best value for money in Sydney at $179, measuring 15 square metres but feeling bright and spacious thanks to the high ceilings and huge windows. 1888's been living up to its own hype, with all 90 rooms booked to full capacity only six weeks after opening. Book in and start hashtagging.
1888 Hotel has a 'Picture Perfect Package' available to book now until September 30. It includes:
-A room to photograph – one night for two in a King Room
-Foodporn – complimentary 1888 antipasto plate + two glasses of wine
-Share-ability – complimentary internet connection and iPads in all rooms
-Envy-inducing start to the day – complimentary breakfast
Prices start from $239. To make a reservation, phone 02 8586 1888 or visit the hotel website.
Instagramming 1888
Words and images by Shirin Borthwick.