First Look: The Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Has Entered a New Era Following a Mammoth $70-Million Makeover

Quiet luxury is getting loud in the Harbour City as jet-set glamour cruises back into the CBD. Following its top-to-bottom $70-million renovation, the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth is set to reopen this November, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of its original opening. For over half a century, this architectural wonder, with its distinctive semi-circular design, has been a place of glamour and excess — the nation's first 5-star hotel at the time of its opening. Among its guests over the decades have been royals, movie stars and global dignitaries, and as the hotel enters a new era, it aims to maintain its timeless opulence that attracted such luminaries while embracing all the mod-cons of the 21st century.

Originally designed in a post-war minimalist style, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth welcomed its first guests in 1964. At the time, it was the largest brick structure in the southern hemisphere, complete with sleek, contemporary decor. Led by architecture and interior design firm FK, the ambitious renovations have captured the essence of the building's heritage, keeping its history alive by reigniting its glamorous past. The upgrades extend to 436 guest rooms and suites, the Sofitel Club Millésime, the health and wellness centre, all public spaces, including the grand entrance lobby and state-of-the-art conference and event spaces, and four dining venues conceived and operated by House Made Hospitality.

This multifaceted hospitality offering has been a major focus of the renovations. It includes two restaurants, tilda and Delta Rue, and two bars, bar tilda and Wentworth Bar, which boasts one of Sydney's largest outdoor terraces.

Leaning into its history the second you walk inside, the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth's grand entrance features a striking lighting piece inspired by a time-honoured Sofitel tradition of being escorted to your room by candlelight. Throughout the open-plan ground floor, visitors can spot subtle nods to the property's 1960's pedigree, for example, the striking, curved exterior extending inwards to create a series of intimate lounge spaces where guests to relax when they first arrive. Counterpointing this legacy design are 21st-century conveniences. Personalised service goes digital with interactive stations that streamline the check in process, while every aspect of a stay can now be controlled through Sofitel's concierge app.

The elevated entrance leads into the Sofitel Club Millésime, a warm, eclectic lounge layered with soft furnishings. Those who purchase a day pass to the club can pass the time relaxing and enjoy its facilities, including all-day dining and refreshments, hors d'oeuvres and evening drinks.

The essence of Sofitel's luxury can truly be found in its 436 rooms and suites, complete with a historical aesthetic updated with modern sensibility. The golden era of the hotel truly shines through with soft, sculptural forms, rich, layered materials and shining jewel tones. Contemporary amenities, such as smart, adjustable lighting and a pillow menu for the perfect night's sleep, deliver the modern touches today's hotel guests expect. Soak in the 60s charm with a heritage-listed bath and customisable French Balmain amenities, or start the morning with a Nespresso from the in-room pod machine. Guests can also enjoy revamped in-room dining by House Made Hospitality, offering guests an exciting opportunity to experience exceptional cuisine in the comfort of their room.

The grand Wentworth Ballroom, along with 15 other event spaces, has been given a technological face lift courtesy of Encore Event Technologies. While keeping its history intact, including a classic 1960s mirrored ceiling, Wentworth Ballroom now boasts one of Australia's largest LED screens. Other upgrades to all event and meeting spaces include state-of-the-art lights, digital screens and presentation technology. Event dining is guided by the expertise of newly appointed Michelin-trained Executive Chef Bektaş Özcan, who promises culinary excellence, with menus showcasing local, organic, and sustainable produce.

Sydney has enjoyed a boom in five-star accomodation in recent years, with recent additions like Crown Towers, Capella Sydney and the W Hotel stealing the spotlight from the older luxury stays in the city. With its mix of historic poise and contemporary finesse, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth now ranks amongst the finest hotels the Harbour City has to offer.

Find the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth at 61-101 Phillip Street, in the CBD.

Published on October 23, 2024 by Morgan Sile

First Look: The Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Has Entered a New Era Following a Mammoth $70-Million Makeover