Intercontinental Sydney
Project Type:
Hotel
Year:
2022
Architect
Woods Bagot
Location:
Sydney, Australia
The InterContinental Sydney, redesigned by Woods Bagot, represents a transformative project melding historical preservation with contemporary luxury. Situated adjacent to the Royal Botanic Garden and overlooking Sydney Harbour, this five-star hotel seamlessly blends the heritage-listed 1851 Treasury Building with a 32-level tower completed in 1985.
The redesign, a $120 million project, sought to respect the building’s 171-year heritage while updating its facilities to meet modern standards. The approach taken by Woods Bagot was to integrate and enhance both the old and new elements of the property. Interior Design Leader Tracey Wiles emphasized the importance of maintaining the historical integrity of the building while introducing contemporary touches. This was achieved through a careful selection of materials such as sandstone, brickwork, and timber, combined with bold color palettes inspired by Sydney’s sub-tropical environment.
Key features of the redesign include the transformation of the ground-level Cortile, a central atrium where the two buildings meet, into a luxurious bar area known as The Treasury Bar. This space, originally a roofless courtyard, now features a contemporary chevron-tiled floor and rich green plants, evoking the openness of the original courtyard while connecting to the surrounding gardens.
The guest rooms were also meticulously redesigned, embracing a blue and green palette that connects with the stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the Royal Botanic Garden. This approach marks a departure from the typical neutral tones seen in many modern hotels, creating a unique and vibrant experience for guests.
Additionally, the project introduced a new entrance featuring a dynamic plissé stone wall made from honed limestone and book-matched Verde Oceania marble. This design element acts as a continuous thread of materiality throughout the hotel, complemented by bespoke Spotted Gum reception desks that echo Sydney’s coastal forms.
A significant aspect of the redesign was to enhance the hotel's appeal not only to guests but also to locals. The ground-floor Treasury Bar and the rooftop Aster Bar were designed to attract Sydney's sophisticated bar scene, offering stunning views and unique experiences. The rooftop, previously exclusive to Club InterContinental members, has been opened up to the public, providing spectacular views and a shared space for both hotel guests and local visitors.
The redesign of the InterContinental Sydney has ushered the property into a new era of luxury while respecting its historical roots, creating a harmonious blend of past and present that caters to both international visitors and the local community.