Surry Hills Landmark Transformed: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Reopens After $70 Million Revamp

Remember the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth? Well, forget everything you thought you knew! A $70 million makeover has transformed this Sydney icon.

This grand dame of Sydney’s hotel scene, once the largest brick building in the southern hemisphere, has been reimagined for the modern age while honouring its 1960s origins.

Initially built in 1966 as Australia’s first international hotel, the distinctive curved structure replaced an earlier grand hotel that bore the Wentworth name—synonymous with Sydney’s past. This latest transformation, spearheaded by renowned design studio FK (formerly Fender Katsalidis), blends 1960s modernism with cutting-edge technology.

Highlights of the Refurbishment

*Photo Credit:* *Sofitel Sydney Wentworth*

A revitalised exterior: Clad in bronze, the hotel’s façade presents a striking new entrance leading to a redesigned lobby with intimate lounge areas and streamlined check-in stations.

Refreshed guest rooms: All 436 rooms and suites have been updated with a focus on contemporary comfort and technology, including “wellness bags” with exercise gear for guests.

Expanded culinary offerings: A key element of the renovation is the introduction of new dining experiences curated by Sydney’s acclaimed House Made Hospitality.

The hotel, known for hosting prominent figures like Princess Diana, offers new services to attract international travellers and residents.

With its panoramic city views, the revitalised Wentworth Bar is expected to be a particular drawcard, potentially breathing new life into the historic Wentworth name.

Published Date 30-October-2024