The design accentuates the best of the original building while adding sophisticated modern touches.
Bates Smart Studio Director Brenton Smith says the design combines classic resort style with a contemporary Sydney twist.
“The approach we took was about contextualising the hotel and reinstating the glamour back into Double Bay,” he says.
“The new InterContinental Sydney Double Bay lies in a remarkable part of Sydney, where a stunning bayside lifestyle combines with high fashion and big business.”
“We’ve extended this feel and built a place to be seen, in a hotel that typifies understated luxury.”
The theme of ‘understated luxury’ is evident throughout the entire refurbishment, which included an overhaul of the rooftop area - creating a sophisticated pool and bar setting for hotel guests, with panoramic views of the harbour.
“For us, the jewel in the crown is the Rooftop Pool and Lounge. The space presented a fantastic opportunity where we were able to frame the bay views in an intimate setting,” explains Smith.“
We wanted to create a relaxed texture and rawness to the space, referencing traditional Mediterranean resorts such as the Amalfi coast or Mykonos, so the materials are light and cool, the limestone split rock wall is quite warm, and the cabanas feature navy blue and white stripes that recall classical beach-side umbrellas.”
Other features include a Grand Ballroom that can facilitate up to 495 guests, a revitalisation of the original marble reception and an intimitate destination restaurant, Stockroom. InterContinental Sydney Double Bay also has 14 Executive Suites and 1 Royal Suite, with private balconies.
A classic marble and leather-clad Stillery gin bar encourages guests to mix with locals within a relaxed setting with a subtle nautical theme, paying tribute to the nearby bay. “It’s the super yacht of bars,” adds Smith.
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