Sofitel’s luxury Darling harbourside haven

By Rama Gaind.

The Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour is the Harbour City’s first new-build, international hotel since before Sydney hosted the 2000 Olympics. This is the first of a two-part feature on a luxury brand that is Darling Harbour’s tallest building.

‘Location, location, location!’ The well-worn real estate mantra resonated on arrival at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour. The 35-storey luxury hotel exemplifies the essence of the cliché!

It’s not only the tallest building in the precinct, but it occupies prime position in the midst of a dazzling harbour, complemented by landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

As Azhar expertly steered the Mercedes Benz towards the Darling Road destination, he elaborated on how much Darling Harbour had prospered since it had been named after Lieutenant-General Ralph Darling, who was Governor of NSW from 1825 to 1831. The area was originally known as Long Cove, but was generally referred to as Cockle Bay until 1826 when Governor Darling renamed it after himself. A former dockside area, the small harbour has been transformed into a large recreational and pedestrian district.

As the car came to a stop in front of the hotel, Frankie Gutierrez swiftly opened the door and smiled with a friendly greeting, “Bienvenue to the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour. Hope you enjoy your stay with us”. What a warm welcome!

One-of-a-kind

I was then ushered into the foyer and was struck by the animated exuberance among the crowd and the interior’s clean lines and open spaces. It was easy to see Sofitel had drawn inspiration from local culture and tradition, while celebrating innovation and the French art de vivre to offer a one-of-a-kind, opulent hotel experience.

Wait … is that distinctive archway in the lobby (and what about that display cabinet) reminiscent of an iconic French designer? Of course, the design is inspired by Louis Vuitton’s travel cases! When it’s time to check in, be fascinated by the fish tanks behind the reception desks. Unconventional, though eye-catching!

The hotel’s general manager, Greg Brady, succinctly encapsulates the highlights of this sojourn:

“Enjoy a fabulous stay in a luxury hotel located in the vibrant Darling Harbour precinct, facing the city’s centre. Step into a world of sophistication blending French Art de Vivre and local culture. Enjoy a breathtaking view on the Harbour and skyline, laze the day away by our infinity pool or indulge yourself at the Champagne Bar. Make your stay magnifique in Sydney.”

This was the start of a journey to discover what makes this hotel so unique. It’s a mélange of the finest blueprint elements. Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour has been designed to incorporate cultural elements from four pillars:

• Steaming ahead – the industrial revolution comes to Sydney. Reflected with materials in the construction – wood (wharves), concrete (coal-based industry) and bronze (steam engine).
• The maritime history link is reflected in the ropes incorporated into the carpet design on Level 1 and hanging jelly fish in the lobby.
• Indigenous influence – the red ochre and blue colours on the exterior of the building are a tribute to the indigenous clans of the Eora nation who lived around Tumbalong, the name given to Darling Harbour meaning ‘a place where seafood is found’.
• The natural history of Darling Harbour – its ecology, topography, foreshores, flora and fauna prior to European settlement are reflected in the build, for example, a sandstone look in the carpet on the guest room floors.

Significant artworks

Even the original artworks in the rooms have significance. Three specific clusters have been designed, each of which contains curated pieces from two local artists who were commissioned to create new oeuvres based on the idea of ‘South France Seasides’.

Specialising in digital collage, pieces by Melbourne’s Alexandra Ethell are known for their complexities and liveliness that fill the nature-based imagery. Playfully quaint, Alexandra has created something with a “sense of adventure, curiosity – and a little touch of Sydney – to entice fellow travellers to explore”.

The work by London-based Australian photographer Jenni Hare is graphic, bold and colourful. When asked about the inspiration behind her pieces for Sofitel, Jenni says, “the inspiration really came from the location. The Côte d’Azur is incredibly stunning and the light and scenery are incredible, so inspiration came quite easily”.

The 590-room tower is an excellent addition to the city’s accommodation landscape. The higher the room, the better the view is from this harbourside, five-star waterfront haven. Unwinding in contemporary comfort of the luxury corner room was a taste of indulgence at its best. The bird’s-eye view of the Sydney city skyline from the 15^th floor is simply amazing. It’s even more astounding – while you soak in the bathtub with Lanvin bath amenities – observing through ceiling-to-floor windows. The languorous morning was bright and invigorating!

Harbour sights

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour is located next to the dynamic International Convention Centre and steps from the shopping area. Darling Harbour is tiny, but big in terms of attractions and things to do. It’s adjacent to the city centre of Sydney, on the western outskirts of the central business district. Split in two by the historic Pyrmont Bridge, it has attractions on both the southern and northern sides of the bridge.

Darling Harbour is one of Sydney CBD’s buzz places. Stroll past fizzing fountains along the paved waterfront promenade and gaze across the water at the sun glinting off the city’s skyscrapers. Besides the enticing line-up of shops and restaurants, the area is home to the Australian National Maritime Museum, Sydney Aquarium, Powerhouse Museum, Madame Tussauds, Sydney Wildlife World, Tumbalong Park, Darling Quarter Playground, Paddy’s Markets, IMAX cinema … and so much more. On Saturday evenings there’s even a fireworks display over the southern part of the harbour.

“If you are in a beautiful place where you can enjoy sunrise and sunset, then you are living like a lord.” These words from Australian actor Nathan Phillips are so true. It’s a veracious description of the surroundings!

DETAILS BOX

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

12 Darling Drive

Sydney NSW 2000

Telephone: (02) 8388 8888

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.sofitelsydneydarlingharbour.com.au