The five-star Sofitel Sydney Wentworth unveils its extensive $70 million (AUD) refurbishment, with completion set for November. Created by Qantas in the 1960s, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth has a storied history, spanning over half a century. Central to the hotel’s refurbishment vision was reigniting the ’60s jet-set glamour that characterised its original charm when it opened as Australia’s premier international 5-star hotel, attracting royals, movie stars, and dignitaries. The aim was to modernise this golden era for the 21st century.
The refurbishment encompassed 436 guest rooms and suites, the Sofitel Club Millésime, health and wellness centre (with exciting updates to come), public spaces including the grand entrance lobby, and state-of-the-art conference and event spaces.
Pivotal to the transformation is Sofitel Sydney Wentworth’s partnership with prominent Sydney hospitality group House Made Hospitality. They have created an exceptional multi-venue drinking and dining precinct within the luxury hotel, with two restaurants, tilda and Delta Rue; two bars, bar tilda and Wentworth Bar; and one of Sydney’s largest outdoor terrace bars.
With much of the refurbishment led by architecture and interior design firm FK, the hotel embodies the essence of ‘Modern Heritage’. The building was originally designed in a post-war minimalist style. Opened in 1966 with a modernist interior, it was the largest brick structure in the southern hemisphere. Enabling the building to reflect the spirit of its time, the design seeks to capture the essence of this modernist era through a contemporary lens, celebrating the building’s unique heritage and re-igniting the hotel’s glamourous past. Guests can expect the following:
Entrance and lobby
The new grand entrance boasts a sleek bronze façade, offering a glimpse of the refreshed lobby. A striking lighting feature, inspired by Sofitel’s candlelit room ritual, illuminates the way. The open-plan lobby blends 1960s heritage with modern elegance, featuring vibrant lounge spaces and views of restaurant tilda. Soft curves in the joinery and furniture complement the building’s striking exterior. Cutting-edge technology, including interactive stations and an online concierge app, enhances convenience, while the guest relations lounge provides a warm, personalized welcome for a seamless, extraordinary stay.
Rooms and Suites
Experience Sofitel luxury in 436 elegantly designed rooms and suites, blending 1960s charm with modern touches. The rooms boast MySmart lighting, bespoke French Balmain amenities, and the signature Sofitel MyBed™. Start your day with a Nespresso and unwind with in-room dining by House Made Hospitality. Stay active with the Wellness Bag, a portable gym kit perfect for in-room workouts or outdoor fitness at nearby landmarks like the Botanic Gardens. Every detail is crafted for comfort, relaxation, and an extraordinary stay.
Conferencing and events
Sofitel Sydney Wentworth offers 15 event spaces, blending tradition and innovation. The iconic Wentworth Ballroom, one of Sydney’s largest at 629m², can host up to 750 guests. Cutting-edge technology, including one of Australia’s largest LED screens, enhances all venues with upgraded lighting, presentation, and staging. Michelin-trained Executive Chef Bektaş Özcan elevates event dining with menus featuring local, organic, and sustainable ingredients, ensuring an exceptional experience.
Sofitel Club Millésime
Sofitel Club Millésime offers an exclusive check-in and tranquil lounge experience, featuring plush furnishings, business services, shower facilities, and all-day dining, from breakfast to Apéro Chic evening drinks. Access is complimentary for Platinum members of Accor’s ALL loyalty programme, with day passes available for others.
Restaurants and bars
House Made Hospitality expands in Sofitel Sydney Wentworth with four distinct venues offering diverse experiences from morning to night. tilda offers a laid-back Australiana vibe, while Bar Tilda revives timeless allure with nostalgic cocktails and nu jazz. Delta Rue brings vibrant Vietnamese-French flavours, and Wentworth Bar features a buzzing rooftop terrace. All venues combine hotel glamour with premium Australian hospitality under one roof.
From its historic roots to its modern transformation, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth reintroduces itself as a world-class destination that honours its rich heritage. The recent refurbishment celebrates the hotel’s glamorous past while embracing the future. Ideally located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, just 12 kilometres from Kingsford Smith Airport and close to major transport hubs, the hotel offers unmatched convenience.
Moments away from iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth is also known as the ‘Hotel of the Arts’, marking over 20 years of partnership with the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Other key collaborations include Opera Australia, the Australian World Orchestra, and the Australian Youth Orchestra. Blending fashion, art, leisure, business, and unparalleled hospitality, the new Sofitel Sydney Wentworth offers an elevated experience that transcends traditional hotel boundaries.
