Australia’s first luxury hotel, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, is set to reveal its newlook conference and event spaces following a $60 million AUD refurbishment.
This iconic hotel, located in the heart of Sydney’s bustling Central Business District (CBD), has long been a prestigious destination for hosting international events, and its modernised facilities aim to cement its status as the top choice for conferencing and luxury experiences in Australia.
With 436 newly renovated rooms and suites, spread across 15 storeys, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth stands as the largest single brick structure in the Southern Hemisphere.
Originally opened in the 1960s as Sydney’s first five-star hotel, the building is infused with an air of retro jet-set glamour, regularly attracting royals, dignitaries, movie stars, and global celebrities. This historic property is just steps away from the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
Cutting-Edge Event Spaces and Grand Ballroom
One of the most anticipated aspects of the refurbishment is the unveiling of Sofitel Sydney Wentworth’s new state-of-the-art conference and event spaces. With over 15 venues, including contemporary meeting rooms and the renowned Wentworth Ballroom, the hotel combines tradition with modern technology. The Wentworth Ballroom, one of Sydney’s largest, boasts 629 square metres of floor space, enough to host up to 750 guests. Its striking 1960s mirrored ceilings, Waterford Crystal chandeliers, and a car hoist make it a truly grand venue.
Each event space is now equipped with cutting-edge technology, including wide-screen projection systems, high-quality sound systems, and customisable lighting solutions. The highlight is Australia’s largest LED screen installed in the Grand Ballroom, complemented by LED upgrades throughout the event areas. Sofitel’s in-house technical organisers will offer assistance with every production element, ensuring seamless and immersive experiences for every event.
Michelin-Trained Chef and Culinary Excellence
Elevating the event experience even further, Michelin-trained Executive Chef Bektaş Özcan will be leading the culinary offerings. Özcan, who has experience catering for world-renowned events such as the Cannes International Film Festival, will oversee the event menus at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth. His expertise will be reflected in a blend of local, organic, and sustainable ingredients, creating exceptional dining experiences for event attendees.
Sofitel’s newly expanded dining precinct includes two restaurants, two bars, and one of Sydney’s largest rooftop terraces. These offerings will redefine luxury dining in Sydney’s CBD, combining French savoir-faire with local flavours, further establishing the hotel as a premier culinary destination.
A Commitment to Innovation and Personalised Service
The refurbishment at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth goes beyond just aesthetics and technology. The hotel’s commitment to personalised service remains at the heart of its offering. A dedicated team of event specialists is on hand to ensure that every event detail is meticulously planned and executed, providing a tailored and seamless experience for guests.
This $60 million AUD investment also showcases Sofitel’s dedication to innovation and sustainability. By integrating the latest in event technology and continuing to use eco-friendly practices, the hotel is setting a benchmark for luxury hotels in the region.
French Heritage Meets Sydney’s Iconic Landscape
Sofitel, part of the Accor Group, is renowned for being the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France. Its Sydney property is a long-standing ambassador of French culture and elegance, seamlessly blending this heritage with the vibrancy of Sydney’s business and cultural landscape.
The newly revamped Sofitel Sydney Wentworth retains its rich history, having hosted an illustrious array of guests over the past half-century. From Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh to Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Princess Diana, the hotel has played a pivotal role in Sydney’s cultural fabric.
As part of the hotel’s grand re-opening, event planners who book by 31st December 2024 can take advantage of exclusive experiences, including a Chef-curated menu upgrade, a Café Gourmand Coffee Cart experience, and loyalty points through the ALL Meeting Planner Programme. In keeping with Sofitel’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), event planners will also have the option to donate $1,000 AUD to a charity of their choice, adding a meaningful aspect to their luxury event planning.
A New Era for Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
As Sofitel Sydney Wentworth prepares to unveil its newly transformed spaces, it is clear that this multi-million-dollar refurbishment is designed to position the hotel as a leader in both luxury accommodation and world-class event hosting. Whether it’s for a large international conference or an intimate gathering, this iconic hotel remains the premier destination for those seeking an elegant and sophisticated setting in the heart of Sydney.
