Sofitel Darling Harbour opening soon
The 35-level, 590-room Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour is opening in just over a month from now.
It’s a big event – it will be the first new build luxury hotel in Sydney's CBD in 18 years.
The last time that happened was when the Westin Hotel opened in 1999 at No 1 Martin Place.
Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour's General Manager, Greg Brady acknowledged the time gap. But the time for a new luxury hotel in Sydney right now was good, he said.
“The city had to reach capacity in the luxury segment before that could happen,” Mr Brady told the Australian Financial Review. “Occupation rates in Sydney are now 90 per cent plus. It's more than time."
Sydney cosmetic surgeon and Australia's biggest private hotel owner, Dr Jerry Schwartz, is planning a big opening for the new hotel.
The hotel is being given over to 28 charities including the Glenn Mcgrath foundation, WorldVision and Starlight.
They have been invited to take out as many rooms as they can. The aim is to raise $1 million.
And of course, each charity's respective CEO and celebrity ambassadors are expected to be in attendance on the night.
"We're giving people the chance of being the first to sleep in this brand new luxury hotel and also give to charity, that's a great combination," Dr Schwartz told an industry journal.
"On October 3, just days before the city's biggest hotel opening in almost 20 years, 28 charities will each take a floor of the hotel in one of the most unique charity drives Australia has ever seen."
The Darling Harbour hotel will have striking features.
It will have a striking glass exterior with a triangular accent. The rooms will have floor-to-ceiling windows.
Added to that are three bars, a signature restaurant and the airy Club Millesime lounge for members. Located on the top floor it will offer sweeping city and harbour views.
There is also an outdoor infinity lap pool with views across Darling Harbour.
Schwartz is thinking of putting in a helipad.
by Leon Gettler, September 5th 2017
