Manly hotel gets art deco makeover

The Hotel Steyne on Sydney’s Manly Beach has undergone a $3 million renovation, with designers Rachel Luchetti and Stuart Krelle of specialist hospitality design firm Luchetti Krelle, making sure to maintain its heritage.

The original building was first erected on the site in 1859, but burnt down in the 1930s.

It replaced by the current heritage-listed building, which has a distinctly European feel. 

The café, bistro and sports bar were all refurbished.

The adjoining 1930s building was also renovated and extended to include more guest suites, which have doubled to 42. It was painted in a pale pink, inspired by a Miami-style 1930’s courtyard. Black and white striped umbrellas bridge the two buildings which are now clearly defined.

A new canopy fronting the main pedestrian walkway is a highlight inspired by images of the hotel from the 1930s.

A new reception area is one of the most notable changes made and it forms part of the hotel’s café.

The interior and guest suites have been designed with Luchetti Krelle applying a contemporary version of the classic 1930’s interior that already existed.

“This arrangement is more aligned to the hotel’s demographic, as a four-star hip hotel,” said Ms Luchetti.

Further highlights include deep leather lounges, banquette-style seating and the use of subtle 1930s paint colours and an art deco feeling throughout.

A newly painted wall mural depicting a 1930s beach scene, complete with seagulls, adds to the ambience.

The owner of the hotel was pleased to see the Steyne’s heritage preserved.

“When you start researching projects such as this one, you make discoveries that take you in a certain direction,” said Ms Luchetti.

“He owns a number of hotels across Sydney, but he sees the Steyne as the jewel in the crown.”

16th March 2021