AccorHotels, in partnership with real estate developer Shanghai United, is set to manage a new-build luxury boutique MGallery by Sofitel hotel in Sydney.

The new-build AUD$120 million-plus Porter House Hotel, MGallery by Sofitel, will be located on the corner block of 110-118 Bathurst and 203 Castlereagh Streets as part of a AUD$380 million mixed-use development.

The project will comprise a new build 36-storey tower with a 121-room hotel housed over Levels 1-9 with 131 residential apartments above on Levels 10-34.

Designed by Candelapas and Associates architects, The Porter House Hotel, MGallery by Sofitel and residential apartments will interweave the existing 1870s Heritage-Listed Porter House adjacent to the tower, which will be thoughtfully redeveloped as part of the project.

The Porter House will feature four levels of additional facilities, including lobby, pool and fitness centre, two restaurants, a fourth floor bar with roving art gallery, meeting and private dining facilities and a business centre. Valet parking will also be provided for all cars.

The 121 guest rooms and suites in the new tower will take their cue from the heritage building with thoughtful use of materials and detailing, including beautifully stitched rich leathers, unique bronze glass round showers, polished metal accents, timber and heritage-inspired decorative tiles.

AccorHotels’ Chief Operating Officer – Pacific, Simon McGrath, said: “We are thrilled to develop a new strategic partnership with Shanghai United on this landmark development for Sydney’s CBD.

“The Sydney hotel sector is the strongest in Australia with consistent occupancy levels in the mid-high 80% range and average rates growing sharply.

“This new MGallery by Sofitel hotel will stand to greatly benefit from the tourism and infrastructure boom we are currently seeing with projects such as the International Convention Centre and light rail development.

“A new boutique hotel such as this will provide both business and leisure travellers with a new luxury boutique experience in Sydney, whether they visit for conferences, events, cultural or sporting events.

“The Porter House Hotel, MGallery by Sofitel, is set in prime position to take advantage of the brand’s growing global presence backed by AccorHotels powerful distribution, digital platforms and growing loyalty program,” McGrath said.

Construction on The Porter House Hotel, MGallery by Sofitel will commence in early 2018 with completion expected in December 2020.

James Wilkinson

Editor-In-Chief, Hotel Management