Accor and global fund manager Salter Brothers have this week unveiled the new Novotel Sydney City Centre following a AU$20 million refurbishment of the former Mercure Sydney Wynyard.
Parisian design, cutting-edge technology and sustainable integration are at the heart of the hotel transformation.
“We’re delighted to elevate this hotel under the Novotel brand,” said Salter Brothers Managing Director, Paul Salter.
“Novotel resonates so well across the globe and is an instantly recognisable name in the midscale hotel space. I’m so proud of our team and what they’ve achieved with this property.”
The 283-room York Street hotel is the first Australian Novotel to present an innovative room concept from Novotel’s designers in Paris called ‘Hypothesis’, which aims to reduce waste – waste of materials, space and time.
Nature is reflected in the interior design concept, by Australian design studio Dezign, with all 22 floors featuring earthy carpets, wood detail panels, bespoke joinery and stone accents, while the lobby features emerald carpets and timber finishes.
Live greenery and natural lighting are a feature of every room, and Superior King Rooms with Balcony offer entertaining terraces.
Novotel Sydney City Centre. General Manager, Kim Stredder, said the new design in about helping guests achieve balance during their stay.
“Room furnishings are flexible allowing guests to customise their stays. We have created an environment that’s ideal for corporate travellers, families and couples. This level of dynamism in design will allow guests to truly create a home away from home, and an office away from the office.”
Modern technology is a key feature of the guest experience with the hotel being the first from Novotel in New South Wales to feature self-check-in kiosks. There are also digital compendiums in the rooms and QR codes can be used to access hotel services, such as room service.
The hotel’s sustainability efforts include the removal of single-use plastics – Purezza still and sparkling water taps are available in the bar – the use of natural amenities by Deep Nature and recycling bins in all rooms.
The hotel also features double-glazed windows for improved insulation and an ongoing food waste programme.
With a strong focus on family-friendly accommodation, the hotel offers 33 interconnecting rooms with King and Double Beds, and free stays for children up to the age of 16 stay when sharing a room with their parents. The hotel has also developed a special children’s menu and offers toys to entertain younger guests.
“Novotel is passionate about guests feeling relaxed during their Novotel experience, which includes not rushing the morning of check-out,” said Stredder.
“That’s why on Sunday a late 5 pm check-out is available for guests, which we know is a hit with families and tourists exploring the city or corporate travellers who need to continue working before an evening flight.”
Novotel Sydney City Centre will introduce more facilities in 2024 including the Novotel Fitness Studio, where guests can accumulate points while cycling; a new dining concept with a renowned Chef will launch in January, and a Pillow Menu is set to launch early in the New Year.