Having managed more than 45 hotel projects and delivered 6,800 keys with a capital value in excess of $500 million, our team has extensive experience across hotel projects.
Heading into the festive season we reflect on the top five favourite hotel projects we’ve delivered, based on the following criteria: project complexity, design innovation and community significance.
It’s no surprise Australia’s gateway city and largest accommodation market, Sydney, has two projects on the shortlist. This year, the cosmopolitan city enjoyed 86% hotel occupancy rate, peaking at 87.7% in March.
Radisson Blu
The 1850’s icon was the former home of publishing house John Fairfax & Sons, and Bank of New South Wales. Nowadays, the heritage charm is complemented by 364 luxuriously appointed guest rooms. Owners, TA Global committed to a $12M refurbishment, completed in 2016 that included business amenity, room upgrades and F&B. Designed by Bates Smart, the project was completed over two stages, with Intrec building the public spaces and Shape constructing the rooms. It was completed within a live operating environment.
Ovolo 1888
The $2.7M upgrade by asset owner Hind Group, reflected their Ovolo brand design guidelines and aspirations to create a legacy product in the Australian market. Refurbished by Shape in 2016, and designed by Luchetti Krelle, the upgrade included 98 guestrooms, bathroom F&F, guest corridors and hotel branding.
InterContinental at Rialto Heritage Refurbishment
The $70M development was designed by Joseph Pang and built by Equiset as an integrated fit out, in 2008, on behalf of Eureka Funds Management. The stunning 253 room hotel, is characterised by the Venetian Gothic Façade and complemented by the F&B offering. It remains a destination for both visitors to Melbourne and local style hunters.
Moorilla Pavilions
Moorilla Pavilions was created to service Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art. This is a true example of design-led development, with the theme ‘Art and Antiques’. The 5-star accommodation, designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects, embraces the owner’s vision and desire for architecture, and provides guests with a sophisticated feel against a priceless setting. With views of the Derwent River, the eight pavilions also feature private cellars, an indoor pool and gymnasium.
Ayers Rock Resort
The $29.5M upgrade of Sails in the Desert included a 228-room refurbishment program, a new 1,400m2 conference centre, as well as the refurbishment of public spaces including the main restaurant, bar, the reception area, retail space, commercial kitchen, meeting rooms and the multi-function space. Located in the heart of the red centre, the hotel contrasts Uluru’s natural beauty with a luxury outback experience.
Accommodating visitors from around the globe, the 5-star Hotel set the benchmark for luxury, when completed in 2012.