InterContinental Hotel Sydney
The hotel’s rooftop Aster Bar with view of the Royal Botanic Gardens. Image courtesy of InterContinental Sydney by IHG.
Where City and Nature Collide
The InterContinental Hotel Sydney underwent a once-in-a-generation revitalisation in 2022, the result of a close collaboration between Woods Bagot, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, owner Mulpha Australia, and construction partner Built. The transformation included extensive heritage restoration alongside a complete redesign of all 509 rooms and suites, each thoughtfully reimagined to elevate the guest experience and appeal to both international and local visitors. As part of the renewal, several artisans were commissioned to showcase Australian design and craftsmanship, including pieces by Studio Enti.
In the luxury suites and guest rooms, a bold blue and green palette, reflecting the lush tones of sub-tropical Sydney, was introduced to connect with the surrounding landscape and harbour views. Meanwhile, the hotel’s public areas were designed to honour and reflect the original historical architecture. Today, the hotel continues to be recognised with notable global accolades including Inside World Festival of Interiors, Restaurant & Bar Design, FX International Interior Design Awards, Australian Interior Design Awards, Eat Drink Design and many more.
The InterContinental Hotel’s Treasury Bar & Dining. From the entrance to the suites, the interior design and furnishings reflect the luscious Royal Botanic Gardens with landscaping by Adam Robinson Design. Photography by Trevor Mein.
“In the guest rooms, embracing the tonal layering of a blue and green palette was a bold approach which works incredibly well in connecting with the amazing views. It’s a strong departure from the standard beige on beige you so often see in modern properties.”
- Woods Bagot Interior Design Leader Tracey Wiles
Amenity trays for ensuites.
Custom Design Pieces
Studio Enti was commissioned for the large-scale project to design various vases and amenity trays for each of the InterContinental Hotel Sydney’s luxury suites and accommodation. With a total of 1200 pieces delivered, the custom ceramics complement the hotel’s design vision: with striking views of Sydney Harbour and its landmarks such as the iconic Royal Botanic Gardens and Circular Quay – alongside grand furnishings and personal touches – each suite embodies its own unique character.
The small round vase referencing the blue and green accents in the hotel rooms.
Image courtesy of InterContinental Sydney by IHG. Click to see the luxury suites.
