June 16, 2021 | By Joyce DiMascio
As corporate hotels go, the Hilton Sydney continues to be amongst the best in Sydney.
Since 1975, this landmark site has flown the Hilton flag and been part of one of the oldest hotel chains in the world.
Its owners are hugely invested in the property which has been given a $25 million dollar sprucing up. It’s now “event ready” as corporate events slowly return to the city.
The renovation of its 587 rooms was completed in 2020 but COVID-19 got in the way so it was reopened last year as a quarantine hotel. But that chapter of community service ended in January and it is now welcoming back the critically important meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions market.
Commercial Director, Blair Weir walked Joyce DiMascio through the grand dame of Sydney business hotels.
There’s something very special about the Hilton Sydney. Actually there are many things that are very special about the Hilton Sydney.
The scale, the architecture and design, the location, its Luke Mangan hatted restaurant Glass, the bars and public areas, the magnificent art – and the utterly professional staff that ooze warmth and hospitality.
A visit to the Hilton Sydney is a reminder of why this hotel deserves its status as a special place in the business events landscape. It’s robust and stylish – spend some time here and you’ll discover many treasures to delight the senses.
The feel is modern, fresh and arty. And if you are an organiser – you know you’ll be in safe hands. This place has history and pedigree.
Its art collection is substantial and includes major statement commissions like The Vine, a sculpture located in the main lobby. It was created by the late Australian artist, Bronwyn Oliver. The spectacular 16.5 metre installation was built from 350kg of aluminium and is part of an extensive collection of art throughout the building,
The art – beautiful hand-made works by artists of different genres – gives Hilton Sydney its personality and creates points of interest on its vast walls and surfaces.
In the latest makeover, every room has been refurbished and decorated with works by three Australian artists. The renewed décor, soft furnishings, carpets and window seats have totally modernised the rooms providing good quality for a business hotel. The bedding is sumptuous.
There is a range of room sizes which provides a mix of price points for conference delegates and stakeholders.
Bathrooms were given a tidy-up but not renovated so are perhaps the least impressive feature of the rooms. The mini bars are not available at present due to its Covid safety protocols.
It’s taking safety seriously and has partnered with RB, makers of Lysol and Dettol, to help deliver the Hilton CleanStay program. Their literature says it “builds on our already rigorous cleaning standards to provide complete peace of mind when you stay with any of Hilton’s 18 brands”.
A big plus for event organisers, is its convenient location right in the heart of the central business, retail and entertainment districts. Town Hall station is minutes away and light rail is on its doorstep at QVB. Getting to the hotel is easy by public transport, hired or private vehicles.
However, Hilton Sydney’s trump card, is its relationship with the glorious Queen Victoria Building.