Waking up to a crisp winter morning in Adelaide, there’s nothing quite like an early dash to the airport, the frantic ordering of a coffee to warm the soul, and the quick step to my flight that somehow is already boarding, despite my alarm going off on time. Then suddenly all is calm. The plane is on its way to Sydney, I’m headed to a new, fashionable hotel, and the caffeine is hitting its mark. All is good with the world.
Today marks the launch of the “Meet The Creatives” partnerships at West Hotel, which is a new boutique accommodation option, and part of the Curio Collection by Hilton.
Certainly another good reason to visit Sydney.
The hotel is visually stunning. A destination in itself. And today’s launch brings together a flurry of fashion influencers and media, alongside special guests Weave Dibden-Neck and Jack Phillips, who are the design creatives behind Sydney brands By Weave and ukiyo-co, and Eight Eight.
A feast for the senses, today we not only get to explore this amazing hotel, and sample its menu, but we’re also being treated to a sneak-peek of their limited edition West Hotel collaborative pieces & a look at the By Weave Spring Collection in the West Hotel’s luscious atrium and botanically inspired Solander Dining and Bar.
First impressions don’t disappoint.
The hotel is the perfect setting for the event that’s about to take place.
Wrapped around a hidden interior garden, which is easily the highlight of the hotel for me – their ‘Atrium’ – the ground floor also hosts the stylish Solander Dining and Bar, which is playing host to today’s launch.
Upstairs are 182 beautiful guests rooms, including four spacious suites. But downstairs is where today’s excitement is happening.
Thoroughly designer, with beautiful décor and design features throughout, the venue effortlessly envelops the fashion crowd that mingles at the bar.
The new collaboration between this recently opened, sophisticated hotel, and the designers, Jack Phillips and Weave Didben-Neck, kicks off a new Weekend Getaway accommodation package offering. But that isn’t the focus of the luncheon.
It’s really to showcase the hotel itself, and the designers. The packages are just the bonus, for anyone who is thinking of spending a night or seven in Sydney, and want to be close to the action, but in a sanctuary that shields them from the excitable buzz that’s outside, in one of Sydney’s newest hot spots – Barangaroo.
A preview of Weave’s new Spring Collection sets the tone for the day, with a glamorous range floating on demure models, past the long table set up as we dined. Metallics, floral prints and white lace were all prominent, luring us out of Winter, and into the warmer months.
The finale piece was a wearable artwork that Weave has created to be displayed in the hotel. A wood and fibre nod to the Waratah, and a fitting union between fashion, art and meaning.
Then the collaborative pieces were revealed, and warmly embraced. Both Jack and Weave have designed their own bespoke, limited edition fashion items, incorporating the striking white Waratah artwork, seen throughout West Hotel, created by notable Australian botanical artist Heidi Willis. And best of all, these pieces will be given to customers staying at the hotel in August (conditions apply).
Eight Eight has designed a suave, 33cm silk pocket square for men, with a hand-stitch finish featuring the hotel’s signature motif. Phillips explained that the theatre of the piece was a hint of the design, which would be on display when worn, allowing the wearer to whisk it out of their pocket to unveil the full artwork on the silk. A real talking point.
Weave has crafted an elegant lounging robe for women, synonymous with ukiyo-co’s stylish lifestyle lounge-wear made from natural fires, adorned with the Waratah. A perfect lightweight addition to your wardrobe and possibly something you can even wear outside your boudoir if accessorized right.
The fashionable pieces will be a bonus edition, available to West Hotel guests as part of its Weekend Getaway accommodation package, with the first 100 bookings receiving one of these gifts. The package includes overnight accommodation, breakfast, a late check-out and the opportunity to Earn Double Hilton Honours Points. Packages start from $274 per room, per night.
West Hotel is located at 65 Sussex Street in Barangaroo, a couple of blocks back from the water and an abundant restaurant precinct, and a short stroll from Darling Harbour.
TIPS:
The mini bar includes complimentary water and long life milk for your in-room tea/coffee making facilities, but it’s well worth heading downstairs and trying the amazing cocktails, great coffee and T2 tea at Salamander.
There’s a small ironing board and iron in the room, but I prefer to bring a travel steamer with me when I go to hotels as those ironing boards drive me mad.
Make the most of the Bluetoom-enabled audio/visual technology in the rooms. It’s not obvious that it’s there, but it’s a great way to enjoy your own music and shows straight from your phone or laptop.
Take a moment to relax in the garden atrium. It’s truly a great way to unwind.
I didn’t get time to check out the gym, but there is one if that’s your thing.
This isn’t a hotel I’d take my kids to – I’d bring my partner here for a romantic weekend away, or stay here on a business trip.
Sign up for the Hilton Honours program so you can access the free wifi. If you’re not a Hilton Honours member (it’s free to join) you end up paying around $16 for basic daily access or $20 for higher download speeds.
Bring your walking shoes. There’s plenty of great things to explore in the area and it’s all walking distance!
Visit the West Hotel website for more info and to book.
Disclaimer: Kelly was invited to stay as a guest at West Hotel, but was not paid for her review. Her opinions and review are her own.
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