Plans for rooftop penthouses for Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour are forging ahead, with the new additions to be located within the area originally intended for a helipad.
The hotel’s owner, Dr Jerry Schwartz, has lodged the DA to add two penthouses, covering two levels, to the top of the hotel. Each will have four-bedrooms, one with a lap pool, above the existing executive lounge, with exclusive lift access.
Although original approval was for a 38-storey building, only 35 floors were constructed as Schwartz had proposed adding a helicopter landing pad on top of the hotel. However, after authorities refused to sign off on the helipad, Schwartz is pursuing this alternative option.
“I think it was a short-sighted decision to deprive Sydney of a helipad as the Sofitel would have been the ideal location for installing such a facility,” Schwartz said.
“However, we’ve always had the capacity to add extra floors to the building in line with the original DA approval and with Sydney now rebuilding its international tourism and business markets, this is the ideal time to add luxury accommodation.
“The Sofitel enjoys a commanding position overlooking Darling Harbour and the city, which would make the penthouses prime accommodation for discerning visitors. With five ensuite bedrooms each they will be ideal for families, groups and those seeking the absolute finest in hospitality.”
When it opened in 2017, the 590 room Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour became the first new-build luxury hotel in Sydney’s CBD of the 21st century. Since then, it has progressively added luxury features including Sydney’s first dedicated champagne bar and a day spa.
