The best boutique design hotels in Sydney that you need to stay at pronto
There ain't nothing better than a sexy AF hotel room to make a holiday, and we've found the spots in Sydney.
Yes, we love checking in at the sleekest hotels in Hong Kong, the trendiest hotels in the UK, and the world’s most sustainable hotels, but isn’t Straya something special?! Sydney, Sydney, Sydney – oh, how we love to love you. From the golden sands of Bondi to Surry Hills and beyond; your colourful streets, great F&B scene and vibrant nightlife get us every time. In fact, we might just say that you’re one of our fave cities in the world. And if you’re planning a visit, then you definitely need to book in at one of the best boutique design hotels in Sydney to get the full experience.
Be sure to tune into our Aussie Spotify playlist as you explore this gem.
The best boutique design hotels in Sydney
1. The Old Clare Hotel
Housed inside two heritage-listed buildings, namely the Carlton & United Breweries Administration Building and The Clare Hotel, this 62-room boutique property features beautifully restored interiors of both.
They’ve recently opened seven new rooms in the renovated north wing that are inspired by the Art Deco features of the property, and these add to the other design aesthetics: industrial and contemporary.
The Clare is both the lobby bar and the place where local artists, students and intellectuals like a drink, while the rooftop offers a place to relax complete with swimming pool and bar. On top of that, there are three other restaurants at which to get fed at.
Find out more about The Old Clare Hotel
2. The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
Formerly a Westin brand property, The Fullerton Hotel has recently opened in Sydney, the SIngapore hospitality group’s first operation in Australia. Housed in the absolutely gorgeous former General Post Office building in the heart of the CBD, this luxe five-star hotel is sure to fast become one of the jewels in the city’s crown.
Guests can choose to stay in classically-inspired accommodation in the heritage building or contemporary rooms in the high-rise section of the building. Our pick is the beautiful Heritage Long Suite that is housed within the former postmaster’s office and features hardwood glossy floors and a dining area for six.
A restaurant serving a selection of international dishes, a bar, a gym and a number of event spaces also feature at the property, alongside a stunning grand staircase that needs to be seen to be believed.
Find out more about The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
3. Hotel Ravesis
If you’ve travelled to Sydney for your Bondi Beach experience, you’ll be wanting to check-in at Hotel Ravesis. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the internationally renowned beach (and all the hot people who frequent it) this design-led hotel features two floors of boutique accommodation all decked out in yummy sorbet hues.
Each of the 12 rooms onsite are uniquely designed, with some offering views directly to the beach. As far as entertainment goes, there’s a beachside public bar, an indoor dining area and even a plush late-night club so you can really mingle with the locals.
Find out more about Hotel Ravesis
4. Ovolo Woolloomooloo
Trendy hotel brand Ovolo has won over many a heart at its Woolloomooloo property. Sitting right on the harbour, the fresh, modern and totally Instagrammable interior here is the stuff that Instagram dreams are made of.
Guestrooms feature quirky and colourful design details, with some offering views of the Sydney skyline. There’s even a split-level suite (complete with cocktail bar) with views over the wharf. Dine at Alibi or feast on room service and don’t miss taking a dip in the 24-hour indoor pool.
Learn more about Ovolo Woolloomooloo
5. Crystalbrook Albion
Part of the Crystalbrook Collection that has properties across Byron Bay, Cairns and Sydney, Crystalbrook Albion is a design lovers paradise. Positioned in the artsy Surry Hills district of the city, this boutique hotel is housed in a heritage building that was once a school convent.
No two of the guestrooms are the same, and the hotel has been designed to feel like your home away from home. The interior design here blends modern and classic effortlessly, with a range of textures and colours giving each space its own vibe. Or book the entire house, featuring 35 rooms and sleeping 70, and enjoy it for your very own special event or sleepover.
Read more about Crystalbrook Albion
6. Paramount House Hotel
Calling all cinema lovers! This rare beauty is housed in the former headquarters of Paramount Picture Studios. Offering a range of guestrooms all thoughtfully designed in a blend of contemporary and vintage styles, we love the fact the mini bars are packed full of locally-sourced beers, wine and cheeses.
Co-tenants of the property include Golden Age Cinema (for all your movie needs), Paramount Coffee Project (for caffeine injections) and Paramount Recreation Club, the rooftop space that features a fitness pavilion where guests can enjoy a range of small group classes during their stay.
Learn more about Paramount House Hotel
7. Establishment Hotel
If you like to discover hidden gems, then Establishment Hotel should definitely be on your Sydney must-stay list. Nestled away on a lane that is home to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars, this beautifully designed property perches above, hidden in plain sight.
Home to 31 suites, this unique hotel is housed in a historic building that was once the home to a well-known publishing house. Guests can expect exposed rustic beams, high ceilings and stunning cast iron fixtures here, as well as spacious guestrooms with all the mod-cons.
Find out more about Establishment Hotel
8. Hotel Palisade
Oh-la-la! Hotel Palisade brings beautiful design to its port-side location, with each room imbued with perfect finesse. Just eight guestrooms are on offer here, each featuring hand-painted seascape murals by artist Neil Mallard. Some of the rooms have sweeping views of the harbour, while others loo onto neighbouring Bangaroo Reserve.
Hungry? Eat at the adjoining Public House or take cocktails at Henry Deane, whatever you do, you’ll be living life up well at Hotel Palisade.
Learn more about Hotel Palisade
9. Sydney Park Hotel
Fancy checking-in at a heritage pub? Sydney Park Hotel has been a working-class drinking hole for decades, and that still remains the primary focus of this boutique accommodation that sits on the corner of Newtown’s King Street. Sitting across the street from St Peters train station, this property is the perfect base to explore the city and the building itself is heritage listed.
Upstairs however, a floor of eight beautifully designed guestrooms are begging to be stayed in, complete with original art pieces, a blend of vintage and bespoke furniture and locally sourced ephemera to give an extra pop of love to the place. The Terrace House, the largest of them all, features two bedrooms, a lounge, a kitchen, a laundry and even a wee courtyard in which to gather at the end of the day.
Read more about Sydney Park Hotel here
10. The Urban Newtown
It’s all about location, location, location at this Sydney gem. Sitting pretty in the eclectic Newtown district, this hotel has some of the best F&B experiences at its doorstep. Inside, an industrial design aesthetic has been used across the boutique studio rooms giving an edgy feel to the accommodations. Each guestroom also has a kitchenette complete with Nespresso machine and facilities for making easy meals.
Discover more about The Urban Newtown
11. Little National Hotel Sydney
Home to 230 rooms and in the heart of the bustling Barangaroo district, Little National Hotel Sydney offers guests a welcome respite from the bustling city. The rooms here are compact but don’t compromise on design or amenities, with local Australian brands such as Appelles Apothecary & Lab and Who Gives a Crap products in the bathroom. Head to the rooftop bar to unwind after a day of exploring and enjoy the open fire in the cooler months.
Learn more about Little National Hotel Sydney
12. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel
If it’s a quintessential Sydney beach vacay that you’re hunting down, look no further than the iconic Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel. Famed for its year-round events, sun seekers will love the fresh seafood platters, beverages, and relaxed vibes here. Home to just 32 rooms, guests can expect a laidback approach to the interiors, envisioned by designer Sibella Court.
Learn more about Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel
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