1888 Hotel, Sydney, Australia

The 1888 Hotel is a heritage listed 90 bedroom boutique hotel, eatery, bar & event space. Originally constructed in 1888 as a warehouse for wool storage, the building, located in inner city Pyrmont, has undergone a $30 million redevelopment and was re-launched late last year.  The renovation was undertaken by  Chris Haughton of SHED Architects.

Meticulously restored, the contemporary design of the hotel is distinctly Australian and respectful of the building’s 19th century heritage. The hotel rooms feature 3m high ceilings, exposed brick walls, original Iron Bark Beams, large sound proofed period windows, bespoke furniture and artwork by Australian artists.  Repurposed ironbark recovered during the initial stages of the redevelopment features throughout the rooms and public areas, and has even used in desks, shelving and as panelling.

Interior designer Cressida Kennedy from Space Control Design has used timber, polished concrete, steel, bronze, marble and an eclectic collection of vintage pieces, including restored 1950s, 60s and 70s lounge chairs.

The building’s heritage features are complemented nicely by the urban industrial style reflected in the careful introduction of bespoke furniture, colourful and contemporary artwork, as well as the use of glass and steel. A modern five-storey internal atrium fills the boutique hotel with natural light, and overall the building nicely blends old-world charm with a chic and contemporary feel.

Moving with the times, the unique interior design has led 1888 Hotel to become the world’s first “Instagram hotel” and it now offers a range of specials for guests (including a free night’s accommodation for taking a great Instagram shot with the hashtag #1888Hotel), and even has a wall of Instagram photos and a special place for 1888 ‘selfies’ in the hotel.

Click here to learn more about what this special space has to offer.