The InterContinental Sydney hotel has been transformed with a comprehensive redesign by the Woods Bagot team, led by Anthony Chow. This project restores and modernises the majesty of the rooms, common areas, restaurants and bars of this prestigious five-star hotel with a 171-year-old heritage. A meticulous aesthetic overhaul has brought it up to date.

“Prior to the refurbishment, the atrium and the bar area were cluttered and complex. Our aim was to simplify the seating area and to vary the heights of the seats to give the bar a focal point,” says the studio. The integration and harmony between the old and new elements were crucial to achieving the desired result.

To create this contemporary opulent effect, the ultra-compact Dekton stone was used in a variety of spaces and applications. Its colours and technical features were in keeping with the hotel’s time-honoured aesthetic.

We asked the project managers why they chose Dekton. The answer was as thorough as his work: “The performance requirements of the different surfaces were paramount. The key for InterContinental was to find a durable and sturdy material,” they explain. In this project, Dekton Entzo is used in such a versatile way that it forms the bars in the catering areas, as well as the shelves that serve as display units.

“For example, the pantry in the halls is a rather complex area as it consists of cold and hot sections, so we wanted a stone surface that was not only aesthetically pleasing but also provided good performance for the integrated heating and cooling systems in the dairy section,” they point out.

Faced with a project of great scale and responsibility due to the historic nature of the Sydney building, the architects and interior designers stressed the importance of visiting the Cosentino City showroom when choosing this material. “It was important for us. A good understanding of how the material works was essential. Working with the Cosentino team has been fantastic. They were open to collaborating and contributing ideas on installation, specifications, etc., throughout the project,” they explain.

They came away from this visit with two clear ideas. On the one hand, Dekton Entzo’s marbled veined pattern would be used in the hotel’s main dining rooms to create an intrinsically luxurious look. On the other hand, the dark tones of Dekton Kelya would surprise guests and customers in the check-out area with a stylish counter. The perfect match.