BACKGROUND
The Langham Sydney underwent a four-month renovation in August last year, reopening its doors in December. Leading London-based interior and architectural firm GA Design upgraded all 98 rooms and suites, as well as the lobby, dining outlets and ballroom. Signature luxuries Chuan Spa and Palm Court were also introduced, bringing the hotel in line with its international sister properties.
WHAT’S IT LIKE?
I didn’t realise that I had arrived at the hotel when the taxi stopped, as the three-storey building stands together with other two- or three-storey houses in the same street, so it does not stand out to those visiting for the first time. The entrance and lobby are flooded with natural light, and guests reach the front desk after passing elegant and custom-made furnishings at the centre of this space.
WHERE IS IT?
On the less crowded Kent Street, at Millers Point in the historic Rocks district. Public transport does not stop near the hotel, so a taxi is the easiest way to get there. It takes 30 minutes from the airport. It’s best to tell the taxi driver the street name rather than the hotel name.
ROOM FACILITIES
The lifts are in the middle of the building and rooms are on the left and right. I couldn’t see a room number guide and needed to check the first three room doors to make sure I was headed in the right direction to room 132. I stayed in the 49 sqm Grand Langham Room, which overlooks the Western Harbour via a window adorned with Parisian-style shutters. The bedroom is spacious, with a 2.1 metre-wide super-king bed complete with six pillows. There are two mini benches in front of the bed.
A sofa and short table are close to the bed, while a round table and two armchairs are placed opposite the sofa.
A dressing table is on the other side of the bed. Although not very big, there is space to place a laptop and do some paperwork, however the chair does not have a back and you cannot recline while working, so I recommend using the round table if you plan to be working for any length of time.
There is a USB panel on the wall near the round table, which is perfect to charge an iPad while you are working. On the table, there is a copy of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland – a slim volume that offers something to read before bed if you haven’t brought your own book. There is also information about “Langham Bikes”, a service that allows guests to hire a Reid Griffon Promax road bike or the hotel’s signature Pink Fixie to explore the city. The hotel can also prepare a picnic box with chicken and avocado wrap, ham and cheese croissant, potato crisps, French macaroons, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and orange juice and mineral water. The cost is A$60 (US$44).
There are plenty of power outlets but you need an adaptor. The room comes with a safe, iron and ironing board, espresso coffee machine, iPod and a TV providing all the usual cable channels. The bathroom is large, with a bathtub and separate shower room complete with Chuan Spa bath kits.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS
Palm Court is the social hub of the hotel, a lounge that offers afternoon tea and provides signature Langham cocktails at the bar. The Kent Street Kitchen features a modern European menu prepared with local produce. The 100-seat restaurant also has a freestanding wine collection and a white marble chef’s table.
BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES
The hotel provides a 232 sqm Grand Ballroom and a connected 110 sqm Drawing Room, perfect for long-table dinners, cocktail parties and casual meetings. There are also two smaller meeting rooms, the Boardroom and The Parlour, both featuring ground-level harbour views and suitable for up to 10 people.
LEISURE FACILITIES
Located in the basement, the Day Spa offers facials, massages and body treatments. There is also a gym room, spa bath, steam room, a 20-metre indoor swimming pool and tennis courts.
VERDICT
The staff were very helpful and polite. The location, view and comfort level made me feel like I was indulging in a luxury holiday.
FACT FILE
- HOW MANY ROOMS? There are 98 rooms: 77 Grand Langham Rooms (49 sqm); eight Junior Suites (58 sqm); 11 Langham Suites (78 sqm); one Residence two-bedroom apartment (110 sqm); and one Observatory one-bedroom suite (122 sqm).
- HIGHLIGHTS The fantastic view of Western Harbour. Staff are very friendly.
- PRICE Internet rates for a Grand Langham Room in mid-October start from A$496 (US$363) per night, which includes taxes, fees and wifi.
- CONTACT The Langham Sydney 89-113 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia, langhamhotels.com
