Hotel Palisade
This iconic hotel, situated in Millers Point, Sydney, has been serving patrons since the late 1800s. After being closed for seven years, it was reopened last year with a shiny new fit out that honours the building’s heritage. Curated by Sibella Court, the interior design exudes vintage charm, mixing old and new with a touch of luxury. Each level has its own personality. Whether you’re downstairs in the charmingly antiquated pub, the Dining Chamber with its Bentwood chairs and leather booth seating, or the exquisite Henry Deane room with its parquetry floors, pastel lounges and hints of brass all over, expect to be wowed.
The Rabbit Hole
This warehouse turned teahouse in Redfern, Sydney, takes a fresh approach to cafe culture and it’s evident in its design. Quirky installations such as the oversized teabag art from Valeria Burgoa represent the underlying Japanese Kintsugi influence, celebrating the beauty of imperfection. Whitewashed walls and exposed brick blend seamlessly with abstract mosaics and bursts of bright yellow, a unique style executed by Matt Woods Design.
The Ugly Duckling
This handsome new addition, wittily located on Swan Street in Richmond, Victoria, boasts an alluring new dining hotspot crafted by interior design specialists Hecker Guthrie. Once home to Melbourne’s first department store, the industrial charm remains, softened by natural materials and pared-back hues. Juxtaposed with the dark and moody bar, the heritage-listed glass atrium at the rear could be mistaken for a greenhouse, only adding to the natural beauty of this venue.
Hacienda
Even the panoramic views of Sydney harbour can’t take away from the lavish design of Hacienda, a plantation-style bar situated within the Circular Quay Hotel. A pastel palette, leather and velvet lounges, brass hardware and an abundance of lush greenery serves up a luxe Cuban flavour with a holiday vibe.