The Russell Boutique Hotel has reopened in The Rocks following an extensive renovation of the 19th century, heritage-listed building on the corner of George St and the cobblestoned Globe St in Sydney.
The property, which was a hospital in the 1800s, has been carefully updated to ensure its longevity for decades to come, while also balancing its old-world charm with modern-day luxuries.
Each of the hotel’s 28 rooms have their own unique size and design. Striking wallpaper – many with an Australiana theme – adorns the walls, while custom-made upholstered bedheads, joinery, curtains and refurbished bathrooms have revitalised the spaces.
But for everything that is new, Steve Speed says there is just as much that pays homage to the building and culturally-rich surroundings of The Rocks.
“The Russell Boutique Hotel remains, at its core, a hotel that is steeped in history and that’s something we were committed to honouring throughout this renovation,” Speed said.
“Each room has its own pieces of antique furniture that complement the existing architectural heritage features within them, from the original and ornate marble fireplaces to the architraves and working pull-up windows.
“Imagine waking up in a centuries-old building, in one of Sydney’s most historic locations, just a stone’s throw from some iconic Australian landmarks.”
Views to Harbour bridge
A restored sitting room and spacious rooftop, with views towards the Harbour bridge, provides additional spaces for guests to relax and unwind. Plush, one-of-a-kind carpet lines the hallways and changes from pink to green to help guests navigate between the different levels.
The team has also created a line of hotel bathroom amenities – which occupy each room and are available to buy – as well as a signature scent inspired by native Australian flowers.
Hot and cold Zip water taps are located on each floor, tea comes with an inspirational quote and a turn-down service, with chocolates, is a regular feature.
It’s that attention to detail, personalised, old-school hospitality and location among the sandstone buildings that Steve Speed says makes The Russell Boutique Hotel special.
“We’ve thought about everything, so our guests don’t have to,” Speed added. “We want this to be a place where people feel just as comfortable here as they do at home, but where they’re also able to put their feet up as our team looks after them.
“Our motto is that guests will arrive as strangers but leave as friends.”
All-day dining
The Russell Boutique Hotel offers a complete stay-and-dine experience, with breakfast at the Fortune of War’s new venue, Bistro 1828, also included.
Guests can take the grand winding staircase down to the 60-seat bistro, adjoining the original pub, and be in the history of Sydney’s oldest continuously licensed public hotel while feasting on smashed avo on toast, eggs benedict or the Fortune of War big breakfast, alongside its signature Bloody Mary.
New executive chef Mark Williamson (ex The Woollahra Hotel) has also expanded and elevated the pub’s all-day dining menu.
Guests can also expect all the classic pub favourites they know and love – like the hearty beef and Guinness stew and bangers and mash – as well as new and exciting options like share plates, fresh salads, pastas and steaks, to suit every taste and budget.
Rooms at The Russell Boutique Hotel start at $300 – and include breakfast at Bistro 1828 – with special deals available when booking directly at their website.
Bistro 1828 is open from 7am until late, seven days a week, with bookings available, while the pub is open from 9am until late.
