Count sheep from the dreamy suites at The Woolstore 1888
I’ve lost count how many times I’ve stayed at this Sydney hotel over the past 10 years. The hotel opened its doors in July 2013 after a $30 million redevelopment, delivering a five-story, ninety-room boutique hotel, playing homage to its wool store heritage, while injecting some serious style to these designer digs.
The result is an industrial luxe blend of exposed brick, concrete, ironbark beams, pillars, period windows and splashes of colour to celebrate the buildings biography. Each room’s heritage foundation has been carefully layered with modern design elements, where no two rooms feel the same, so you can come back time and time again and discover something new.
First Impressions of The Woolstore 1888
From sunny Pyrmont, step inside and let your eyes adjust to the cool, dark interiors of this heritage chic boutique hotel. The industrial vibe and soaring ceilings provide a feeling of space amongst the eclectic collection of vintage decor in the lobby lounge.
The entry has the usual Ovolo touches including signature silver egg wall and unlimited sweets from the candy station. Grab a handful as you breeze through to the low-key reception desk, where efficient staff in hushed tones welcome you back. The lobby is dominated by an inviting restaurant and bar area featuring scattered lounges, low tables and dark clandestine corners, but more on Mister Percy’s later.
Rooms at The Woolstore 1888
Be whisked up to your room via the glass walled lifts and enter the comfort zone of your room. On this stay, I’ve been allocated an accessible king room which is more spacious than the standard rooms and features a large walk in rain shower. Room types range from the 15sqm Shoebox to 39-49sqm suites called Shaken & Stirred.
The room features a comfy king bed, internal atrium outlook, recycled timber desk, Smart TV with Apple TV to access your own streaming services and a personalised welcome message.
If you’re a regular Ovolo traveller, you’ll notice a few differences here. The Woolstore 1888 is part of the Ovolo Collective, these more boutique properties in the portfolio have a few less perks, so you’ll be sans “Loot Bag” and the paired back minibar looks a little barren with just water and Coke on offer. Never mind, more reason to head downstairs to Mister Percy’s.
Drinking & Dining at Mister Percy’s
Downstairs restaurant, Mister Percy’s hums from day to night serving weary travellers and city revellers alike an all day dining menu from nourishing breakfast through to evening tipple. The barista’s coffee skills were on point, keeping a steady flow of guests caffeinated for the day ahead.
We didn’t get a chance to sample the wine selection or artisanal cocktail creations on this visit, but you can be sure we’ll be back. With fare to share and a carefully curated wine list, it’s not hard to see why Mister Percy’s is a Pyrmont neighbourhood favourite.
Sustainability
Ovolo has a “Do Good, Feel Good” philosophy, which covers caring for the community, treading lightly with energy and resources, sustainable sourcing and good governance. This is followed through to guests with one of the hotel “perks “ listed as a tree will be planted.
Stepping Out
The Woolstore 1888 is our top pick for Darling Harbour accommodation, especially if you’re attending an event at the ICC (International Convention Centre). With a little local knowledge, you can cut through the carpark opposite the hotel and arrive on the doorstep of the ICC in minutes.
You’re also just moments from Sydney Lyric Theatre if you’re in town to catch a show.
The Verdict
Whether counting sheep from the dreamy suites or enjoying sophisticated sips from the lobby lounge, The Woolstore 1888 makes the perfect base for delegates attending events at the ICC or travellers exploring Sydney.
The Woolstore 1888
139 Murray Street, Pyrmont NSW 2009
Book The Woolstore 1888 here.
The Woolstore 1888. Tried, Tested and Alluxia Approved.
The writer was a guest of The Woolstore 1888.
