Vibe Darling Harbour Approved for Development

Sydney-based property developer Icon Oceania's proposed Darling Harbour hotel development has been granted approval. 

The developer paid $21.35 million for four adjacent terraces at the 319 - 325 Sussex Street site mid-last year.

WMK Architecture was selected as the winning architect from a design competition held on behalf of the developer. TFE hotels will operate the 145-room hotel as part of their Vibe Hotels brand.

“Achieving DA, particularly in less than six months, is a significant accomplishment,” WMK Design Director John Andreas said.

“We have delivered a design that has not only pleased our client and the hotel operator but is also stirring strong interest within the hotel market – all within the City of Sydney’s strict requirements.”

[Related reading: Development Overview: Icon Oceania’s ‘Calibre’ Surry Hills; Vibe Darling Harbour to Enter Sydney Western Corridor]The architecture reflects its environment, referencing the forms, scale and materials of an adjacent heritage school while activating the Sussex Street and James Lane streetscapes.

According to the architect, the hotel will also help to address a shortage of accommodation in the city, while the rooftop bar and pool will offer a point of difference with its sensational views to the Darling Harbour Precinct.

The tender process is in final stages with construction commencing late 2017 and targeted completion in early 2019.