For the first time in Australia, the Crowne Plaza brand has made its mark at an airport. The newly rebranded Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport has officially opened, undergoing a multi-million-dollar transformation. Formerly the Holiday Inn Sydney Airport, this 252-room property is hoping to redefine what travellers can expect from airport accommodation.
“Whether it’s an annual family holiday or business trip, we know guests are seeking to make travel as seamless as possible—right from the get-go,” Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport general manager David Ross said.
“We are proud to be welcoming guests to a new era of airport accommodation, where it’s all about making their stay part of the journey.”
A major overhaul of public spaces
The first phase of the refurbishment of the Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport, which has focused on public spaces, represents a $6 million investment aimed at creating a more efficient and welcoming environment for guests. The newly redesigned reception area replaces traditional check-in counters with reception pods, complemented by a feature wall and pendant lighting. These changes aim to streamline the guest arrival process while setting the tone for the property’s broader transformation.
The redesign is part of a wider strategy to enhance the overall experience at the hotel, with a focus on functionality and contemporary aesthetics.
Dining spaces receive a refresh
The Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport’s dining and bar facilities are undergoing significant updates as part of the refurbishment. Biggles Bar & Grill, a longstanding feature of the property, is being revitalised to align with current dining trends. Updates include a fresh look for the venue and changes to the menu, which aim to attract both hotel guests and members of the local community.
“Our vision for the Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport is to create a somewhere that appeals not just to hotel guests, but also to the local community here in Sydney,” Ross said.
“The refresh to our food and beverage venues has been designed to ensure both our guests and locals feel welcomed and inspired every time they visit, now with something a little more sophisticated.”
This focus on creating a broader appeal underlines the hotel’s efforts to move beyond being a stopover option and become a destination in its own right.
Room features reflect modern needs
The Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport’s 252 guest rooms were upgraded in 2022 during a $15 million refurbishment, bringing in contemporary design elements and practical features to meet the needs of today’s travellers. The interiors feature earthy tones, bronze light fixtures, and leather headboards, creating a comfortable and understated aesthetic.
Rooms come equipped with amenities such as Nespresso machines, mini-fridges, and Antipodes skincare products. In response to increasing demand for connectivity, upcoming upgrades will also include Chromecast functionality, ensuring the rooms meet the digital needs of both leisure and business guests.
These upgrades are part of the hotel’s broader aim to provide a consistent, high-quality experience that complements its strategic location near Sydney Airport.
Flexible spaces for events and meetings
Beyond accommodation, the Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport offers six meeting and event spaces designed to cater to a variety of needs. From intimate boardroom meetings to larger gatherings of up to 90 guests, these spaces are equipped with modern furnishings, natural light, and private bar facilities. Together, they provide a versatile option for businesses and community groups looking to host events close to the airport.
The hotel has plans to further upgrade these spaces, enhancing their functionality and appeal. With 863 square metres of event space already available, the Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport is well-positioned to attract both corporate and social bookings.
Positioned for convenience and growth
The Crowne Plaza Sydney Airport is positioned to capitalise on the anticipated surge in air travel, supported by ongoing terminal upgrades at Sydney International Airport. These upgrades are expected to improve travel efficiency and support the growing number of visitors passing through Australia’s busiest gateway.
Located in Mascot, the hotel offers easy access to Sydney’s Central Business District via direct transport links and is close to major attractions such as The Entertainment Quarter and the Sydney Cricket & Sports Ground. This connectivity makes the hotel a convenient choice for both international travellers and local visitors.
The rebranding to Crowne Plaza signals a shift in the perception of airport hotels. By combining convenience with thoughtful design and enhanced services, the property is aiming to provide a more seamless experience for guests, whether they are flying in, flying out, or staying a little longer.
