Signage Design | Wayfinding | Branding | Graphic Design

W Sydney

Australia

DEFYING
EXPECTATIONS

In the heart of Sydney’s Darling Harbour, the W Hotel Sydney stands as a testament of modern luxury, vibrant design and iconic architecture. Affectionately known as ‘The Ribbon’, its unique distinctive wave-like silhouhette was designed by Hassell to become the next curvaceous icon of Sydney. With interiors created by London based firm Bowler James Brindley, the design brief was to create a wayfinding system that could adapt to, and enhance the guest experience and narratives woven throughout.

WARATAH
WOW

The sculptural ‘W’ entry signage is imagined as a vibrant waratah – the native floral symbol of New South Wales – soft silicone petals cast in various shapes gives the impression of the ‘W’ blooming amongst its concrete surrounds. Guests are welcomed to run their fingers through the petals, or take photos immersed within, indeed to play and engage with the signage as they wish.

SWIMMING WITH
JELLYFISH

The glittering crown of the building is the infinity pool and bar, designed to emulate the luxurious ambiance of a yacht cruising the Sydney Harbour. Our vision was to create an experience that was inspired by true local elements of Sydney, one that was not only fun and authentic, but also distinctively unique from any other hotel experience in the city. The iconic open air rooftop infinity pool features a giant jellyfish mosaictiled graphic transporting guests to an underwater world teeming with life and colour. Guests can revel in the cheeky irony of being able to swim with these dangerous Sydney locals, whilst sipping cocktails overlooking Darling Harbour.

The guest-room floors emulate the experience of Darling Harbour late at night, with the shimmering lights of the city reflected in the dark water as our inspiration.
Signage takes on an iridescent, colour-changing finish, shifting in tone as one passes by. The signage is not static, but ever changing, and designed to respond to the shifting interior colour palettes throughout the building.