The Grace Sydney – Hotel Review

Listed on the NSW State Heritage Register since 1999, The Grace building is one of Sydney’s best examples of Skyscraper Gothic architecture. Gracing a CBD corner just five minutes walk from Martin Place, the intricately-tiled exterior easily stands out from its nondescript neighbours; you’ll often find a passerby snapping a quick pic of it from the opposite footpath. Read on for the full review.

Thanks to an extensive restoration in 1995, The Grace’s Federation-era edifice has kept its heritage beauty and those bygone-era marble floors, light fixtures and pressed-metal ceilings set a pretty extravagant scene for guests. 

Convenience isn’t overlooked, though — the updated rooms are more subtle in their approach to luxury than the lobby and hallways. Simple and well-equipped, The Grace offers guests a comfortable and convenient stay in the heart of Sydney CBD. Prepare to step back in time.

Where is The Grace Sydney?

The Grace Sydney occupies a corner at the intersection of King and York Streets. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Sydney International and Domestic Airports.

What’s near The Grace Sydney?

The Grace is right in the heart of Sydney’s bustling CBD. Martin Place and the shopping hub of the QVB are five minutes away on foot, while Barangaroo and Circular Quay are a 10- and 20-minute stroll respectively.

Room types

There are several restored room types at The Grace, ranging from the Superior and Deluxe offerings, which offer king-size beds and tall, softly-draped windows, to Signature Premium Family Suites with a little more living space. The Junior Suite has a little more flair and features mid-century occasional chairs, a circular dining table and, in some, a deep soaking tub.

Restaurants and bars

Although room service is available, The Lobby Lounge also serves a standard hot (eggs your way and sides) and continental (baker’s baskets and coffee) breakfast for guests. There are several dining options within The Grace Plaza – the lower level of the building – from omakase-style Japanese to quick and easy Italian. These restaurants are also available as room service for guests of The Grace, though serving times vary.

Travel for work

Wi-fi at The Grace is free in public areas, as well as in rooms. All room types include a desk space that can be used for remote working. The Grace also has several rooms reserved for meetings and conferences of varying size, with capacity ranging from 12 to 480 people. These can be booked on request for a fee. Depending on the room/meeting type, audio-visual facilities and catering can be organised.

Pool, sauna and gym

The Grace is crowned by an indoor lap pool, steam room, sauna, gym area and sun deck, all on level 12 (entry is from level 11). Treadmill, rowing and bike equipment overlooks the city skyline.

What you need to know

The Grace has an impressive track record of sustainable initiatives, dating back some 20 years to the inaugural Green Globe Award from 2001. In practice, that means guests can expect biodegradable packaging for bathroom amenities, eco-friendly cleaning products for housekeepers and a regular upgrade of lighting and air-con for reductions in energy consumption.

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