Haymarket: Japanese-inspired, uniquely shaped hotel planned for George St

A uniquely shaped, Japanese-inspired hotel worth $14m has been proposed in Haymarket with a trendy clientele in mind. See what’s planned.

There are plans for the hotel to slot into a 190.2sq m site at 651 George St.

A Japanese-inspired, uniquely shaped 14-storey hotel has been proposed for Haymarket.

There are plans for the hotel to slot into a narrow 190.2sq m site at 651 George St with an estimated cost of $14.55m.

Architect Tone Wheeler said the “small boutique hotel” will be pitched to a trendy clientele who understand a “groovier idea” of accommodation, given the “odd” and narrow shape of the site.

Mr Wheeler said the mixed-use development would resemble buildings of a similar nature in Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka, but it will not be targeted exclusively at the Asian market.

“It is not a capsule hotel but a clever and witty use of limited space to give the client an unusual experience,” he said.

Architect Tone Wheeler is planning to design the Japanese-inspired hotel. Picture: Supplied

An artist’s impression of the hotel.

Mr Wheeler said it would have urban views of the city to the east and some “spectacular” views to Darling Harbour from the west.

If approved, the hotel will have retail space, 42 hotel rooms and a rooftop garden.

An artist’s impression of the hotel.

An artist’s impression of the hotel.

Mr Wheeler said the site was under negotiations for a new owner and contractor, but no operator had been appointed.

Haymarket is a vibrant and diverse location that houses Chinatown and Thai Town, which supports the economy with restaurants, the Capitol Theatre and World Square Shopping Centre.

The development application was lodged to Sydney City Council on April 9 and the exhibition is set to close on May 16.

Got a news tip? Email [e-mail]

Originally published as Haymarket: Japanese-inspired, uniquely shaped hotel planned for George St