It was 1994. Paul Keating was Australian prime minister, Forrest Gump had us believing life was like a box of chocolates and we were introduced to six Friends from New York. Wet Wet Wet surrounded us all with love and who could forget Liz Hurley in that Versace safety pin dress?

It was also the year Sydney’s first and only five-star hotel on Hyde Park opened. Sheraton on the Park set the benchmark for classic hotels when it welcomed its first guests, offering sophisticated style and personalised service like the city had never seen.

Delivering true hospitality has remained a constant but, ahead of the hotel’s 25th anniversary, Sheraton on the Park will usher in a new era of refined luxury following the completion of a $40 million overhaul of its 558 guest rooms and Sheraton Club Lounge.

“We are tremendously excited to introduce our loyal guests to a new level of discreet, luxury accommodation, as well as open our doors to discerning travellers the world over,” said Sheraton on the Park General Manager, David Fraser.

“While we are incredibly proud to celebrate and share this moment, our team remains motivated to achieve our goal in setting new standards of hospitality.”

Led by prominent interior designer Joseph Pang, the new-look hotel combines modern design and classic elegance to provide guests with an elevated experience they are accustomed to in their everyday lives.

In the heart of Sydney’s business district and coveted fashion precinct, a purposeful redesign of the 510 guestrooms and 48 suites has shaped a more refined and residential style with an emphasis on sophisticated, yet approachable luxury.

Inspired by the hotel’s exclusive park side neighbourhood, the new room colour palette of subtle celadon and warm grey creates a sense of calm and rest, with dark stained natural oak timber complemented by plush fabric upholstery and stitched leather work.

Layered spaces define the sleep, work and lounge zones with conventional furniture replaced by modern residential pieces. An open walk-in-robe is reminiscent of a personal shopping experience in high-end fashion boutiques and the new bathroom vanity is a contemporary interpretation of a classic console washstand.

A full height leather upholstered bedhead provides a focal point, a comfy chaise lounge and a collection of framed pictures on the wall add a warm, home away from home touch. Tech-savvy travellers are catered for with USB charging ports, complimentary high-speed wifi, a sizable desk and power business chair, still a must for the corporate crowd.

Cementing the hotel’s position as one of Sydney’s leading 5-star hotels, all Grand Executive guestrooms and Suites receive complimentary access to the fully refurbished Sheraton Club.

An ideal choice for a weekend getaway, staycation or business trip, Sheraton on the Park has fused its classic grandeur and unique location to meet the modern traveller’s expectations for more authentic experiences and personalised service.

This latest renovation is part of an overall commitment by Sheraton on the Park to innovate and transform and follows a $3 million renovation of The Gallery, The Conservatory Bar, fitness centre, spa and rooftop terrace late last year.

161 Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia. Tel: +61 2 9286 6000.