Owner of the multi-award-winning luxury Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, Dr Jerry Schwartz, has lodged a DA to add two penthouses, covering two levels, to the top of the hotel.

The proposal is to construct two four-bedroom penthouses, one with a lap pool, above the existing executive lounge, with exclusive lift access.

The original approval was for a 38-storey building, but only 35 floors were constructed as Dr Schwartz had proposed adding a helicopter landing pad on top of the hotel.

Dr Schwartz had originally discussed the helipad concept with the local authority at the time – Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority (now called Placemaking NSW) – but after two years of costly planning, they refused to sign off on the helipad, suggesting instead that Dr Schwartz consider penthouses as an alternative option.

Dr Schwartz said that he had been disappointed that the original proposal for a helipad had been rejected because most international cities – including Melbourne – had CBD helipads, and there had been a helipad in Darling Harbour up till the 1980s, without any issues.

“I think it was a shortsighted decision to deprive Sydney of a helipad as the Sofitel would have been the ideal location for installing such a facility,” said Dr Schwartz.

“However, we’ve always had the capacity to add extra floors to the building in line with the original DA approval and with Sydney now rebuilding its international tourism and business markets, this is the ideal time to add luxury accommodation.

“The Sofitel enjoys a commanding position overlooking Darling Harbour and the city, which would make the penthouses prime accommodation for discerning visitors. With five ensuite bedrooms each they will be ideal for families, groups and those seeking the absolute finest in hospitality.”

Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour has always been a pioneer in the hotel industry since it opened in 2017. The 590 room Sofitel was the first new build luxury hotel in Sydney's CBD in the 21st century and has progressively added luxury additions including

Sydney’s first dedicated champagne bar and an indulgent new day spa was launched in 2023.