Award-winning hospitality design firm Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) has unveiled the interiors of Dorsett Gold Coast, a 313-room, 4.5-star hotel located at The Star Gold Coast’s world-class entertainment and leisure destination in Australia.
Inspired by the stunning coastline views of Broadbeach Island, the leafy vegetation of the hinterland and the soothing ocean waves, HBA designers sought to create a design that seamlessly blended the hotel’s interiors with its surrounding environment via a fresh, sophisticated and relaxing overall aesthetic. Subtle references to lapping waves and abstracted underwater scenes are woven into the design narrative of the lobby, guestroom artwork, and watercolour-like wallcoverings in the public spaces to curate a true sense of place.
“Our vision for the design of Dorsett Gold Coast was one of unapologetic playfulness, whimsy and soothing tranquillity yet modern and authentic for the sun-seeking traveller,” said HBA Atlanta Associate Charlie Mendoza. “We used an interplay of colour, texture and pattern to create a spirited, naturalistic interpretation of the locale with a sense of welcoming invitation from the moment guests walk through the front doors.”
Materiality directs a poetic, multi-sensory experience in the main lobby, where a bespoke chandelier installation serves as a focal point, composed of kinetic lighting and reflective materials that enhance the concept of lapping waves and light dancing on the ocean’s surface. Curved walls wrap the space in a soft organic manner, imitating the fluidity of the sea. Behind the sculpted marble reception desk, a batten feature wall makes an architectural statement and frames the space. Columns wrapped in veneer wood and furniture in faux metallic leather with 3D stitching offer elements of interest. The rich blues of the surrounding sea and sky are translated into the custom lobby carpets.
The curved lines in the lobby continue in the bar area, where ceiling heights are lowered for a more intimate feel. Meanwhile, a wallcovering behind the bar adds a delicate layer of texture in a monochrome hue evocative of the sand. The light installation emulates the shape and scale of the bar top, rounded at the edges as if smoothed by the wind and water.
Located on the 19th floor, the Executive Lounge reflects the local flora and fauna with a colour palette of turquoise and pink that resonates with the mood of being on holiday. Sun-bleached floor planks and crisp white on the ceiling amplify the natural light that illuminates the space from large-scale windows, which also serve as a portal to the city’s skyline. Brass screening elements evoke intrigue and a level of intimacy without total isolation.
Guestrooms showcase an understated elegance, with walls washed in white and soft-spoken pink to accentuate the Gold Coast views and tropical hinterland vistas. A headboard wall wrapped in faux leather introduces refined texture while nods to botanicals are incorporated through bespoke carpet patterns. Custom-designed furnishings, decorative lighting elements and hairline brass accents deliver guests a one-of-a-kind, memorable stay.
“So much of the detailing in the design of Dorsett Gold Coast was informed by our journey of discovery in conceiving this project’s visual vocabulary, which lays a foundation for happy memories to be made while on holiday,” said HBA Project Director Anna Mastrodomenico, based in Australia. “This project was truly a global team effort reflective of the strength of HBA’s international presence.”
