Ovolo Woolloomooloo opened yesterday.

Formerly the Taj Blue Hotel, and prior to that, the W Hotel, the new owners have breathed new life and energy into the 100 year-old wharf.

While the building’s character has been retained, all 100 guest rooms and public spaces have been refurbished under the guidance of design firm Hassell.

Ovolo Woolloomooloo’s central hub, Lo Lounge, is open to both hotel guests and members of the public, serving a diverse food and beverage offering in line with the high standards that wharf visitors have come to expect.

Led by Group executive chef Gavin Berrecloth, Lo Lounge is open 24 hours and has free WiFi, a free daily happy hour from 5pm-7pm for hotel guests, free continental breakfast and free snacks throughout the day.

Dedicated to investing in talent, Ovolo has partnered with the government initiative Artbank – in an Australian first – to display a unique collection of Australian artworks throughout the property. Complementing this, an 86kg Clock by Swedish design studio Humans Since 1982 takes centre-stage in the lobby.

Ovolo says it is committed to promoting both Australian and international art and commissioning further works to support local emerging artists, providing a platform to showcase these works to the public.