161 Sussex Street, Sydney

161 Sussex Street is a heritage-protected building in Sydney's western business district near Darling Harbour, retaining architectural elements from its original structure. The site now functions as a hotel complex with conference facilities alongside modern office spaces.

The building gained protected status through registration as a state heritage site in 1999, establishing its legal protection in Australia. A major redevelopment in 2016 introduced contemporary additions while maintaining the integrity of the original protected elements.

The site shows how historic structures can be woven into contemporary city life, with visitors noticing both the preserved original features and the functioning business spaces that surround them.

The location sits in Sydney's central business district and is easily accessible from the harbor area, making it straightforward for visitors to reach. The hotel and conference facilities are open to guests, while the protected architectural elements remain visible from street level.

The complex pairs the original protected base structure with a 26-story contemporary tower, an uncommon solution for balancing heritage protection with modern growth. This combination shows how historic foundations can support evolving urban uses without sacrificing their preserved character.