Tell us about the design of The Darling.

Designed by internationally-renowned architects Steelman Partners, the luxurious suites were delivered by multi-disciplinary firm DBI Design and highly-respected Australian construction company, Probuild. Guests of The Darling enter through large revolving doors, leading to a lavish Lobby – a fusion of the traditional and opulent with the new and eclectic. With its coastal location as inspiration, hundreds of glass beads drape from a black dragon marble ceiling, resembling the beauty of a jellyfish and creating an undeniable “wow” factor for guests as they enter. The Lobby also features a vintage style surfboard sourced specifically for the space by the Burleigh Heads based surfer/designers who founded Maywood. Meanwhile, no comfort or detail has been spared in the creation of The Darling’s lavish suites, where guests can indulge in elegant décor with a distinct local touch, including artwork, high-end finishes and soothing tones to celebrate the Gold Coast’s unique coastal vibe and charm. The offering begins with 22 base rooms, the Jewel Suites, and 21 larger Stellar Suites, with a floor plan between 840 and 872 square feet in size and an east-facing balcony overlooking the ocean. The north-facing Penthouse Suite boasts an impressive 2,700 square-foot in space, adorned with grand chandeliers, stunning floor to ceiling glass and an 860 square-foot balcony revealing a spectacular 180-degree vista of the Gold Coast skyline. It features two king bedrooms with ocean or waterway views, with the option of an additional twin room that takes the suite to an even larger floor space of 3,500 square feet. At the southern-end of the hotel, the south-facing Penthouse Deluxe Suites boast a standard floor space of 3,500 square feet and offer two large bedrooms with bathrooms, a grand living and kitchen space and the choice of a private Billiard, Media or Exercise room.

What are three fun facts about the property that many are surprised to learn?

The Darling formed the centerpiece of The Star Gold Coast’s transformation, which included the refurbishment of the existing 596-room hotel, The Star Grand, and 11 food and beverage offerings.
The Darling Gold Coast features a gravity-defying infinity pool which perches 720 feet above ground and extends 54 feet beyond the side of the tower.
Hotel guests will experience the comforting cocoon of plush Frette bathrobes. A Forbes Service Standard partner, Frette also supplies its luxurious products to The Darling at The Star Sydney.

What touches do you believe make a room or suite feel like someone’s home-away-from-home?

The Darling epitomises what I believe is the perfect marriage of all the at-home comforts with the ultimate in luxury, creating an unrivalled lavish yet relaxing experience.
Drawing inspiration from the beauty of oceanside living, each suite is your own tranquil refuge, with the beautifully-appointed spaces designed purposefully for those wishing to relax and rejuvenate in style. In each suite, you will discover first-class amenities including luxurious pampering products from the internationally-renowned Lalique range, a GHD hairdryer and straightener and, of course, plush Frette bathrobes for that supreme sensual feel.
The Darling’s dramatic, unique architecture purposely designed with fluid, curved lines mimics the movement of the ocean’s currents. Additionally, the use of rounded interior elements, including grand circular chandeliers and curved walls and walkways, ensure guests feel comfortable and relaxed on a subconscious level.
The essence of The Darling is ensuring guests experience a home-away-from-home, but on a much more heightened, luxurious level. Each suite features state-of-the-art in-room technology with Samsung Smart TVs, a Bose sound system as well as multiple USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity and revolutionary zone control – affording guests the opportunity to customise lighting, drapery, temperature and service preferences.

Walk us through your ideal stay at The Darling.

Entering The Darling through large revolving doors, relish in the lavish Lobby – a fusion of the traditional and opulent with the new and eclectic. With our coastal location as inspiration, hundreds of glass beads drape from a black dragon marble, which fall just above a stunning water feature creating a beautiful sparkling reflection, resembling the beauty of a jellyfish. Regardless of which suite you choose, no plush comfort or high-end design element has been spared, from the lavish furniture and bespoke artwork to gold metallic finishes and rich yet soothing tones reminiscent of the Gold Coast. As you walk the halls of The Darling, admire the hotel’s custom-created artwork and sculptures curated by local artists and stunning chandeliers featured on each level crafted of crystal and hand-blown glass. Experiencing Nineteen at The Star, The Darling’s stylish rooftop restaurant and bar, is an absolute must, while you also have access to The Star Gold Coast’s eleven award-winning food and beverage experiences, including Kiyomi, Cucina Vivo and Garden Kitchen & Bar.