Melbourne’s Flack Studio Transforms Queenstown’s Sherwood Hotel

Flack Studio, a renowned architecture and interiors studio based in Melbourne, is set to lead a significant refurbishment of the Sherwood Hotel in Queenstown, New Zealand. This project marks the studio’s inaugural venture in New Zealand and comes under the guidance of David Flack, who received the Creative of the Year award in 2024. Flack Studio has been consistently recognized in the industry, achieving listings in Architectural Digest’s AD100 for five consecutive years and being featured in Vogue Living’s VL50 for the past six years.

The Sherwood Hotel, which has garnered multiple awards, was sold by local property investor Adam Smith to Australasian property investor RF Corval at the end of 2024. Alongside this acquisition, Corval entered into a management agreement with EVT, an Australian-listed entertainment and hospitality company that already oversees Queenstown’s QT hotel. Maria Verner, head of hotels at Corval, expressed excitement about the collaboration with Flack Studio, stating that the studio has been tasked with reimagining the 78-room hotel while remaining loyal to its brand values and sustainability philosophy.

Revamping a Unique Experience

Verner emphasized the hotel’s distinctive character, saying, “Sherwood is a very special hotel with a unique character. We wanted a design team who could honour that spirit while elevating the guest experience.” She believes that Flack and his team possess the creativity and sensitivity to enhance the hotel’s ethos without losing its essence. Flack echoed this sentiment, noting, “While every hotel is unique, that couldn’t be truer of Sherwood,” and assured that the final design would be unlike any previous projects from the studio.

General Manager Hayley Scott also shared her confidence in the refurbishment process, acknowledging the apprehension that can accompany change. “With Flack heading up the design of the Sherwood room refurbishment, we are in safe hands,” she stated. Scott believes that the core identity of Sherwood, which has been carefully cultivated over the past decade, will be preserved throughout the renovation. “The soul of Sherwood is special, and I feel confident that the ethos and unique touch points will be retained,” she added.

Phased Upgrades on the Horizon

The refurbishment is scheduled to commence soon, with upgraded rooms being rolled out in phases. This strategic approach aims to minimize disruption for guests while ensuring that the renovations enhance the overall experience at the Sherwood Hotel. As the project progresses, both the design team and management remain committed to maintaining the hotel’s original charm and appeal, while integrating modern comforts and sustainable practices.

With a blend of innovation and respect for its heritage, the upcoming transformation of the Sherwood Hotel promises to create a refreshed destination that resonates with both new and returning visitors. The collaboration between Flack Studio, RF Corval, and EVT sets a high standard for the future of hospitality in Queenstown, showcasing a commitment to quality and creative vision.