Glamour Reimagined in Darlinghurst

By Jade Johansson • 3 days ago

May
2025

Exceptional interiors are often defined by the finer details – those tactile, textural elements that bring depth and character to a space. Among these, window furnishings play a powerful yet understated role. Carefully considered curtains not only influence light and privacy but also shape the ambience and elevate the overall design narrative.

For discerning homeowners and designers, working with a specialist who understands both the aesthetics and the technical craftsmanship of soft furnishings is essential, and Sydney’s Sway Curtains is one such partner, known for creating luxurious made-to-measure solutions that transform spaces with effortless style.

The Velvet Glove, is an exclusive new dining destination in Sydney’s vibrant inner-city Darlinghurst. Known for its eclectic energy and creative edge, the suburb sets the perfect backdrop for a venue that blends artful opulence with contemporary flair. Sway Curtains was engaged to bring their signature craftsmanship to the lux venue, and their custom window treatments played a pivotal role in shaping the restaurant’s immersive and luxurious interior.

Described as one of Sydney’s most indulgent new venues, The Velvet Glove channels the feel of an exclusive private club with sumptuous interiors that evoke a feeling like a scene from a golden-age film. The interiors are a visual feast: marble floors, gold coffered ceilings, and red velvet chairs that all nod to the opulence of Art Deco glamour. Iconic art re-imaginings and immersive bathroom installations inspired by Botticelli and Caravaggio speak to the venue’s artistic soul, while handcrafted Greek bar stools and Italian marble reflect its impeccable material palette.

The Velvet Glove is where European luxury meets Kings Cross glamour and doors are open to all. At the wheel is hospitality professional Haley Gooley, who has worked across ski chalets and dining spaces in Perisher. Gooley wanted to make an opulent space that signals a warm welcome to everyone – with walk-ins welcome, no set seating times – and tipping is not expected.

Adding to the allure is the restaurant’s unwavering focus on creating a fully immersive dining experience. Every element, from the ambient lighting to the curated soundtrack and impeccable service, is designed to slow down time and elevate the senses. The velvet-draped interiors evoke the elegance of a bygone era, while subtle art deco flourishes and richly textured finishes make for a setting that feels both indulgent and intimate.

For the bar and main dining areas, Sway installed a wave-fold sheer using James Dunlop’s Federation fabric in the colour Bullion Lux — a transparent mesh that brings subtle softness and movement to the space. The sheers gently filter light throughout the day and shimmer under evening mood lighting, offering a delicate counterpoint to the heavier, more decadent finishes elsewhere in the venue.

For a truly elevated experience, The Velvet Glove offers an exclusive private dining room – a lavishly appointed sanctuary designed for those who appreciate intimacy, discretion, and exceptional detail. Whether for high-level business gatherings or celebratory soirées, this opulent space delivers tailored menus, curated wine pairings, and flawless service, all set against a backdrop of luxury that makes every occasion unforgettable.

Here, Sway used Mokum’s Couture fabric in a luxurious trio of Olive, Ochre, and Ivy. Paired with an acoustic lining, the result is a cocooned, elegant space perfect for exclusive gatherings.

With a menu that favours bold simplicity – think black Angus eye fillet with blistered cherry tomatoes or strawberry foie gras with poached strawberries, plus a cocktail list that includes creations laced with absinthe and 24K gold leaf, The Velvet Glove offers a dining experience as decadent as its interior design and an experience not to be missed. And with their ability to interpret a brief, source luxurious materials, and deliver flawless installations, Sway Curtains’ contribution to the venue’s design story is undeniable

For those building or renovating high-end homes, Sway brings the same level of artistry and attention to detail to every project, helping create interiors that feel timeless, tailored, and beautifully resolved.