Nestled along the Yarra River, 1 Hotel Melbourne stands as a beacon of sustainability and wellness in the heart of the city. This architectural marvel, the brand’s first in Australasia, transforms the historic Goods Shed No. 5 into a modern sanctuary, seamlessly blending nature with urban sophistication.
The hotel’s design is a testament to its commitment to the environment, featuring abundant plant life and natural materials that create a serene and eco-friendly atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, you are enveloped in a world where sustainability and luxury coexist harmoniously.
The River Reserve King: A Green Haven
Your stay at 1 Hotel Melbourne begins with a room that feels like a five-star treehouse. The River Reserve King is adorned with dried moss, rustic throw rugs, and earthy tones, creating an ambiance that is both luxurious and eco-conscious. The room’s design includes a filtered water tap and glasses, replacing plastic bottles, and an in-room dining menu accessed via a QR code burned into a piece of wood.
The view from your room overlooks the Yarra River and the famous crane, offering a picturesque backdrop to your stay. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every detail, from the chalk-and-slate notepads to the over 7,000 plants that adorn the premises.
Culinary Delights and Social Spaces
The Crane Bar & Lounge is the social hub of the hotel, featuring a DJ setup and the Neighbours cafe for grab-and-go dining. The Upstairs lounge offers a more sophisticated cocktail experience, with unique concoctions like the Japanese martini infused with nori and sesame oil.
For a gourmet experience, From Here By Mike, the hotel’s signature restaurant, offers a provenance-led menu curated by Sydney-based chef Mike McEnearney. The menu celebrates Victorian purveyors with dishes like slow-fermented flatbread and grilled calamari cooked in its own ink.
Wellness and Relaxation
The hotel’s pool area is a well-designed haven, featuring a lap pool, spa, steam room, and sauna. This kid-free space after 5 pm ensures a tranquil environment for relaxation. Adjacent to the pool is the Bamford Wellness Spa, offering a range of treatments and retail products.
As a spa sceptic, the author was pleasantly surprised by the rigorous and intuitive deep-tissue massage, described as one of the best experiences ever. The spa’s commitment to wellness is evident in every treatment, providing a rejuvenating experience for guests.
A Community of Sustainability
1 Hotel Melbourne fosters a sense of community through its dynamic lineup of events, from sound baths to zero-waste cocktail workshops. The hotel’s design elements, such as the organic sculpture by Jamie North and the tapestry by Vanessa Barragão made from textile waste, reflect its commitment to sustainability.
The granite wall and bluestone pavers, saved from the original precinct, add a touch of history to the modern design. The huge ‘happenings’ board lists all the events during your stay, ensuring there is always something exciting to do.
Melbourne’s new 1 Hotel is a standout in the city’s hotel scene, offering a unique blend of wellness, sustainability, and luxury. It is a destination that not only provides a comfortable stay but also inspires guests to embrace a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
