June 25, 2025 — Australia’s most design-forward city has just gained a hotel that doesn’t just blend into its urban landscape—it reshapes it. 1 Hotel Melbourne, now open and accepting reservations, marks the much-anticipated Australian debut of the globally lauded luxury brand founded by Barry Sternlicht. With a nature-first philosophy and a purpose-driven approach to hospitality, the property delivers something rare: a luxury experience grounded in environmental and cultural stewardship.
Situated along 220 meters of Yarra River frontage in Melbourne’s North Wharf precinct, the hotel is more than a place to stay—it’s an ecosystem of design, history, gastronomy, art, and wellness. Built into and around the restored Goods Shed No. 5—the city’s last surviving heritage goods shed—1 Hotel Melbourne offers a model for what the future of luxury accommodations can look like: grounded in place, shaped by people, and attuned to its environmental impact.
The architectural centerpiece of the hotel is the revitalized Seafarers wharf, in continuous use since 1855, with over 2,000 original elements salvaged and reincorporated into the design. Every corner of the property pays tribute to its maritime past. From bluestone pavers to repurposed elm trees sourced during Melbourne’s Metro Tunnel excavation, the building tells the story of the city’s industrial heritage—layered with a vision of sustainability and renewal.
A palette of reclaimed timber, moss-covered signage, split-faced granite, and native greenery defines the interiors. More than 7,000 plants fill the space. In the 277 guest rooms and 36 suites, reclaimed railway sleepers and subaquatic pier wood create textural continuity. Smart thermostats, low-VOC materials, and operable windows in 85% of rooms reinforce a low-impact lifestyle—without aesthetic compromise.
The design also includes 114 hotel-branded residences, with amenities such as private chef dinners and in-residence spa services. At the pinnacle is the penthouse designed by Riverlee founder Clement Lee OAM and Fender Katsalidis, offering panoramic skyline views and exclusive access to a private lounge and terrace.
The property introduces Regeneration: The Art of Renewal, a permanent, site-specific art program curated by One Design Office and DarkLab (a subsidiary of MONA). Featuring works by Vanessa Barragão, Jamie North, and Indigenous Australian artists Naminapu Maymuru-White and Yhonnie Scarce, the program weaves together themes of heritage, resilience, and environmental healing through reclaimed and natural materials.
In tandem with the art program is a robust calendar of Happenings—ranging from salt-blending workshops and full moon sound baths to tarot readings and seasonal tastings. Much of the programming is created with local collaborators, ensuring a lineup that evolves with the city and its culture.
At the helm of From Here by Mike, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is renowned Australian chef Mike McEnearney. Known for his produce-forward approach and zero-waste ethos, McEnearney has curated a menu that reflects place and purpose: oysters with finger lime vinaigrette, goat’s cheese soufflés, and locally sourced dishes meant for sharing. Nearly half of the wine list is Australian, with a focus on biodynamic and low-intervention selections.
Other venues on property follow the same sustainable rhythm. Crane Bar & Lounge offers botanical cocktails and DJ sets in an immersive, textural space. Neighbours Café is a daytime retreat for nutrient-dense meals, barista-grade coffee, and smoothie shots. And Upstairs, a low-lit cocktail bar tucked away above the main level, invites a more intimate kind of evening—an ode to Melbourne’s word-of-mouth nightlife culture.
The hotel offers over 1,000 square meters of event space, including the Seafarers Event Space, which can accommodate up to 900 guests. Each space has been designed with biophilic principles, natural light, and sustainable materials. Events are supported by zero-waste catering plans and the Certified Sustainable Gatherings program, developed in-house to align each celebration with the brand’s ecological values.
Bamford Wellness Spa anchors the hotel’s wellness offering. Created in partnership with holistic pioneer Carole Bamford, the spa features all-natural treatments, an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and a Jacuzzi-style spa. The adjacent Field House Gym offers high-performance equipment, locally sourced materials, and a schedule of yoga, meditation, and movement classes led by Melbourne-based instructors.
Guests looking to explore the city mindfully can take advantage of the hotel’s central location—just steps from arts and sporting precincts—and complimentary access to the fully electric Audi Q6 e-tron via the Audi EV Experience. Outside, the Seafarers Rest Park offers 3,500 square meters of green space, created under Yarra River Protection Principles, linking biodiversity with public space and heritage restoration.
At 1 Hotel Melbourne, sustainability is more than a feature—it’s an immersive experience. A 50kW solar array, rainwater harvesting, and extensive daylighting strategies support operational efficiency, while design touches like recycled materials, shower timers, and plant-rich interiors make conscious living feel like second nature.
This is a property where everything has been considered—down to the way natural light hits reclaimed timber, and how guests interact with their environment, their food, and the community around them.