A brutalist building constructed in 1977, and known previously as the Roundhouse, Newcastle’s iconic council administration centre has been transformed into Crystalbrook Kingsley, a luxury hotel that is the city’s first five-star offering. Developed by Crystalbrook Collection, with architecture by EJE Architecture and interiors by Suede Interior Design, the project offers a refreshing revitalisation of an iconic heritage building.
Crystalbrook Kingsley
“Our design is subservient to the existing building and successfully retains the beauty of the original structure. It is respectful to the true qualities of this representative example of the Modernist, Brutalist style in Newcastle,” says EJE Architecture director Barney Collins of the hotel that has 130 rooms.
Guest room
“Our intention was to create a contemporary and elegant look while softening the proportions; showcasing a vision of modern architecture while preserving the historical value of the existing brutalist structure,” says Barney.
The original building was designed by locally based architects Wilson and Suters in collaboration with Melbourne-based architects Romberg and Boyd who were inspired by Boston City Hall, Massachusetts.
Guest room
Compared to the outside of the building, and its striking overall form, the interiors have been designed to balance the visual weight of the architecture. Inside, there’s undulating forms, warm bold hues and plush materials that combine to create comfortable yet sophisticated spaces The colour palette references Newcastle’s mining past and there’s hints of birds, footprints and feather motifs too.
Lobby
“Our aim was to create a design that not only reflected Newcastle, but something that would be culturally connected and relevant to its location. The use of curves and rhythm within the guest rooms and public interiors mimic and pay homage to the lines of the architecture of the building,” says Clifford Rip, of Suede Interior Design.
The rooftop space houses the Roundhouse restaurant and Romberg’s bar which boasts panoramic views of Newcastle city, Nobby’s Head and beyond. Lined with mature olive trees, the use of large glass ceilings over all the tables allows guests to feel as if they are dining under the stars at night.
Luxury hotels NSW: Tamworth gets its own 5-star glamour
Powerhouse Tamworth by Rydges has completed its multi-million dollar redevelopment – three years in the making – to create the only five-star hotel property in the New England region of…
International hotel chain The Standard will open its first Australian location in Rose Street, Fitzroy, with the project slated for completion in 2023.
Rendered images of the final project
The Standard Fitzroy will feature 127 rooms over seven levels including an intimate rooftop experience. The Standard’s unique style of hospitality, defined by compelling design, and engaging culinary and cultural experiences will complement Fitzroy’s bustling creative community, surrounded by bars, cafes, galleries and retail.
The project, said to be worth in excess of $60m, is designed by Woods Bagot architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie, and developed by DealCorp.
“We couldn’t be happier to be bringing this iconic brand to Australian shores, With the country’s focus turning to a post-COVID era, this feels like a pivotal moment for hotel and travel,” says DealCorp executive chairman, David Kobritz.
“The Standard was a natural choice for our Rose Street hotel project. Not only are our brand values aligned but they are the perfect operator to bring to a suburb like Fitzroy which has such a rich culture and history,” David continues.
“The Fitzroy neighbourhood in Melbourne represents exciting new territory for The Standard, but at the same time feels totally familiar,” says Standard International CEO, Amar Lalvani.
The hotel’s design will take cues from Fitzroy’s industrial heritage, whilst also being respectful of its residential surrounds.
“In designing this hotel, we designed it to be local — to continue the architectural traditions of Fitzroy and sustain the neighbourhood’s artistic and cultural spirit,” says Woods Bagot principal and regional design leader, Peter Miglis.
“Fitzroy’s history of corner pubs, workers cottages, grand housing and industry inspired our approach to the building’s façades. Weathered steel and concrete are robust, timeless materials that sit comfortably straight away and, over time, will add charm as they patina,” concludes Miglis.
Hecker Guthrie associate, Josh Watt adds: “In looking to connect The Standard Hotel to its local surroundings, Hecker Guthrie has drawn from the breadth of Fitzroy’s historic past to underpin our approach to the interiors — to create spaces that bring together ideas of soft industrialism, youthful eclecticism with a sophisticated palette of materials.”
The Standard Melbourne will join The Standard’s growing portfolio of hotels, which include the award winning The Standard London and The Standard Huruvalhi Maldives. Despite the challenges of the economic climate, the company continues to expand its footprint with landmark projects around the world.
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Powerhouse Tamworth by Rydges has completed its multi-million dollar redevelopment – three years in the making – to create the only five-star hotel property in the New England region of NSW. The refurbishment was designed and implemented by Australian award-winning design team, Paul Kelly Design, for renowned regional hotelier, Greg Maguire.
“The main objective for the redevelopment was to steer away from the stereotypical regional motel image,” says Greg. “I wanted to elevate the destination motel experience. We have so many corporate guests, as well as couples and families from Sydney, Brisbane and other locations – the aim was to create a contemporary experience that visitors and diners could experience in any metro city around the world.”
Award winning hospitality interior designer Paul Kelly
Paul said there were challenges in that they were working with an existing hotel “shell” which had been in operation for 20 years, as well as a more limited budget than usual. But it just meant they had to get more creative.
“It’s very glamorous which is of course a little unexpected in Tamworth and in a motel-style hotel. Whatever we do we always try and push the boundaries and exceed the customer’s expectations.
“Some of the touchpad points were based on a recent trip of mine to Tokyo staying at the Andaz. The stand-out for me in any room design is the lighting so we ensured that the lighting and the ergonomics around the use of power data and mood lighting worked at a very technologically high level, completely unexpected for a regional town. With the lighting controlled, we were able to provide a significant boost to the atmosphere within the rooms and use the reflection of the lighting to provide depth and warmth in which was otherwise a standard rectangular box for the room shape.”
At the same time, Paul and his team wanted to create something that was uniquely Tamworth. “We looked at the heritage of the area to inspire the aesthetic. We collaborated as much as we could with local suppliers and manufacturers to deliver a concept that was visually striking yet subtle with its touch points, plus also had a strong local touch that would offer a sense of pride for the community.”
The completion of the Tamworth redevelopment also marks the launch of 20 brand-new luxe serviced apartments, a mix of one and two-bedroom options and a three-bedroom villa, perfect for longer stays and families or groups travelling together. The apartments complement the property’s 61 newly refurbished rooms and suites, all with high-speed free wi-fi, 60 inch 4K smart TVs on an acoustic wave wall, wireless mobile chargers, multiple USB ports and catering for every modern traveller’s needs.
The new serviced apartments
Paul Kelly Design is one of the country’s top design firms specialising in the hospitality industry, having designed over 600 bars and restaurants, and winning several national awards and international listings for its projects. Powerhouse Hotel Tamworth was the firm’s first hotel project, bringing a new level of excitement in curating beautiful, bespoke spaces for guests to retreat as a ‘home away from home’.
“We worked with Greg on the hotel’s food and beverage areas first,” says Paul. Greg is a passionate operator and we had so much fun collaborating with the first stage of the project. When he asked us to get involved with the guest rooms, we saw it as a new opportunity to create something truly different for the hotel accommodation and allowed us more time to collaborate with Greg and the broader team.”
The hotel’s Coal Bunker bar
Powerhouse Tamworth by Rydges is part of the Powerhouse Hotels Group, an Australian-owned and operated family business who have been operating in regional NSW for the past 40 years with their two hotels in Tamworth and Armidale.
Greg says: “We’ve taken the beauty and history of our New England region, the nostalgia of the roadside motel and elevated it to a new level. When guests visit us, they will find a level of sophistication throughout that offers a true escape, and a sense of comfort and luxury more commonly associated with urban hotels around the globe.”
He adds: “This project is an investment in the future of Tamworth. It has been a substantial project, but it could not have been finalised at a more opportune time. I am proud to have been able to up the ante of our own hotel accommodation experience, providing a luxury stop in country NSW for guests, particularly at a time when the appetite for regional travel is strong as Australians are wanting to explore more of their broader backyard. We are looking to lure more visitors to Tamworth, to show them how incredible the region is and what country hospitality is all about.”
On working with Paul, Greg said: “Paul is fervent, fearless and passionate about his design projects, and we knew we could trust the process with him at the helm. His attention to detail in the fit-out has been second to none, using Australian and local materials and workmanship wherever was possible. He also has a keen eye for achieving the balance of visual aesthetic and operational design, and his hospitality experience has been paramount to the success of this project.”
Along with its accommodation, Powerhouse Tamworth by Rydges incorporates the iconic regional dining establishment, The Workshop Kitchen. The restaurant sits alongside the classy-cool Coal Bunker Bar with brass and timber elements and deep aqua hued velvet soft furnishings.
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Little National Sydney hotel combines design efficiency and luxury
Nestled above Sydney’s Wynyard station, overlooking the CBD streets, DOMA Group enlisted award-winning architecture and interior design firm, Bates Smart to create a modern approach to accommodation at Little National…
Nestled above Sydney’s Wynyard station, overlooking the CBD streets, DOMA Group enlisted award-winning architecture and interior design firm, Bates Smart to create a modern approach to accommodation at Little National Sydney.
The theme of natural light and efficiency of space is evident in every considered detail of the guest rooms. The floor to ceiling window draws guests toward the bespoke super king-sized bed, which cleverly incorporates charging ports, television and lighting.
These rooms – although small – don’t compromise on comfort or luxury, as their resourceful design and clever floor plan fit every feature of a high-end hotel into a compact space, without overwhelming or crowding the area. Additionally, the rooms are very reasonably priced considering their amazing location – right in the heart of Sydney.
This full use of the space continues with the joinery design – to minimise bulkiness, the joinery has been crafted to look at one with the furniture and welcome the natural light through the window.
“Little National Sydney’s design focuses on providing everything you need, but nothing that you don’t,” says Guy Lake, director at Bates Smart and the creative force behind the hotel’s architecture. “We wanted to ensure this hotel felt refined and understated, without compromising on quality and space.”
While the property draws inspiration from its inner-city location, the compact, urban site provided a new set of challenges for the Bates Smart design team. Placed directly on top of transport infrastructure, the building is supported via a steel frame structure; an innovative solution to the constraints of its location.
This exterior features a simple linear form with soft curved corners, creating a seamless connection with outside. Horizontal bands double as sunshades, a subtle nod to the previous transport house, harmonising with the heritage context of the building.
The hotel’s communal guest areas are the real hero of the property; light-filled and generous in size, the spaces have been designed as an experience in their own right. The spectacular open plan rooftop with double height ceilings features an expansive library work-space, exclusive bar, and custom-built fireplace with intimate lounge seating.
The indoor-outdoor setting foregrounds the natural world against the stunning Sydney skyline, creating the feel of a private oasis – while still within walking distance of the CBD.
“We are so pleased to have crafted the Little National Sydney for DOMA,” says designer Hayden Crawford, who led the Bates Smart interior design team. “It’s a fresh and exciting offer for Sydney – especially the rooftop, which will be a destination like no other in the city. It still feels like a Little National hotel, but it creates an oasis in Sydney’s dense urban landscape.”
Coogee Bay Hotel revamps rooms with stylish new look
Designed by ID Studios and built by INFIGO, the 23 newly renovated Bay and Beach Rooms at Coogee Bay Hotel boast a bright and modern beachside aesthetic and for those…
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Located at the DoubleTree by Hilton on Melbourne’s Flinders Street, ‘Level 14’ is a bold transformation of the hotel’s former penthouse into seven new hotel rooms featuring industrial inspired architecture and spectacular views across to Federation Square and Flinders Street Station, the MCG, Arts Centre, Yarra River and beyond.
Designed in loft-style by Woods Bagot and iWolff Atelier, the rooms feature a bespoke mix of warm timber, black accents and pops of primary colour – a far cry from the marble-clad penthouses of old. Think mustard velvet desk chairs, original, exposed bright red structural beams and colour-blocked Italian side tables.
Locally made joinery complements a variety Italian-made furniture and upholstery while French washed walls and custom pendant globe lights by Point of View complete the spaces.
Some of the rooms feature original exposed red beams
“We are passionate about embracing the unique and local character of our city. The design of Level 14 creatively encapsulates this philosophy by celebrating Melbourne’s bold yet reserved identity with one-off contemporary detailing and considered style,” says Garry Lucas, the hotel’s general manager.
Three of the unique loft-style suites feature soaring double-height ceilings with each bedroom loft area accessed via a staircase with glass balustrade – designed so as not to interrupt the room’s views.
Glass balustrades ensure views aren’t interrupted
“Based on Melbourne’s bold philosophy of expressive architecture, iWolff has transformed the existing raw volumes into individually designed hotel rooms. Each room expresses the industrial structure where possible and captures framed vistas to the Yarra River and beyond,” says iWolff director Gary Wolff.
Rooms start from a very reasonable $260 per night.
With its chic retro vibe and faded luxe colour scheme, Brisbane’s new Calile Hotel is arguably one of Australia’s most Instagrammed spaces – its stylish mix of brass, cork, concrete and sophisticated pastel hues proving difficult to resist for the design savvy.
The lobby bar
“The pool is the focal point of the hotel, with the rooms wrapping around its raised podium, and Hellenika restaurant tucked neatly alongside,” says Ingrid Richards, co-director of Richards and Spence, the architects responsible for the brand-new build that has been described as an ‘urban resort’ and looks to locations rather than specific design periods for inspiration.
The pool
“We resisted the nostalgic reference to styles, instead we looked at other cities for precedence. We wanted to establish a civic vernacular that celebrates our own unique hot weather and outdoor lifestyle. In Brisbane, it is a mistake to reference cities like New York, London and Melbourne, rather we looked to other hot weather cities with a resort focus to inform our design – Miami, Palm Springs, Rio De Janeiro and Mexico City,” says Ingrid’s co-director Adrian Spence.
Measuring 27 metres by 8 metres, the pool is lined with light green stone tiles
“For Richards and Spence, embracing our climate and tropical surrounds became the foundation to create what is Australia’s first urban resort. In our opinion there is no other city-based Australian hotel conceived as a resort. City-based hotels in our country are pitched to the corporate market, focussed on the conference, rather than on the pool and the hotel’s surrounds. The Calile has changed that,” says Ingrid.
Guest room
“The pool area, with its associated outdoor dining cabanas and sun lounges has been key to creating that feel. As are the external naturally ventilated corridors and lift lobbies with ceiling fans and planters,” says Adrian who explains that operable windows and balconies continue the resort theme in the rooms.
Guest bathroom
Guest bathroom
“Our climate allows us to live outdoors most of the year. The naturally ventilated rooms allow guests to share our unique outdoor lifestyle, again reinforcing a sense of place that is uniquely Brisbane. Who wants to be in a conference room all day then go to a hotel room that is locked up and air conditioned? We live outside all the time in Brisbane, so why not do so in a hotel room if you can? Many rooms open onto a generous scallop-edged balcony,” says Ingrid.
The hotel’s brutalist exterior
Externally, there is enthusiastic use of white bricks – 270,000 to be exact. “White bricks form archways at the ground, and facades at high level and continue inside to maintain an outdoorsy vibe. Bricks endure over time physically and stylistically,” says Adrian. Breeze blocks were used too, for both design and ventilation qualities. “Again, we collectively associate breeze blocks with hot weather places which reinforces a sense of place,” says Adrian.
Guest room with city view – note the cork clad walls
Guest room
And as for the gorgeous interiors, they are comprised of a mix of cork lined rooms, luxurious brass and marble and a pastel palette that runs from terracotta to sage, peach and sea green. “It is a deliberately restrained palette, designed to endure over time,” says Ingrid.
If the idea of fully immersing yourself in the enchanting, botanical world of Bonnie & Neil for a night appeals then perhaps a Sydney hotel stay is in order this summer. Located on the western side of the city centre (beside Darling Harbour), West Hotel Sydney (a subsidiary of Hilton) invited the incomparable homewares duo to style a hotel room recently with stunning results.
Titled ‘Sleep Amongst Botanics,’ the enchanting in-room display has been styled with a curated selection of Bonnie & Neil’s hand crafted botanical motif items to absolutely sumptuous effect. The room offers guests a truly immersive experience with a mix of artwork, furniture pieces, cushions, throws and other accents from the textile brand.
Expect to see this room all over Insta this summer!
But perhaps the most whimsical aspect of the installation is the gorgeous oversized floral arbour that is suspended above the room’s bed, cascading down the headboard. Created by floral stylists, The Hunted Yard, the dramatic floral display really does offer that final, fabulous flourish.
The room takeover also features a series of fabulous gifts for guests including luxe skincare from Australian natural brand Biology plus a natural scent diffuser from Air Aroma. In addition, guests will be able to ‘shop the look’ for all the Bonnie and Neil items with a special West Hotel incentive code.
The experience doesn’t end in the room with the hotel’s bar offering a ‘Summer of Gin’ bar menu as part of the installation. Inspired by Sydney distiller Archie Rose’s summer gin blends, guests can choose from a selection of gin-based cocktails and gin-infused bar snacks in the hotel’s bar.
The ‘Sleep Amongst Botanics’ accommodation package is available to guests over the summer holiday period, from December 2018 to mid-January 2019, from $332 per night.
W Brisbane opened recently, marking the re-entry of the playfully luxurious international hotel brand into Australia. Sitting on the banks of the Brisbane River, the hotel design took inspiration from the site with its overarching theme A River Dreaming developed by interior designer Nic Graham and Associates in collaboration with the multidisciplinary design studio Studio Ongarato.
W Brisbane
“Our first narrative-led hotel was for the W Hong Kong back in 2010. Using narrative at that time was uncommon. It successfully injected greater vibrancy into the brand and rewrote the rulebook for narrative-led hotel design. It offers a world within a world for experience hunters but ultimately it aims to engage, delight and transport,” says Studio Ongarato co-founder Fabio Ongarato.
Reception
And delight it certainly does, if the Instagram-ometer is anything to go by where the hotel spaces have received saturation coverage of late. “For W Brisbane we looked at the W brand DNA, which is bold, witty and shows a lust for life,” says Fabio.
Bar
“It’s a visual feast – gone are the beige and bull-nosed interiors of the past; design is at every corner. When it came to approaching W Brisbane, the W DNA was easy to weave in with the free and easy Aussie attitude. We’ve embraced colour, colonial heritage, modernity, ethnic and indigenous roots, a Brisvegas attitude and a sense of humour,” says Nic Graham.
Bar detail
A River Dreaming pays respect to the Dreaming of the Turrbal people, which sees the river as the giver of life. “The river banks and swamps supported many communities, including the early settlers, becoming the source of life and the place of many gatherings. The main idea behind the design was to create a place on the riverbank where gatherings will form, and city stories and legends will be created,” says Nic.
Hallway
“The ebbs and flows of the Brisbane River are evident in the curved designed features, namely in the bar and restaurant joinery and even subtly in the ballroom carpet. The river reeds, tidal markers, earthy river banks and the ambient life that it supports, are all evident in the choice of materials and finishes, along with the staircase being lined in reeds and sticks. These earthy, somewhat native and organic features that celebrate the physical location, are in contrast with the W brand story that taps into the heartbeat of the city,” says Nic.
Bedroom
As for his favourite part, Nic cites the pool area. “I’m thrilled with the pool area as we designed a very bold ceiling and pool interior to complement its undercover location – the mix of bold colours and patterns in the public spaces is our signature style,” says Nic.
The ah-mazing pool
The first five star hotel to open in Brisbane in 20 years, W Brisbane features 312 rooms with views over South Bank and west towards Mount Coot-tha, as well as dining, bar, pool, spa and yoga facilities. The hotel opened in June, with others scheduled to open in Melbourne and Sydney over the next two years.
In the race to create Australia’s most dazzling hotel interior, the baton was passed recently to a new boutique establishment in Sydney’s Surry Hills, the Little Albion Guest House. Formerly a convent and boarding house, the three level space was dark, dilapidated and fronted onto one of Sydney’s dodgier streets but all that is a distant memory with the hotel destined to become one of the city’s coolest establishments.
Reception – the eggplant leather sunken lounge & pendant light evoke the 1970’s
“The hotel occupies a tiny North-South oriented urban infill site in a densely built urban environment, and hence it is deprived of natural sunlight. It is sandwiched between two heritage buildings – a former Presbyterian church to the West, which is now a hip commercial office building, and a former school hall to the East, which is now a mixed-use apartment building. All three buildings form part of a heritage conservation area,” says the project’s architect Terence Yong.
The hotel is sandwiched between an office building and former church
“We introduced new internal plans and guest room layouts whilst retaining and amplifying the existing building’s unique heritage features, and reinstating its lost features. This results in new, character-themed guest rooms that eschew formulaic interiors – they feature a cool mix of heritage and contemporary details that are true to their own DNA and that of Surry Hills,” says Terence.
The sunken leather lounge in the lobby is a fabulous communal space
Designed by Connie Alessi and Cressida Kennedy, the interiors are truly spectacular – opulent and elegant, they haven’t left a detail to chance and manage to combine art deco and seventies elements with aplomb.
The 24 hour communal honour bar is a stunning feature
The 35 guest rooms feature bespoke detailing such as custom designed art deco inspired door hardware and solid walnut bedheads, green onyx desks, leather desk chairs and steel and brass open wardrobes.
Guest room
The unexpected gold tiles in the bathroom evoke a Gustav Klimt painting
The bathrooms were carved from solid marble blocks and feature custom brass tapware, bespoke designed vanity frames with Elba Stone tops and custom art deco inspired mirrors. Hand-painted Moroccan feature wall tiles round out the eclectic mix.
Guest bathroom
“The interiors remind one of the different eras that the existing heritage building has gone through thanks to its art deco, mid-century and retro-inspired spaces. The portraits in the stairwell of the building remind one of the once significant figures in the local area history too,” says Terence.
Guest room
Guest bathroom
Custom carpet lines the hallways
“The building is capped with a North-facing, beautifully landscaped secret rooftop garden with sweeping views of the city,” says Terence.
The rooftop garden
“The aesthetics are about engaging memory – making memory and provoking memory,” says Terence. I for one, can’t wait to make my own memories there on my next trip back to Sydney. Just, wow!
Visiting 100 of the world’s most luxurious boutique hotels in 20 countries, it’s safe to say Lancemore Group CEO Julian Clark had a lot of inspiration. Taking the best bits from each, he has today opened Larmont Sydney, a 5-star boutique hotel in Potts Point.
The first CBD property for the family-owned company, the hotel seamlessly brings together European luxury with Scandinavian simplicity. Fancy a mini-bar stocked with Dom Perignon? What about a choice of luxe spa products to pamper yourself in-room? Or even a private balcony for your fur baby to sunbathe in solitude? Larmont Sydney has it all. “We wanted to create a hotel that draws on the best features of hotels around the world to bring together foodies, wellness enthusiasts and design conscious guests alike,” explains Julian. “Our ethos of true generosity is evidenced by integrated luxury, technology and genuine hospitality.”
Designed by global architecture firm HASSEL, the boutique hotel features 103 rooms and suites across seven floors, with harbour and city views. “Our guests have pretty great homes to live in when they’re not travelling,” says Julian. “So with every choice we asked ourselves ‘is this better than what I can get at home?’”
Luxury finishes include marble benchtops, leather bedheads, freestanding baths and separate rain showers; combined with must-have technology like Apple TV and Bose Sound Touch. When it comes to food, guests can order from local restaurants via Deliveroo and UberEats or dine in the adjoining restaurant, The Hyde. Best yet, they can enjoy happy hour with a complimentary first drink and canapés.
We were recently faced with our first interstate wedding since becoming parents which threw us into a bit of an accommodation and babysitting dilemma! We needed to travel to the beautiful Yarra Valley outside Melbourne from Sydney. And we didn’t know anyone in Melbourne we could ask to look after Seb (apart from some other friends also coming to the wedding!). Not keen on leaving him with a stranger, we decided the best plan of attack was to take my brother in law, Uncle Dom, with us! He’d get a weekend in Melbourne on us and we could enjoy a rare night out knowing our 18-month-old was in safe and familiar hands.
But where to stay? A family room would be a bit, well, awkward! And two hotel rooms? Exy! And hotel rooms aren’t the best places to entertain very active and sometimes noisy toddlers either! So when Stayz offered us the opportunity to stay at one of the properties on their books, Yellow Door, it seemed perfect.
Yellow Door in Melbourne’s Coburg was a 50-minute drive from the wedding venue in the Yarra and super close to the city for exploring the next day. With four bedrooms we were spoilt for choice. Two had en suites and there was an third bathroom as well.
But the best part about this house, on a quiet residential street, was how ridiculously family and child friendly it was! Usually, if we go and stay somewhere, we start with the sweep of anything breakable, moving it to a cupboard or a high shelf. But we didn’t need to do that here. Not that it was bare; it was actually really nicely and comfortably furnished. There just wasn’t any extra, unnecessary, breakable stuff! The floorboards were spill proof and it was all on one level apart from a small step down to the living room.
Of course I’m all about the interiors and this one was really stylish with just the right amount of art, cushions, throw rugs and fresh flowers to look like they’d made the effort. Not a hint of holiday home hand me downs or mix and match nanna chic to be seen! And some lovely period features too.
It got even better when we opened the back door the next morning, in daylight, and discovered a completely fenced yard with table and chairs, where Sebby could happily and safely explore and we could enjoy our breakfast.
Speaking of eating, the house comes with a high chair and a cot, which was assembled for us (make sure you mention in advance if you stay there and want to use it) and we even found a big box of toys in a wardrobe (you can only fit so many in your luggage after all!).
Mummy and Daddy enjoying the wedding while Uncle Dom babysits back at Yellow Door!
This would be an amazing place to stay with a few other couples, or even another family, for a weekend in Melbourne. And even better there’s another house behind belonging to the same people, and it’s possible to rent them both at the same time (connected via the back yard).
Stayz provides whole houses to rent throughout Australia; they don’t offer individual rooms or shared accommodation, but the whole house so you can stay together with your loved ones. This makes it a great option for a family getaway. With more than 40,000 properties on their books, you’re sure to find something that suits you! If you’d like to stay at Yellow Door too, find the details here.
Disclosure: We stayed at Yellow Door courtesy of Stayz in exchange for an honest review.
The Art Series Hotel Group expanded into Australia’s east coast last month with the opening of The Johnson in Brisbane, taking its name from the Sydney born abstract artist Michael Johnson, whose work features throughout.
“We are pleased to finally unveil The Johnson and all it has to offer to the local community and guests. We have no doubt there is something for everyone to enjoy, and will set a new benchmark for design-inspired hotels,” says William Deague, CEO of Asian Pacific Group, the Art Series Hotel Group parent company.
Guest room
Located in the heritage listed ‘Main Roads Building,’ in the Brisbane CBD-fringe suburb of Spring Hill, the modernist property was originally designed by the influential architect Karl Langer and a three-year renovation has seen it massively overhauled. The property now boasts a boutique hotel, residential apartments, serviced offices, a 50-metre Michael Klim designed rooftop pool, BBQ area and terrace and an adjoining restaurant, bar and café. The hotel itself also features a designer gym, branded Smart Cars and vintage Lekker bicycles that are available for guests to explore the Queensland capital.
Rooftop pool
The hotel’s industrial styling is the perfect canvas on which to showcase Johnson’s work with originals and giclee prints on display, all centred around an ocean theme – think rippling waves, reflected light and the glowing, phosphorescent creatures within. The art doesn’t end there though with ‘The Red Cube’ featuring too – the heritage listed large metal sculpture has been restored and sits at the hotel’s entrance. And like the other hotels in the stable, The Johnson will also feature the Art Series Hotel Group’s signature art tours, dedicated art channels, artist documentaries and art libraries.
The seventh outpost for the luxuriously quirky designer hotel brand, QT Melbourne opened recently and, with its super stylish interiors, it’s sure to set tongues wagging. Located in the city’s luxury fashion precinct – an area known as the ‘Paris end,’ the hotel was designed by the acclaimed architect Angelo Candalepas, with interiors created by interior designer Nic Graham and architectural design specialist Shelley Indyk.
Guest room
The hotel boasts handcrafted black steel, stone and timber that together create an industrial minimalist feel throughout the 188 guest rooms and 15 apartments. There are glamorous touches too though with a smattering of brass, bronze and splashes of vibrant colour.
Feature staircase
One of the more memorable design aspects of the hotel is, funnily enough in this mod-con age, the staircase. “The decision to resurrect an old grand staircase feature, which traditionally always existed in luxury hotels is the stand out design element. It’s not a contemporary setting, but a striking aspect and focal point within the space,” says the hotel’s interior designer Nic Graham.
Custom carpet runners line the hallways
The bold, colourful feel continues in the hallways via custom carpet runners designed by Shelley alongside Jo Wooley from Brintons. The effective concept is designed to look like paint being poured out into the hallways and guest rooms.
The hotel also features a plethora of contemporary art, from a range of disciplines, in its public spaces and guest rooms. The vibrant commissions include pieces from Melbourne based artists Gabriella and Silvana Mangano, Grant Stevens, Claire Healy, Sean Cordeiro, Jennifer Steinkamp and street artist James Beattie. Janet Burchill and Jennifer McCamley’s ‘Interpretation of dreams’ is one of the hotel’s key works and features suspended spirals of neon light.
Janet Burchill and Jennifer McCamley’s ‘Interpretation of dreams’
Rooms start at $220 per night (opening special), book your stay here.
Have you ever stayed in a hotel room and wanted take home some of the furniture or accessories? We have of course! And now, in what is a rather novel concept, you actually can.
In one of the more original partnerships we have seen, Pullman Sydney Hyde Park has collaborated with the Australian furniture and homewares company Matt Blatt to create the Matt Blatt Suite. Offering hotel guests a fully immersive experience, everything in the suite is available to purchase.
“We are excited to debut our first-ever one-of-a-kind Matt Blatt Suite at Pullman Sydney Hyde Park. Inspired by the Cuban jungle, the space showcases Matt Blatt’s diverse range of quirky wares, designed to stimulate and inspire the senses. We hope that Pullman Sydney Hyde Park guests enjoy the space and have fun exploring all the suite has to offer,” says Matt Blatt designer Ehren Ozimek.
Located on the 20th floor, the suite features plenty of Matt Blatt’s signature quirk – bold colours sit alongside animal paraphernalia and luxe soft furnishings. Statement pieces include some teak monkeys, Starsky the hen and Piggy Sue the piglet, the Contour lounge chair, cowhide rug and the Big Apple three-seat sofa. Animal Kingdom wallpaper also features along with animal prints from the Matt Blatt ‘fur baby’ collection. The majority of pieces are not replica.
Aside from the furniture and homewares, the suite also features lots of interesting technology including a Samsung LED SMART TV (with Netflix), an iPad mini and the Philips Hue 2.0 lighting system which offers some pretty awesome customisation – controlled via the in-suite iPad or by Siri voice control, guests wanting to rise early can use lighting to wake them up in the morning and those that want to sleep in can dim the lighting at the touch of a button.
Priced from $739 per night, the suite is available for bookings until July 2017. Visit here for more.
I have a serious soft spot for heritage buildings reimagined for today and Sydney’s latest five-star hotel, the Primus, is nothing short of a magical transformation. The former Sydney Water Board headquarters in Pitt Street epitomises the expression ‘great bones’ but years of decay had left them needing some serious cosmetic work. And when you add to that the challenge of turning what was a building full of offices into a luxury hotel and restaurant, this was never going to be a straightforward task.
The design and architecture firm for the job was Woods Bagot, led by Wade Little. Heritage features of this once important public building have been preserved, repaired and used as inspiration, and the hints of Art Deco, both original and new-but-perfectly-sympathetic, are everywhere. At the same time, this is a beautiful, contemporary, city hotel with a rooftop pool overlooking China Town. I’m not sure there is anywhere more unique to spend a night in Sydney. I was lucky enough to stay there recently and fell head over the hells for the place, returning later to try The Wilmot restaurant for lunch (delicious!).
“The chance to work on a building of such significance was an amazing opportunity we didn’t want to miss, said Wade, of the project, which was a year in the design stages and 18 months in construction. “The architecture of the building was hidden behind layers of previous renovations and this was definitely something that excited me.” Heritage buildings are his favourite to work on, in fact. “Rejuvenating buildings which are often in a dilapidated state is not only very rewarding, but at times can offer some exciting challenges.”
It’s hard to imagine it now, but Woods Bagot was first introduced to the building as a derelict office building, not occupied in some time. “The interior was a graveyard of eighties workstations, with peach and pink finishes. Many of the original features were either covered up or gone altogether. We started by looking at what we could see; bronze window frames, travertine and green marble, the striking red columns created by Italian craftsmen and the dark timber dado on the ground floor.
“The geometric patterning of the Art Deco period was explored on a giant scale, from the central carpet of the atrium to the grand foyer, which gives the guest the experience of being in a luxurious grand hotel. The profile of new walls, counters and decorative elements all have some reference, no matter how fine.”
In terms of making a former office building feel like a luxury hotel, its great bones certainly helped. “It has ceiling heights and proportions that you can’t really recreate from a new building,” Wade said. “The foyer and building façade had solid stone finishes which really helped define a starting point for the grand polished granite floor, travertine walls and brass detailing. The softer touch of furnishing and carpets provided the luxurious finish to the amazing backdrop.”
Anyone walking through the front door cannot help but be instantly wowed by the incredible marble-clad columns in the vast double-height foyer. “The opening within the floor had been covered over, the glazed skylight was no longer waterproof and the giant red columns had been all but destroyed,” said Wade, principal and global hotel sector leader. He explained they used archive photography to recreate the detailing of the plaster and marble.
The bar at the far end, in the lobby lounge of the ground floor, was originally a counter with offices behind. All the detail had been demolished, but there were photographs of the layered stone and brass. “We were able to recreate the tiered layering of the marble, which is also curved. It was a significant challenge for the builder and they did an amazing job.”
All this and there’s also a rooftop pool! That’s right, smack bang in the middle of the CBD! Wade says it’s his favourite part of the whole project and is all about comfort, relaxation and being free of all the grand trappings of the lobby. “The rooftop is a green oasis in the middle of Chinatown,” he adds. “A playful attitude has been taken to furniture and fabrics. The mix is teak, green and abundant navy; all different patterns and shapes.”
All manner of guests have stayed at the hotel since it opened in December, from fashionistas to business people, to former employees of the water board; even a couple who met after working in the building ended up getting married.
Wade loves that they have opened up a building to the public which for so long remained hidden. “We have achieved a great result for our client and the building in the longer term. It has been the culmination of so many efforts from a large group of people and it was great to be involved and be part of such a fantastic project.”
You could easily miss this hidden gem, with its rather unassuming entrance off the street, but next time you’re in the CBD, or if you’re planning a trip to Sydney, make sure you stop in, if not to stay, then for a cocktail or lunch at The Wilmot restaurant (lunch menu from $35 for one course and a glass of wine). Rooms from $290 a night or $330 with breakfast.
As the Sydney summer reaches its peak (although you wouldn’t know it by the current weather!), QT Hotels & Resorts brings 69 luxury guest suites to our most iconic beach.
The hotel embraces new technology, distinctive art and cutting edge design, while retaining the QT chain’s distinctive sense of quirk and unique design philosophy. With the interiors designed by Nic Graham, and artworks provided by artist Shaun Gladwell, QT Bondi boasts a fresh palette of optic white set against the pop of gelato pastels, with limed timber detailing adding a playful, beachside edge. Adding to the playful vibe is the hospitality attire, created by renowned costume designer Janet Hine.
“Shaun Gladwell draws extensively on the intense physical energy of the local context, blending kinetic movement with the landscape to evoke a brooding almost calming and still sense of romance,” said QT Hotels & Resorts art curator Amanda Love. “This provides a fascinating juxtaposition against the almost extreme sport experience to be enjoyed, providing a thoughtfully measured perspective that truly connects with the Bondi landscape.”
QT Bondi is part of the Pacific Bondi development, which encompasses residential apartments and a plethora of retail and restaurant offerings with water glimpses. Take some time out to enjoy the Bondi lifestyle experience.
Canberra’s newest bar is the perfect blend of traditional Italian elements and modern chic design. Meet Joe’s Bar: the ideal place to sip on a pinot noir or cool cosmo while kicking back on a chocolate-tinted, fur-covered lounge chair.
Located on the ground floor of East Hotel, Joe’s Bar is Canberra’s newest addition to the small bars that are transforming the nation’s capital into the heart of hip. It was conceived by siblings Dan and Dion Bisa, whose vision was to create a space that offered contemporary comfort, while still maintaining their Italian roots. This space would be one that would also blend smoothly into East Hotel, being owned and operated by family business Bisa Hotels. In fact, the bar is even named for their father, Joe Bisa, a first-generation Italian-Australian.
“We wanted to take all the inspiration we have gathered from the glamour and sophistication of the truly stunning bars we have enjoyed in Italy and create something that melds these qualities with the vibrant energy of the bar and restaurant scene in Australia,” said Dan. “From the beginning, it was about the detail, from the artisans, to each and every wine that we have included on the menu.”
Kelly Ross, creative director at The Gentry, was engaged to work on the chic Italian project. The rich colour palette for the bar was brought to life by seeing it in terms of wine terminology, drawing on qualities of clarity, brilliance, tone and depth. Murano glass and a concrete curtain hint at the north Italian heritage. A quirky rope installation, a tasteful pinot-hued pink wall and low hanging lights are constantly playing up the contradictions between soft and hard, old and new.
The bar itself is a colossal leather-finished granite, flowing effortlessly into the natural, oiled timbers and contrasted against polished stone. This statement piece perfectly compliments the wine list; a selection of the finest Italian wines, alongside some of the best wines from the Canberra region. Without overlooking its contemporary style, the bar also features an enviable cocktail list, as well as imported and local beer.
“It was important for us to have representation on our wine list from not only some of the classic Italian wine producing districts, but from the Canberra region as well,” said Dan. “My vision was to have the best wines possible available to enjoy in an inspirational and stunning space – a multisensory experience.”
The attention to detail in Joe’s bar extends beyond tasteful aesthetic cues. Designed by Italian-born chef, Francesco Balestrieri, the authentic Italian dishes are made in-house using seasonal and local produce, and are a perfect compliment to the wine selection. This is more than just your typical concept bar – it is an intimate space to be shared with friends, a true fusion of contemporary details and north Italian heritage.
This season, Sheridan collaborated with renowned Australian stylist, Steve Cordony, and asked him to show us how to transform your home with hotel inspired luxury.
“The hotel luxe look is about checking into a lovely hotel and having crisp sheets and warm towels – so why shouldn’t we apply this to our everyday lives? As with everything, it’s the small details that make your space beautiful and more importantly make you feel special,” Steve says.
Hotel Luxury: three different ways.
“Structure is important when creating a hotel luxe bedroom. Clean crisp lines, and tailored pillows create a sense of elegance and formality. I love layering with European pillows, with standard in front and a smaller breakfast accent cushion in front. I love having a throw at the base of the bed and using a bed topper and deluxe feather and down quilt all create a luxuriously indulgent looking bed. Each look is about creating a contemporary, luxurious space that feels indulgent and super chic while remaining warm and inviting.”
Contemporary chic. Everyone knows hotel luxury begins with layering of high quality 1200 thread count sheeting. With Palais Luxe in Dove, I wanted to make sure the environment was light, airy and more feminine. I love using shades of grey and this particular tone of grey is warm but still contemporary. I kept the accessories monochromatic and accented with a touch of gold to give a hint of the unexpected.
Palais Lux 1200TC Queen Quilt Cover $599.95, Tailored Pillowcase $99.95, Tailored European Pillowcase $99.95, Standard Pillowcase Pair $109.95, Queen Flat and Fitted Sheet $269.95 in Dove, Lanham Silk Pillowcase in Snow $99.95.
Boutique style. The classic Millennia receives a boutique-hotel makeover in a new midnight tone. Deep navy is one of my favourite colours as it has so much depth and the subtle stripe pattern of the bed linen adds that touch of sophistication. I accented with a tonal colour palette of natural rattan on the bedhead, which gives great texture, aged brass, gold, mirror and chrome.
Millennia 1200TC Queen Quilt Cover $599.95, Tailored Pillowcase $99.95, Tailored European Pillowcase $99.95, Standard Pillowcase Pair $109.95, Queen Flat and Fitted Sheet $269.95 in Midnight.
Graphic and masculine. Anyone who knows me, knows I love black and white – it’s a classic and luxurious palette. For styling 1200 thread count Palais in Silver I wanted to create a graphic, more masculine look. Keeping the shapes strict and formal with accessories and furniture work perfectly with the structure and subtle pattern of the linen. Think Tom Ford meets Palm Beach.
Palais 1200TC Queen Quilt Cover $599.95, Tailored Pillowcase $99.95, Tailored European Pillowcase $99.95, Standard Pillowcase Pair $109.95 and Queen Flat Sheet $269.95 in Silver. Vachon wool throw in Smoke $249.95.
Create a sanctuary. The bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the home. It is a sanctuary that should feel personal and comfortable and styled like any other room in the home. Simple ideas such as rolling or folding hand towels on a side table beside the bath with some fresh flowers and a scented candle adds an elegant touch. There is nothing more indulgent than monogramming and having personalised initials on your towels – it’s all about the details!
Palais Hand Towel $32.95 and Bath Towel $54.95 in Silver and French Blue, Personalisation additional $15.00.
. With more than 40,000 properties on their books, you’re sure to find something that suits you! If you’d like to stay at Yellow Door too, find the 
