A New Chapter in Sustainable Luxury: 1 Hotel Melbourne Opens Its Doors

1 Hotels, the mission-driven luxury lifestyle brand founded by hospitality visionary Barry Sternlicht, proudly unveils its long-awaited debut in Australia with the opening of 1 Hotel Melbourne—a transformative property redefining eco-conscious hospitality in one of the world’s most forward-thinking cities.

Situated along 220 meters of uninterrupted Yarra River frontage in Melbourne’s revitalized North Wharf precinct, 1 Hotel Melbourne emerges as a seamless blend of biophilic design, heritage preservation, and modern luxury. Developed in partnership with Melbourne-based Riverlee, the property is a tribute to nature and history, centered around the restored Goods Shed No. 5, the city’s last remaining maritime-era goods shed.

A Space Rooted in Nature and Culture

Inspired by Victoria’s landscapes—from the cliffs of the Great Ocean Road to the Dandenong Ranges—the hotel evokes nature’s raw beauty through reclaimed materials and lush greenery. More than 7,000 indoor plants, 4,500 square meters of reclaimed timber, and architectural details salvaged from historic infrastructure create a tactile, organic aesthetic. Even the Malcolm Moore crane, a 1942 industrial relic, has been reimagined as a sculptural icon along the riverfront.

Each of the hotel’s 277 guest rooms and 36 suites is a tranquil retreat with skyline or river views. Highlights include reclaimed railway sleeper walls, moss-accented room numbers, and low-VOC materials. Smart thermostats and energy-efficient switches continue the theme of low-impact luxury. For longer stays, the property also introduces 114 branded residences, including a penthouse designed by Riverlee founder Clement Lee OAM.

A Culinary Philosophy of Connection

Dining at 1 Hotel Melbourne is a celebration of seasonality and sustainability. From Here by Mike, led by renowned Australian chef Mike McEnearney, is the signature restaurant and his first hotel collaboration. With a focus on hyper-local ingredients and zero-waste cooking, the menu features standout dishes like freshly shucked oysters with finger lime vinaigrette and twice-baked goat’s cheese soufflé.

Additional venues include Crane Bar & Lounge, a botanical mixology hotspot with live DJs; Neighbours Café, a wellness-focused space serving nutrient-dense meals; and Upstairs, a discreet cocktail bar designed for intimate, memorable evenings.

Events with Purpose

The hotel’s 1,000+ square meters of event space—including the riverside Seafarers Event Space for up to 900 guests—have been designed using reclaimed materials and biophilic principles. The in-house Certified Sustainable Gatherings program ensures zero-waste practices and conscious planning across all functions.

Immersive Happenings and Holistic Wellness

1 Hotel Melbourne’s curated Happenings program offers everything from sunrise river runs and salt blending workshops to full moon sound healing and wine tastings. This seasonal lineup is co-created with local artists, herbalists, and musicians, ensuring authenticity and creativity year-round.

The wellness offering is anchored by Bamford Wellness Spa, a serene space offering all-natural treatments and a full wellness zone including an indoor pool, sauna, and spa. Guests also have access to The Field House Gym, which integrates eco-conscious materials with advanced fitness amenities and guided meditation sessions.

Sustainability as a Living Practice

Sustainability isn’t a concept here—it’s lived. The hotel is on track to earn LEED Silver certification and incorporates solar arrays, rainwater harvesting, and operable windows in 85% of rooms. In-room shower timers and reclaimed décor elements invite guests into a more conscious way of living.

Outside, the newly opened Seafarers Rest Park offers 3,500 square meters of native greenery and public access to the waterfront, enhancing biodiversity while honouring the site’s shipping legacy.

Explore Mindfully

Located within walking distance to Melbourne’s top art, culture, and sports venues—and directly accessible via the city’s free tram line—1 Hotel Melbourne also offers guests use of a fully electric Audi Q6 e-tron to explore sustainably.

A New Era of Conscious Travel

As the brand’s first property in the Asia Pacific region, 1 Hotel Melbourne delivers more than a stay—it invites guests to connect with nature, culture, and purpose in meaningful ways.

For bookings and details, visit www.1hotels.com/melbourne or follow @1hotel.melbourne.