Wednesday, June 18, 2025
1 Hotels, the luxury lifestyle brand founded by Barry Sternlicht, proudly introduces its first property in Australia—1 Hotel Melbourne. Located along a scenic stretch of the Yarra River in Melbourne’s revitalized North Wharf precinct, this innovative hotel offers a fresh approach to sustainable luxury in one of the world’s most forward-thinking cities.
In collaboration with Melbourne-based Riverlee, 1 Hotel Melbourne celebrates the city’s storied past while embracing the future with biophilic design principles. A standout element of the property is the revitalization of Goods Shed No. 5, Melbourne’s last remaining heritage goods shed, which serves as a tribute to the city’s maritime heritage. The hotel’s design blurs the boundary between urban life and nature, offering an immersive experience that connects guests with their surroundings.
“The opening of 1 Hotel Melbourne marks a powerful moment for our brand as we expand in the Asia Pacific region,” says Barry Sternlicht, 1 Hotels Founder and Chairman of Starwood Hotels. “As we grow our global footprint, we’re focused on markets that reflect our values—places where nature, culture, and innovation converge in meaningful ways. Melbourne is a city that not only understands the importance of sustainability, it celebrates it.”
“At 1 Hotels, we’ve always believed that true luxury is rooted in purpose, impact, and authentic experiences,” said Raul Leal, CEO of Starwood Hotels. “1 Hotel Melbourne brings sustainability and style into harmony, with a focus on wellness, local connection, and day-to-night programming that creates a tangible sense of place. From the moment you arrive, you feel like you’re part of the city.”
“Through our partnership with 1 Hotels, we have reimagined this heritage waterfront site into a sustainable luxury destination that honors Melbourne’s maritime past while setting new benchmarks for environmental stewardship,” says David Lee, Development Director at Riverlee. “This project perfectly embodies Riverlee’s commitment to creating visionary developments that respect our city’s past while building for its future.”
Nature-Inspired Design
1 Hotel Melbourne’s design is inspired by the diverse landscapes of Victoria, from the dramatic cliffs of the Great Ocean Road to the verdant woodlands of the Dandenong Ranges. The hotel emphasizes the integration of nature, with more than 7,000 plants incorporated into the space, creating an urban sanctuary that feels in harmony with the environment.
The building is a blend of modern luxury and historical preservation. Goods Shed No. 5, built in 1895, was once a vital part of Melbourne’s maritime economy before falling into disuse in the 1970s. More than 2,000 original elements from the shed, including bluestone pavers, steel trusses, and timber beams, were salvaged and reincorporated into the hotel’s design. The historic Malcolm Moore crane, dating back to 1942, has been meticulously restored and now stands as a sculptural tribute to Melbourne’s industrial heritage.
A Unique Stay
1 Hotel Melbourne offers 277 tranquil guest rooms, including 36 suites, all designed with sustainability in mind. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide views of the Yarra River or the Melbourne skyline, while reclaimed timber from Melbourne’s Metro Tunnel and salvaged railway sleepers create a unique and tactile atmosphere. Guest room door numbers are made from original subaquatic piers, which add a distinctive character to the space.
The hotel also features 114 luxury waterfront residences, providing residents with exclusive services such as private chef dinners and spa treatments. The 18th-floor penthouse, created in partnership with Riverlee founder Clement Lee OAM, features expansive views and a private outdoor terrace for residents to savor.
Dining and Community
1 Hotel Melbourne’s dining offerings are deeply rooted in sustainability. The signature restaurant, From Here by Mike, is the first hotel collaboration with renowned chef Mike McEnearney. Known for his hyper-local and produce-driven approach, McEnearney’s menu includes dishes like Freshly Shucked Oysters with Pickled Daikon & Finger Lime Vinaigrette and Twice Baked Goat’s Cheese Soufflé with Rosemary Cream.
Other food and beverage venues include Crane Bar & Lounge, offering botanical cocktails and live DJ sets, and Neighbours Café, a bright space serving nutrient-dense meals and smoothies. For a more intimate experience, Upstairs is a hidden cocktail bar where guests can enjoy craft cocktails and artisanal bites.
Sustainable Events and Wellness
1 Hotel Melbourne offers more than 1,000 square meters of flexible event space, including the Seafarers Event Space, which can accommodate up to 900 guests. Designed with biophilic principles, these spaces are ideal for gatherings that prioritize sustainability. The hotel’s Certified Sustainable Gatherings program ensures that every event is planned with a focus on minimizing waste and sourcing locally.
Wellness is at the heart of the hotel’s offerings. Guests can engage in wellness activities such as sunrise river runs, yoga, and DIY salt-blending workshops. The Bamford Wellness Spa, developed in collaboration with Carole Bamford, provides an array of organic treatments. Meanwhile, The Field House Gym is equipped with state-of-the-art fitness equipment and made from locally sourced materials, offering an environmentally conscious space for wellness and movement.
Sustainable Living
At 1 Hotel Melbourne, sustainability is more than just an operational focus—it’s embedded into every part of the guest experience. The hotel is on track to achieve LEED Silver certification with systems like solar arrays and rainwater harvesting. Thoughtful details, such as shower timers and operable windows, promote mindful living, allowing guests to contribute to sustainability without sacrificing comfort.
Adjacent to the hotel is Seafarers Rest Park, a green space created to enhance biodiversity and public access to the waterfront. The park honors the site’s maritime history while contributing to Melbourne’s broader sustainability goals.
1 Hotel Melbourne is more than just a place to stay—it’s an immersive experience that encourages guests to connect with nature, the city, and themselves. By prioritizing sustainable luxury, the hotel establishes a new benchmark for conscious, purpose-driven hospitality.
