Le Méridien makes debut in Australia
Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts has made its Australian debut with Le Méridien Melbourne. Originally built as a hotel in the 1850s, the site has been a cornerstone of Melbourne’s arts and culture scene throughout the years. Returning to its original interpretation as a hotel, Le Méridien Melbourne pays homage to its rich history.
Retaining the original Art Deco façade, the 12-storey building is designed by Melbourne architecture practice Peddle Thorp. Arriving guests are greeted by a private porte-cochère driveway, which features a mural by local artist Stephen Baker. Once inside the lobby, guests will find a space filled with mid-century inspired furniture, polished natural stone and terrazzo. A large-scale sculptural installation by Marta Figueiredo and projected video art by Wendy Yu introduces lobby visitors to Le Méridien’s global Unlock Art programme, which connects guests with the “Art of Noticing” self-guided walking tour and complimentary art gallery access.
The 235-room property, which includes 14 suites, sees contemporary style meeting mid-century elegance. Soothing neutrals are paired with tactile finishes, while pops of colour such as air-force blue velvet chairs nod to the brand’s Air France origins. Rooms on the higher floors offer floor-to-ceiling views over the pool and out to the east of Melbourne, while lower levels immerse guests in Melbourne’s bustling laneways.
“We are excited to introduce Le Méridien to Australia and bring the brand’s European essence of savouring the good life to global tastemakers and locals,” said Jennifer Connell, Global Brand Leader at Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts and Vice President of Distinctive Premium Brands, Marriott International. “Melbourne is a destination known for its rich history and thriving art, culture and culinary scene, which makes it the perfect fit for Le Méridien. We look forward to welcoming travellers as they explore Melbourne in style.”
All guestrooms feature the brand’s signature room scent, Malin + Goetz bath amenities, signature Le Méridien beds, Marshall Speakers and signature bottled cocktails by The Everleigh Bottling Co. Meanwhile, suites are equipped with black stone kitchenettes, premium Smeg appliances, luxury barware, oak board games and Yamaha MusicCast 500 turntables with a selection of vinyls from artists like Prince and James Brown, who once performed on-site.
As for additional amenities across the property, Le Splash is the hotel’s showpiece rooftop pool and terrace. The space holds a large-scale mural by Stephen Baker, alongside an open-air bar, which will host a seasonal pop-up cinema later in the year. Adjoining the pool deck is a 24-hour TechnoGym complete with virtual personal trainers and a sauna.
F&B offerings at Le Méridien Melbourne meanwhile take the form of lobby café Intermission, which transforms into a wine bar by night, and low-lit restaurant Dolly, which serves elevated European dishes by Executive Chef Christian Graebner. The hotel also offers 420m² of conference space, while a dedicated meetings floor comprises four additional rooms and three private working booths.
The latest Le Méridien opening – which forms part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 40 hotel brands – continues the growth of the brand across the globe.
