Paying homage to Melbourne's maritime history

1 Hotel Melbourne has officially opened in the revitalized North Wharf precinct, boasting 220 meters of Yarra River waterfront. This architectural marvel not only honors Melbourne's rich heritage but also "charts a blueprint" for a more sustainable future, bringing its vision to life through biophilic design principles that fulfill a commitment to harmonious coexistence with nature. The project's architectural centerpiece is the restored Shed 5—the last remaining heritage-listed cargo shed from Melbourne's shipping heyday. The hotel's design also emphasizes fostering human connections, nurturing creativity, and building community, offering chef-driven dining experiences from morning to night, wellness therapies, and energizing activities like sound baths, DJ performances, and zero-waste cocktail workshops. Design Aesthetics: Inspired by Nature, Rooted in History 1 Hotel Melbourne's design philosophy is deeply rooted in the brand's "nature-first" ethos and dedication to biophilic design—Victoria's untamed wilderness, from the rugged cliffs of the Great Ocean Road to the lush canopies of the Dandenong Ranges, is distilled into stunning design elements. Upon entering the hotel's soaring lobby, guests are greeted by a narrative of regeneration and revival—striking granite walls crafted from industrial byproducts echo Victoria's coastal geology. In the signature restaurant, From Here by Mike, repurposed shed beams form a dramatic entrance portal. Over 7,000 plants throughout the hotel recreate Victoria's biodiverse outdoors indoors, reinforcing 1 Hotels' biophilic ethos. 🛏️ The hotel features 277 serene rooms, including 36 suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing skyline or Yarra River views. Some walls are clad in reclaimed railway sleepers from Victoria and New South Wales. 💗 Room numbers are crafted from recycled timber salvaged from the site's original underwater wharf piles, bearing unique shipworm markings and preserved moss accents. Smart thermostats, energy-efficient switches, and eco-friendly materials underscore the hotel's environmental commitment. Beyond rooms and suites, 1 Hotel Melbourne offers 114 branded residences. Owners enjoy exclusive services like private chef dinners and in-residence spa treatments. The crown jewel is the 18th-floor penthouse, designed by Riverlee founder Clement Lee and Fender Katsalidis, featuring a private terrace, lounge, library, and dining space with river and skyline views. The hotel's launch also marks the debut of "Regeneration: The Art of Renewal," a curated art project by One Design Office and MONA's DarkLab. Featuring works by Vanessa Barragão, Jamie North, and Indigenous artists Naminapu Maymuru-White and Yhonnie Scarce, the collection uses recycled and natural materials to explore resilience, culture, and environmental stewardship—from suspended glass eel installations to towering planted-concrete sculptures. Reimagined Dining & Celebrations 1 Hotel Melbourne's culinary experiences embody its sustainability ethos, with every detail—from sourcing to design—meticulously crafted to nourish guests while honoring the planet. The signature restaurant, From Here by Mike, marks chef Mike McEnearney's first hotel collaboration. Known for Sydney's Kitchen by Mike and bestselling cookbooks, McEnearney designed shareable dishes like freshly shucked oysters with pickled radish and finger lime vinaigrette, and twice-baked goat cheese soufflé with rosemary cream. 40% of the wines are local, including biodynamic selections, alongside cocktails made with upcycled ingredients. The space reflects nature's raw beauty. Other venues amplify the brand's eco-conscious hospitality. Crane Bar & Lounge serves botanical cocktails with local spirits and live DJs. Neighbours Café offers pour-over coffee, wholesome bites, and smoothies in a sunlit, plant-filled space. Downstairs, Upstairs is a word-of-mouth cocktail bar where crafted drinks, creative bites, and casual banter create unforgettable nights. For stylish, low-impact events, the hotel offers over 1,000 sqm of flexible space. The riverfront Seafarers venue hosts up to 900 guests with cutting-edge AV, while meeting suites combine for larger gatherings. All spaces feature biophilic design, natural light, reclaimed materials, and lush greenery. Nature • Immersion 1 Hotel Melbourne curates activities that deepen connections—with the city, nature, and oneself. From wellness and fitness to food and culture, daily offerings balance movement and mindfulness: sunrise riverside runs, guided meditation, tarot readings, and mineral salt blending. Evenings bring sound baths under the full moon, seasonal tastings, and cocktail soirées. Programs evolve with the seasons—August focuses on wellness, October aligns with Melbourne Fashion Week. Many are co-created with local chefs, herbalists, musicians, and artists, ensuring authentic Melbourne experiences. Wellness is woven into every experience. The Bamford Wellness Spa, a partnership with organic lifestyle pioneer Carole Bamford, offers natural treatments and a wellness area with a pool, sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi. The Field House gym features advanced equipment, personal trainers, and mindful movement classes. Its sustainable design includes locally sourced timber and certified acoustic panels. Sustainability: Beyond Surface-Level Adjacent Seafarers Rest Park adds 3,500 sqm of native greenery, enhancing biodiversity and public access while honoring maritime history. This aligns with a broader vision—transforming North Wharf into a more livable, walkable, and inclusive destination. Guests are encouraged to explore mindfully: the hotel is steps from iconic arts, culture, and sports venues, with direct access to Melbourne’s free tram line. For excursions, Audi e-tron electric vehicles are available for complimentary rides.