Sustainable Luxury Brand “1 Hotels” Debuts in Australia with New Location in Melbourne

May 13th, 2025

U.S.-based sustainable luxury hotel brand 1 Hotels is set to launch its first property in Australia, with a soft opening in Melbourne scheduled for June 2025. Reservations with promotional rates are now open. Developed in partnership with Riverlee, the hotel overlooks the Yarra River and features a striking asymmetrical glass façade, embodying 1 Hotels’ signature blend of nature-inspired design and eco-conscious luxury.

The eye-catching exterior of 1 Hotel Melbourne. Photo courtesy of 1 Hotels.

1 Hotels, the world’s first nature-inspired luxury lifestyle hotel brand, was founded in 2015 by Barry Sternlicht, the visionary behind Starwood Hotels. Rooted in sustainable architecture and eco-conscious design, the brand was born from a simple idea: while exploring the world through travel, we should also care for it — because it’s the only home we all share.

Set to open in June, 1 Hotel Melbourne is located in the heart of the city’s Central Business District and housed within the heritage-listed Goods Shed No. 5. The hotel redefines urban luxury by fusing sustainability, modern style, and wellness to offer a refreshed and mindful hospitality experience.

With its prime location, guests can easily access Melbourne’s top attractions, including Marvel Stadium, the Royal Botanic Gardens, premium shopping districts, and world-class theatres. The hotel is just a two-minute walk from a stop on the world’s largest tram network and is adjacent to a 3,500-square-meter native plant park, offering direct access to Melbourne’s serene riverside.

1 Hotel Melbourne showcases stunning views that transform from day to night.Photo courtesy of 1 Hotels.

The hotel’s striking exterior features asymmetrical architecture with floor-to-ceiling windows that reflect the historic Goods Shed No. 5 and the shimmering waters of the Yarra River. Inside, over 2,000 plants are thoughtfully placed to blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. The design also incorporates reclaimed wood furniture, with the lobby’s reception desk crafted from fallen trees, old wooden furnishings, and materials salvaged from the original shed.

1 Hotel Melbourne is currently pursuing

LEED Silver certification, prioritizing the use of recycled and repurposed materials throughout its design.

1 Hotel Melbourne offers a serene home-away-from-home for travelers seeking relaxation.  Photo courtesy of 1 Hotels.

For example, headboards are crafted from reclaimed railway sleepers, doors are adorned with moss accents, and room numbers are carved from recycled wharf timber, preserving traces of the site’s historical legacy.

An immersive stay where nature, tranquility, and luxury come together. Photo courtesy of 1 Hotels.

For instance, headboards are made from reclaimed railway sleepers, doors are accented with moss, and room numbers are carved from repurposed wharf timber—each element subtly showcasing the site’s historic character.

Source：Money.udn