Starwood Hotels has opened its first 1 Hotel in Australia, unveiling 1 Hotel Melbourne on the Yarra River waterfront. The property developed in partnership with Melbourne firm Riverlee brings the brand’s eco-conscious luxury concept to the city’s North Wharf precinct.

Located along 220 metres of river frontage, the hotel blends modern sustainability with Melbourne’s industrial heritage. The project centres around the restored Goods Shed No. 5, the city’s last remaining maritime shed from the 19th century, which has been carefully preserved and incorporated into the design.

The 277-room hotel also includes 36 suites and 114 branded residences. Interiors feature reclaimed materials throughout, including timber salvaged from railway bridges, old shipping wharves, and construction sites across Victoria and New South Wales. More than 7,000 plants have been integrated indoors, reinforcing the focus on biophilic design.

Guests are welcomed by a lobby with a striking granite wall, while rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, reclaimed wood panelling, and smart energy-saving systems.

Dining is led by Australian chef Mike McEnearney, who oversees the hotel’s main restaurant, From Here by Mike. The restaurant focuses on seasonal, low-waste menus with locally sourced produce. Other dining spaces include Crane Bar & Lounge, Neighbours Café for casual meals, and a hidden cocktail bar known as Upstairs.

Wellness is at the core of 1 Hotel Melbourne, with its Bamford Wellness Spa offering a range of natural treatments. Created in partnership with Carole Bamford, known for her focus on organic and sustainable living, the spa also features an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and spa pool.

1 Hotel Melbourne offers over 1,000 square metres of event space, including a riverside venue that can accommodate up to 900 guests. All event areas have been designed with recycled materials and incorporate low-impact catering and zero-waste initiatives.

The hotel’s art programme, curated in partnership with local artists and designers, highlights works focused on resilience, nature and heritage, blending Indigenous and contemporary perspectives.

Sustainability measures are embedded throughout the site. In addition to using reclaimed materials, the property features solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems and natural ventilation in most rooms. Guests are encouraged to explore the city via electric vehicles or Melbourne’s free tram network.

Located near key cultural and sporting venues, the hotel aims to become a destination for both locals and visitors, offering a year-round programme of wellness activities, art events, and culinary experiences.