The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne is Australia’s tallest hotel, occupying the top 17 floors, plus three lower levels, of an 80-storey tower. The 257-suite hotel is inspired by the identity of Melbourne, full of contrasts and surprises; at once international and deeply rooted in the local.

The design expresses the city’s rich layers of culture and history, incorporating influences from its Indigenous story, Victorian-era gold rush, European heritage and the startling moments captured in its laneway life. These influences are threaded through refined spaces that pair a sophisticated elegance with edgy urban touches.

Guests arrive via a ground floor arrival lobby that foregrounds Indigenous art and stories and proceed to level 80 and the sky lobby reception, an all-day dining space where they are met with exceptional views across Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.

Guestrooms and suites are distributed between level 65 and 79. The wellness facilities and pool occupy level 64 and The Ritz-Carlton Club is accommodated on level 79. Throughout the hotel, Melbourne’s character is translated into a design that pairs classical elements with contemporary touches. Contrasts are expressed through the material palette, as well as crafting moments of surprise and unexpected elements, creating a sense of discovery for guests.

Furniture: BAR Studio custom designs, Kettal, Mobilia, Molteni&C, Hub Furniture, Gallotti&Radice, Living Interiors, Grazia & Co, B&B Italia, Space Furniture, ClassiCon, Anibou, Arper, Stylecraft. Lighting: The Flaming Beacon. Finishes: Elite bathware, JMT Leather, Tianjin Sunhill fabrics, BAR Studio, Custom-designed carpets, Godfrey Hirst, CSI Flooring HK, Phillip Jeffries, Kvadrat Maharam, Tapatex. Fittings & Fixtures: Astra Walker.

Photography: Peter Bennetts