Designed by Australian architects Cottee Parker, the 80-storey hotel’s spaces acknowledge indigenous heritage and a sense of place, notably through artworks and a ‘cultural soundscape’ playing during evenings in the lobby. 

The interiors, created by BAR Studio, also reference the Victorian-era gold rush, European heritage and current life in the city’s trendy laneways. 

Check-in is via the Sky Lobby Reception on Level 80 which has a double-vaulted ceiling and full-length windows with views from Port Philip Bay to Yarra and the mountains beyond.

The hotel’s 257 rooms and suites feature dark wood and natural stone punctuated with decorative hand-made glass panels, custom light fixtures and touches of gold. ‘Understated elegance’ was the intention, allowing the city views to take centre stage. 

The Ritz-Carlton Suite, one of the city’s largest, spans the length of the building and includes an in-room sauna and private pantry. 

Signature restaurant Atria serves ‘hyper-seasonal and innovative’ dishes. More casual dining and high tea are offered in the Lobby Lounge and cocktails with a view in the lofty Cameo bar. 

Guests staying in Club Level suites have access to more private dining and personalised service in the Ritz-Carlton Club.

The Indulgent Rose, a ritual blending a foot massage with warm rose otto oil and a soothing rose quartz Gu Sha facial is among signature treatments in the spa, which has a city-view infinity pool, a fitness centre and a yoga studio and uses ESPA products. 
 
Event spaces span two floors and include a Grand Ballroom with a floor-to-ceiling feature window inspired by the Great Hall of Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria. 

“We are thrilled to bring The Ritz-Carlton brand to Melbourne, and to open our second hotel in Australia,” said Tina Edmundson, president for luxury at Marriott International.

“With its destination-driven design inspired by the city’s past and present, combined with the finest amenities, exciting culinary offerings and highly personalized service, The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne exemplifies our commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences and creating meaningful memories in inspiring cities, the world over.”