The feel of Melbourne’s newest, cool hotel United Places is decidedly contemporary, an exquisite slice of calm for clued-in city slickers that looks set to be one of 2019’s most sought-after hotels.
There’s little indication that this slick building is actually a hotel. There is no check-in desk, no foyer.
A moodily lit monochrome lobby with black steel fins on one side, textured concrete on the other gives way to a dozen impeccably turned-out boutique suites that are as peaceful as they are polished. It’s easy to forget you have South Yarra’s buzzing restaurant scene at your doorstep – ideal for late-night hijinks, plus first-rate room serve at adjoining restaurant Matilda.
The huge suites are a stellar example of what we want from our hotels now – serene spaces that offer visitors an emotional experience. They feature plenty of greenery with expansive views of the Royal Botanic Gardens situated opposite and are a clever mix of sharp-edged sophistication and home comforts.
Expect clean lines aplenty, high thread count sheets, velvet Patricia Urquiola sofas, stone bathrooms, you’ll want to languish in all day.
Curl up on a designer navy quilted velvet sofa, pad around the walnut timber floors – the palette is straight up monochrome, with pleasing touches in every nook and cranny. We actually just wanted to stay put rather than get underneath the city – and enjoy the space.
And that’s just what we did – we stayed an extra night…always a sign of a truly great hotel.
There are curated in-room breakfasts by chef Scott Pickett (Estrelle, Saint Crispin). Design-wise, architects and interior designers Carr Design Group have opted for velvet curtains, ecru bathrooms, generous kitchens and big balconies. The scent is of sandalwood candles burning.
All is quiet but you’re not alone. You have personalised butler service.
On speed-dial to organise dry-cleaning, tables at adjoining restaurant Matilda (which provides room service) and any other finger-clicking requirements. Complimentary organic relaxing tea is brought in the afternoon, plus every evening after dinner – made from a blend of lemongrass, rose petals, lavender and chamomile.
Everywhere you look there is a clever detail: provocative light and shadows from Laura Woodward’s kinetic sculpture in the entrance hall, set in the ceiling void, dance on the floor.
Each kitchen comes with bespoke tableware by ceramicist Shari Lowndes, and bathrooms are stocked with an abundance of Le Labo soaps, shampoo, lotions and unguents.
Push a goodnight button which instantly cocoons the entire bedroom in lush moss-green velvet curtains.
Then there’s the exceptional breakfast, which is delivered whenever you’d like – with healthy, savoury and sweet options. Fresh juices, granola, muesli and yoghurt, avocado on sourdough, a quinoa salad with goat’s curd. And a jug of hot milk for the make-yourself macchiato. For privacy seekers, queue haters, and the noise phobic, this is the hotel concept of the future.
LOCATION
With health and wellbeing high on the traveler’s agenda, United Places felt like a rejuvenating wellness experience, as much as hotel. Destined to be a honeypot for the international style set. It’s a hotel experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned home and put away your suitcase. We’re tipping this hotel for glory. United Places Melbourne, 157 Domain Rd, South Yarra VIC 3141
To book a stay at United Places contact Mr & Mrs Smith: www.mrandmrssmith.com
