QT Melbourne was a benchmark project as it was QT’s first custom built property, from an old cinema to a boutique hotel. We had an old concrete shell to work with and worked to build contemporary layers indoors. Like all QT’s, inspiration was sought by the property’s location. QT Melbourne sits at the Paris End of nearby Collins St, and the Parisian flair extends from the interiors throughout the hotel.

The design philosophy of QT Melbourne is industrial inspired with handcrafted steel, stone and timber, creating contrasting textures teamed with eclectic interiors of the hotel’s public spaces. Bespoke furniture, provocative graphics and a strong use of colour are some of the highlights, harmonised by glimpses of high-tech video art adding movement and intrigue to the space. The most memorable design feature of QT Melbourne is Readers Digest, an installation by Claire Healy and Sean Corderio comprising 8,000 books with love themes and arranged with spines graduating from dark to light. Another stand out design element was the decision to resurrect an old grand staircase feature, which traditionally always existed in luxury hotels- not a contemporary setting, but a striking aspect and focal point within the space.

Fashion, art and a Euro-inspired mélange of old and new give QT Melbourne its eclectic style. Exposed concrete is set against black steel, bronze, brass, and this is offset by strong and bold visuals. Vintage elements blended with modern touches, and floral against pattern are some of the design highlights adding detail to the space. Striking LED digital art is a feature of the public areas within the hotel, the works invariably imbued with a sense of European urbanism, adding a dramatic and intriguing display to the hotel’s enticing surrounds. The hotel boasts handcrafted black steel, stone and timber that together create an industrial minimalist feel.