Last week, Element by Westin announced the opening of Element Melbourne Richmond. Owned and developed by TRC (Aust), the hotel marks the debut of the Element brand in Australia and with it, the longer-stay brand’s signature eco-conscious ethos and commitment to helping healthy, active guests maintain a balanced lifestyle while traveling.
“The launch of Element Melbourne Richmond marks a significant milestone for Marriott International, as the first of its kind in Australia,” said Mike Fulkerson, Vice President, Brand & Marketing, Asia-Pacific, Marriott International. “A recognized industry leader in the longer-stay eco-space, Element Hotels promotes a balanced approach to living and travel. The debut comes as travelers are increasingly seeking out accommodation that offers a flexible environment to live, work and connect.”
Element Melbourne Richmond is situated in the new Botanicca Corporate Park on the banks of the Yarra River, six kilometers from Melbourne’s city center. Situated moments from the buzzing dining and shopping of Richmond’s Swan Street and a short drive from the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Victoria Arts Centre, the hotel is a good option for both extended-stay guests, as well as travelers in town for a few days.
All aspects of the property are designed to provide guests with a place to unwind and recharge, no matter if traveling for business or leisure, or for a short trip or extended stay. Designed by award-winning Melbourne architects, Rothelowman, a curved façade reflects the winding Yarra River, while tones inspired by the Australian flora sit throughout all interior spaces, connecting guests with the locale. Oversized windows provide an abundance of natural light, and eco-conscious touches such as energy-saving LED lighting, CO2 sensors monitoring air quality and water-saving taps and fixtures, play into the brand’s philosophy.
Each of the 163 guest rooms and five deluxe balcony king rooms include thoughtful touches like extra space, natural light, spa-inspired bathrooms, the signature Heavenly® Bed, and high-speed Wi-Fi. A select number of rooms also feature energy-efficient kitchenettes, ideal for guests planning a longer stay, or those traveling in larger groups.
An innovative, multifunctional dining space provides a home away from home for guests. The space transforms daily from the location for the brand’s signature complimentary Rise breakfast, offering health-focused options like a chef-made omelet, a fresh fruit and yoghurt station and locally-supplied coffee and tea, to Mint Lane Restaurant & Bar for lunch and dinner, serving seasonal modern Australian fare using fresh local ingredients. Guests can enjoy the brand’s signature evening Relax reception four days a week, which offers complimentary local beers and wines and small bites, while the 24/7 Restore grab-and-go pantry is available for guests to purchase snacks and food items to prepare in their rooms, as well as everyday essentials.
Additional amenities include the 24/7 Motion Fitness centre, fitted with the latest Technogym Equipment offering yoga classes, as well as the complimentary Bikes-to-Borrow program that allows guests to take their workout outdoors – bike paths that connect to Melbourne’s CBD are located nearby. The hotel is also pet friendly, offering pet beds, toys and even a dog-friendly mini bar, meaning guests can travel with all of their loved ones.
The hotel boasts four modern meeting spaces, spanning a total of 256 square meters. Located on level five, rooms can be configured to welcome between 12 to 250 guests, all featuring the latest technology, eco-friendly practices and lots of bright, natural light. An outdoor deck space provides sweeping views of Melbourne’s skyline and CBD. A dedicated events team is on hand to provide ongoing support to ensure that all meetings, events and conferences are a success for both business guests and planners.
“We’re excited to be bringing a new experience to the Australian market, catering to the eco-conscious traveler who is looking to maintain a balanced lifestyle when on the road,” said Harry Singh, General Manager, Element Richmond Melbourne. “From our spacious guest rooms, to our wholesome food options and amenities, no matter how long a guest stays, Element Melbourne Richmond ensures time away from home doesn’t mean time away from life.”