A US$20.61 million investment to transform an existing property into a brand-new Pullman hotel – the first for Melbourne’s central business district – has been officially unveiled.
Owned by Erdigroup and operated under Accor’s upscale Pullman brand, the new Pullman Melbourne on Swanston opens following a complete rebuild and rebrand of the property formerly known as The Swanston Hotel Grand Mercure.
The official rebrand to Pullman from Grand Mercure is October 28, and a gala launch party event is to be held on November 12, an Accor spokesperson tells Business Traveller Asia-Pacific.
Ricky Jeffs, CEO of Erdigroup, said in a press release: “The original building was stripped-back to its structural bones – nothing was left untouched in the major overhaul, which has delivered a striking façade, re-designed guest rooms, a designer lobby, a brand-new restaurant and an exclusive club lounge overlooking the city.”
Rising 15 levels and offering views of the CBD, the hotel comprises 204 guestrooms and suites and is on Swanston Street at the gateway to the Little Bourke Street precinct – home to shopping and dining.
Four different interior designers, Rothelowman, STUDIO MAC, interiors by Foster and P49 were involved in the project.
“Key to the hotel’s design is an intriguing laneway entry that draws visitors in from Little Bourke Street through an ‘architectural tunnel’ opening onto an arresting lobby space to provide a distinct sense of arrival for guests,” said Jeffs.
“The hotel has been tailored to smart, successful business and leisure travellers who value immersive spaces, trendsetting food and beverage and leading-edge design – it will offer a seamless and intuitive experience, while providing access to Melbourne’s famed arts, culture, shopping and fashion.”
On the mezzanine level, the new Eva’s Restaurant & Bar offers all-day dining and drinks and has been designed to express an “urbane dining aesthetic and welcoming atmosphere to appeal to locals and visitors alike”, Accor said in a press release.
Another feature of the new hotel is the Club Lounge, a Pullman brand signature. The lounge is located on level 15 and set across an entire floor. Club guests also have access to an exclusive private event space, Room 1954.
All Premium Executive Rooms include club lounge access and all other rooms have the option to add on the club lounge access at the time of booking or at check in for an additional AU$60 (US$41.20) per person.
