MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – Curio Collection by Hilton welcomed Next Hotel Melbourne as the brand’s first Melbourne property in mid-December.

Set in the 80 Collins precinct – one of the Australian city’s high fashion and hospitality hotspots  – Next Hotel Melbourne first opened in 2021. The property is characterized by sophisticated interiors inspired by world travel and the local neighborhood of Collins Street couturières, nearby Chinatown and the site’s history as the Horse & Carriage Bazaar throughout the late 19th century. Artwork from local artists, eclectic objet d’art and residential touches contribute to its quintessential Melbourne character.

“We are thrilled to welcome Hilton’s third brand in Melbourne with this exceptional hotel. Next Hotel Melbourne now joins Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street and DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne Flinders Street in this storied city. Our portfolio of brands is catered to meet the diverse needs of today’s travelers and showcases our strength and commitment to expanding further in this region,” said Paul Hutton, area vice-president and head of Australasia, Hilton.

“Designed to offer guests one-of-a-kind moments in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations, each Curio Collection by Hilton hotel is celebrated for its unique story, encouraging guests to explore and immerse themselves in the locale. As the second Curio Collection by Hilton hotel in Australia and the first in Melbourne, Next Hotel Melbourne is where guests can embrace a distinctive and artful way of life,” said Andrew Ling, senior director, Lifestyle Brands, Asia Pacific, Hilton.

Next Hotel Melbourne offers 255 guestrooms and suites, each of which is outfitted with thoughtful amenities including including Dyson hairdryers, Melbourne-based Hunter Lab care products, a curated mini bar featuring in-house cocktails and local artisan snacks. Guests also have access to an evolving program of distinctly Melbourne film, fashion and visual arts events and activities staged in the hotel’s spaces throughout the year.

La Madonna Restaurant & Bar on the third floor of the hotel is helmed by renowned Melbourne chef, Paul Turner. Its noteworthy Italian-Asian inspired menu along with a unique in-house barrel-ageing program for cocktails and spirits, has earned it several accolades including Victoria’s Best Hotel Restaurant and a Good Food Guide Chef’s Hat. Meanwhile, street side Ingresso Café, located on the ground floor, offers early morning coffees, on-the-go pastries and lunch.

The hotel also features an exclusive guest-only lounge – The Club – a social/work space serving a continental breakfast, refreshments around the clock, and in the evening, Victorian wines and a selection of bites.

Other facilities include a 24-hour fitness center, and two small meeting rooms (six and 10 people).

“The whole team is excited for our hotel’s new chapter as we join Curio Collection by Hilton’s prestigious global portfolio that recognizes our remarkable Melbourne-style of hospitality on the world stage,” says Cameron Brown, hotel manager, Next Hotel Melbourne.