IHG Hotels & Resorts, renowned for their expansive global network of over 6,000 hotels, have announced the opening of their third Hotel Indigo in Australia. Situated on the historic Flinders Lane in Melbourne, the new addition marks the first Hotel Indigo in the city.
Flinders Lane, stretching across Melbourne’s CBD, is known for its vivid contrast of contemporary restaurants and glimpses into the city’s goldmining past. The hotel boasts proximity to a thriving laneway culture marked by street art, hidden cafés, boutiques, and galleries.
In a unique blend of history and contemporary design, the property, managed by the Pro-invest Group, features 216 guest rooms. Each room is meticulously designed, drawing inspiration from the neighbourhood and the iconic fashion photographer, Helmut Newton, who once had his studio nearby.
Guests will be greeted by a lobby-gallery space that pays tribute to Newton’s photographic masterpieces, complete with a selfie booth where visitors can create their Newton-inspired moments. The entire hotel oozes creativity, with interiors crafted by Australian design firm Suede Interiors that echo the themes of “lights, camera, action.”
Beyond the rooms, the hotel is set to open a fitness centre on its mezzanine level in October and will soon provide event facilities for up to 200 guests by 2024. Dining options have been enhanced with the addition of BESO, a streetside Spanish bar and restaurant offering contemporary spins on classic Spanish tapas.
Joseph Simmons, General Manager of Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders, expressed his enthusiasm for the hotel’s potential to reshape the tourist experience in Melbourne. He believes the rich tapestry of Flinders Lane, combined with the intriguing design inspired by Helmut Newton, will compel guests to explore Melbourne from a refreshed perspective.
Echoing his excitement, Matt Tripolone, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts – Australasia & Pacific, emphasized the unique offerings of every Hotel Indigo property. He feels confident that the Melbourne edition, inspired by its vibrant neighbourhood, will serve as a prime example of IHG’s vision to redefine luxury and lifestyle in hospitality.
Hotel Indigo’s global presence is growing steadily, with 143 hotels in operation and 128 more in the pipeline, making it a vanguard in boutique lifestyle hospitality.