When hotel lobbies morph into art galleries

Hotel lobbies are spaces populated by people with time to kill. 

Waiting to check in; meeting someone, perhaps awaiting a taxi or Uber. 

It makes sense, then, that hotel spaces are increasingly being utilised as art galleries. 

That's the case at Rydges Melbourne, part of "a growing movement toward the integration of site-specific, bespoke art, not simply as decoration, but as a strategic tool to elevate guest experience and differentiate spaces".

The new example is Spectra, a vibrant new installation on display at Rydges Melbourne, created by acclaimed abstract expressionist Rowena Martinich and artist Geoffrey Carran. 

What is described as "their signature fusion of fine art and spatial design" aims to transforms the hotel’s walls, carpets and common areas into a "fully immersive, colour-saturated environment, a bold step in rethinking commercial interiors."

The exhibit tries to blur the lines between fine art and functional design, 

Lee Davey, general manager at Rydges Melbourne, says the partnership aligns with the hotel’s commitment to support local creatives.

"We’re excited to see our lobby come to life with Spectra, and we hope it sparks conversation and connection with our guests. 

"Collaborating with local talents like Rowena Martinich and Geoffrey Carran for Melbourne Design Week lets us support our community in a way that feels true to who we are. We’re proud to be part of what makes this city so special - its events, its festivals, and the creative spirit that brings people together.”

Featuring custom-designed carpets (in partnership with GH Commercial), a 12m wallpapered wall, limited-edition canvas prints, original large-scale paintings, and a vibrant window installation are all showcased.

"Spectra allows us to apply our artistic language to a functional setting in a way that's both immersive and emotionally resonant," says Martinich. 

"Seeing my gestural painting translated into carpet was a dream realised, where colour and movement become part of how people interact with a space."

Spectra is on view until July 20 at Rydges Melbourne. www.martinich.com.au

Total makeover for Melbourne city hotel

One of the best-located hotels in Melbourne has reopened after being given a complete makeover.

Rydges Melbourne is in the heart of the city’s theatre district only moments from Collins Street boutiques, Chinatown, Melbourne Central and the Bourke Street Mall.

The hotel's transformation includes a technology fitout that features seamless online check-in, in-room streaming services, and apartments that feature sweeping city views.

 


Among the upgrades are:

* 370 refurbed rooms across three accommodation styles: 310 king standard rooms, 35 suites and 25 apartments with a kitchenette, laundry, and separate lounge/dining spaces.

* All rooms feature Rydges DreamBeds

* The new tech tech provides seamless and connected experiences throughout the property. Guests are able to check-in online from their mobile device or self-service kiosks. In-room TVs offer casting, room service and more.

* The property has one of Melbourne’s largest conference and event offerings, including 11 newly designed meeting areas across two levels. The largest space was previously Bobby McGee’s and is now a showcase ballroom. Level two is home to the new Rooftop Terrace with space and views.

* There is a modern and interactive fitness studio with the latest in fitness technology.

 
* Bossley Bar & Restaurant, located on the ground floor of the hotel, showcases locally sourced ingredients from around Victoria.

Troy Cuthbertson, Group General Manager, Hotel Operations Rydges (big title Troy), said: "Rydges Melbourne has been meticulously transformed to be a flagship for the brand. The Rydges brand is uniquely Australian owned and operated which is reflected in the design.

"From the warm and welcoming styled rooms, suites and new apartments experience that rival the best views in Melbourne, to the state-of-the-art technology and world-class facilities and events spaces, we have created a property that features more on every level.

"Guest feedback has already been extremely positive and the interest in our new conference and event spaces is strong. We are truly excited to bring this experience to the Australian market.”

Throughout the hotel is a collection of art curated by interior stylist Janet Graham, which celebrates the styles of various local artists.

You can visit the hotel’s website or ring (03) 9662 0511). Standard room rates start at $255 per night, which sounds reasonable for city centre accommodation. One I aim to check out.