In the heart of Melbourne's vibrant inner-city suburb, Richmond, a new star is rising on the eclectic horizon – The Motley Hotel.
Step into the vibrant heart of Richmond and uncover the eclectic charm of The Motley Hotel, a bohemian haven that seamlessly marries history with modern flair.
Our Friday night escape promised an unforgettable experience in Melbourne’s latest boutique gem. Nestled on Bridge Road, The Motley Hotel welcomed us with its promise to ‘Stay Different’ and from the moment we crossed the threshold, it delivered on that pledge.
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At first glance, The Motley Hotel’s entrance on Bridge Road appears deceptively simple blending seamlessly with the eclectic streetscape of Richmond. Unlike ostentatious displays, this boutique gem plays its cards close to the chest, and from the street, while modern and elegant, the narrow, glass-fronted building hints gives away only the smallest hint of the captivating world inside – all perfectly executed by visionary Jackson Clements Burrows architects.
Once we stepped into the double-height entrance of The Motley, the atmosphere transformed into a captivating wonderland of patterns, metallic flourishes, and modern artwork that paid homage to Melbourne’s chic and current personality. Your eyes are immediately drawn to the display of captivating fashion portraits lining the wall, courtesy of renowned fine-art photographer Mohammadreza Rezania.
This is merely the beginning though, as the entire property is a small art gallery within a hotel, boasting murals, artwork, and textiles that reflect Melbourne’s diverse and artistic community. Even the elevator was a work of art!
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With 80 rooms across eight levels, The Motley caters to every preference. Choose from Standard, Deluxe, Courtyard, or City View options, all featuring King beds. For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the spacious one-bedroom suite offers a separate living area and bedroom. The views, whether of the bustling urban streets or Melbourne’s CBD skyline, are a treat for the eyes.
Because The Motley is all about being bold and beautiful, there’s also The Motley’s Heritage Rooms, each a unique symphony of art and luxury. The Tiger Room invites you to unleash your wild side amidst intricate tiger-themed artwork and untamed elegance, while Mary’s Room pays homage to Ms. Mary Parker, exuding timeless sophistication with captivating artworks and bone inlay furniture. Lastly, there’s the Texture Room, a realm of tactile bliss celebrating strong women through art, whimsical fabrics, and contemporary design.
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Our choice for the night, the Motley Balcony Suite, unfolded as a romantic retreat with a unique blend of luxury and artistic expression. The room, adorned with modern amenities (hello smart TV and rain shower head!) and thoughtful details, adorned with Mr. Smith handwash and moisturiser, echoed the Motley’s commitment to diversity. The panoramic views from our window, overlooking the bustling Bridge Road, set the stage for a night filled with the energy of Richmond’s vibrant streets. So chic!
Before settling into our room, we ventured into Threads, the rooftop bar with spectacular views across Richmond, Melbourne’s city skyline, and the Dandenong Ranges. Expert mixologists crafted cocktails and refreshing summer drinks graced the menu, setting the scene for an intimate afternoon basking in the sun. The vibrant energy of the city below, combined with the eclectic and absolutely stunning decor, made Threads a fitting beginning to our Friday night escapade.
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Once the sun set, we ventured into Ms. Parker, the on-site cafe, wine bar, and restaurant. Led by Chef Paul Millist, the restaurant showcases the best of local produce with a medley of Middle Eastern, Asian, and modern Australian influences. The menu is divided into smaller plates for sharing and more substantial meals. We devoured the Coal Roasted Wild Barramundi fillet, Southern farms Lamb shank and thick cut steakhouse chips for our mains, before indulging in the Pina Colada panna cotta and the mouth watering hot Valrhona molten chocolate pudding. Sensational.
Alongside the incredible food and the brilliant and attentive staff, the vibrant atmosphere, lined with quirky modern art and a chill-out dance soundtrack, provided the perfect setting and is a nod to tradition, a wink at creativity, and a celebration of The Motley’s fabric and style. The colourful, comfy cushions lining the booths were also welcomed touch, allowing you to really sink into the indulgence of the evening.
What we really loved was the commitment to a separate identity for Ms. Parker, ensuring that it remains a vibrant space for guests and non-guests alike. The eclectic dining destination can be entered directly from the street, beckoning passers-by in with bright neons and patterned with diverse textures and flavours. It’s also a wine bar too, with some incredible labels available for purchase.
Armed with a bottle of wine, complimentary bathrobes and the lingering echoes of a delectable evening, our stay at The Motley on a Friday night was nothing short of enchanting. The seamless blend of artistic expression, culinary delights, and the bohemian spirit of Richmond made it a unique and memorable experience. As we retired to our Motley Suite, we felt the heartbeat of Melbourne’s past and present, wrapped in the luxurious embrace of very romantic and very artistic The Motley Hotel.
The verdict? The perfect night of artistic romance for those wanting to stay different.
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The Motley Hotel earns its stripes, not just for its vibrant design and artistic homage but for the adventurous dining experience it offers. The clash of canvas and modern art, friendly staff, and a commitment to locally sourced produce make it a luxurious haven. With the Heritage Rooms now open, The Motley is poised to become a sought-after destination for tourists and locals seeking a special night or weekend treat. Conveniently located (especially if attending an event at the MCG, Rod Laver or AAMI Park), boldly designed, and boasting a fantastic on-site dining experience, The Motley Hotel is indeed where Melbourne’s past meets present in bohemian splendour.
Experience the Bohemian Romance of The Motley Hotel. Book your stay here.
