Element by Westin, part of Marriott International, opened Element Melbourne Richmond in June, 2019. The hotel marks the debut of the Element brand in Australia and with it, the brand’s signature eco-conscious ethos and commitment to helping healthy, active guests maintain a balanced lifestyle while travelling.
Element is a recognised industry leader in the longer-stay eco space – and it’s easy to see why. It’s the first of its kind in Australia and the hotel is a true gem – not just in location, but also in its offerings, services and facilities.
Element Melbourne Richmond is situated in the new Botanicca Corporate Park on the banks of the Yarra River, six kilometres from Melbourne’s city centre. Situated moments from the buzzing dining and shopping precinct in Richmond’s Swan Street and a long walk – or short drive – from the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Victorian Arts Centre. Element is a good option for both extended-stay guests, as well as travellers in town for just a few days.
My son and I recently enjoyed a weekend staycation at Element and I’m not being facetious when I say he shed a couple of tears when it came time to leave.
Our room, the balcony king room, was spacious, had every thing we could have possibly needed – including a stunning spa bath on our private balcony. The room was ideal for play, rest and relaxation and the experience was only elevated by what Element offered beyond the room. Outdoor igloos for sundowner drinks, ping pong tables for a hit after breakfast and complimentary bikes for a Sunday morning stroll along the Yarra River.
All aspects of the property are designed to provide guests with a place to unwind and recharge, no matter if travelling for business or leisure, or for a short trip or extended stay. Designed by award-winning Melbourne architects, Rothelowman, a curved façade reflects the winding Yarra River, while tones inspired by the Australian flora sit throughout all interior spaces, connecting guests with the locale.
Oversized windows provide an abundance of natural light, and eco-conscious touches such as energy-saving LED lighting, CO2 sensors monitoring air quality and water-saving taps and fixtures, play into the brand’s philosophy.
Each of the 163 guest rooms and five deluxe balcony king rooms include thoughtful touches like extra space, natural light, spa-inspired bathrooms, the signature Heavenly Bed (and let me tell you, heavenly it is) and high-speed wi-fi. A select number of rooms also feature energy-efficient kitchenettes, ideal for guests planning a longer stay, or those travelling in larger groups.
An innovative, multifunctional dining space provides a home away from home for guests. And make myself home I did. An iced long black over the morning papers kicked started my Saturday. The space transforms daily from the location for the brand’s signature complimentary rise breakfast, offering health-focused options like a chef-made omelette, a fresh fruit and yoghurt station and locally-supplied coffee and tea, to Mint Lane Restaurant & Bar for lunch and dinner, serving seasonal modern Australian fare using fresh local ingredients.
Element also offer an ‘evening relax reception’ four days a week, which includes complimentary local beers and wines and small bites, while the 24/7 restore grab-and-go pantry is available for guests to purchase snacks and food items to prepare in their rooms, as well as everyday essentials. And what a genius idea the restore pantry is. Sometimes you don’t want Pringles and a Coke from a mini-bar (in actual fact, I’ve never wanted either). But a lemon, lime and mint kombucha with a side of ice cream? That I want, and could get, anytime I liked.
Additional amenities at Element Melbourne Richmond include the 24/7 motion fitness centre, fitted with the latest Technogym equipment offering yoga classes, as well as the complimentary bikes-to-borrow program that allows guests to take their workout outdoors. Handily, bike paths that connect to Melbourne’s CBD are located nearby. The hotel is also pet friendly, offering pet beds, toys and even a dog-friendly mini bar, meaning guests can travel with all of their loved ones.
Oscar and I couldn’t have loved our time at Element more; so much so, we’ve already planned our next trip back.
Summer staycation, we’re coming for you.
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit elementmelbournerichmond.com.
