Exploring Australia’s Most Stunning Design Hotels
Australia isn’t just about rugged outback adventures and postcard-perfect coastlines — it’s also home to some of the most forward-thinking and visually striking design hotels in the world. Whether nestled in the heart of a bustling city or hidden in remote natural landscapes, these hotels offer more than just a place to sleep — they’re immersive experiences shaped by architecture, art, and local culture.
Join us on a journey through some of Australia’s most iconic design hotels that will satisfy your wanderlust and aesthetic appetite in equal measure.
Jackalope Hotel.
Mornington Peninsula, Victoria
Set amid the rolling vineyards of the Mornington Peninsula, Jackalope is where cutting-edge design meets rural sophistication. This award-winning boutique hotel is wrapped in charred timber and zinc, with interiors bathed in moody lighting and contemporary art. The 30 suites overlook lush landscapes, and every corner feels like a gallery installation — from the surreal 7-meter-tall jackalope sculpture to the slick, black infinity pool. Add to that a top-tier winery and two refined restaurants Doot Doot Doot and Rare Hare, haute cocktail bar Flaggerdoot, and you have a design destination worth the detour.
Jackalope Hotel, 166 Balnarring Road, Merricks North VIC 3926
jackalopehotels.com
Paramount House Hotel.
Sydney, New South Wales
Housed in the former Paramount Pictures building in Surry Hills, this hotel blends old Hollywood charm with Aussie cool. Think exposed brick, copper piping, and terrazzo tiles paired with handcrafted furniture and lush greenery. Each room is uniquely styled, and the rooftop wellness space and café downstairs add a community vibe. Staying here feels like crashing at your most stylish friend’s inner-city apartment — if they also happened to own a cinema and a bakery.
Paramount House Hotel, 80 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010
paramounthousehotel.com
The Calile Hotel.
Brisbane, Queensland
Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley is home to The Calile, a pastel-hued oasis that feels more like Miami than the tropics of Queensland. The hotel’s curving archways, terrazzo finishes, and open-air breezeways are Instagram catnip — but this isn’t style over substance. Rooms are airy and elegant, and the poolside cabanas, Lobby Bar, Greek-inspired restaurant Hellenika, and boutique shopping arcade make it a self-contained world of luxury and design flair.
The Calile Hotel, 48 James Street, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
thecalilehotel.com
Hotel Hotel (Now Ovolo Nishi).
Canberra, ACT
Before it became part of the Ovolo family, Hotel Hotel was already a cult design favourite. Located in Canberra’s NewActon precinct, the building is a sustainable marvel, constructed with reclaimed timber, rammed earth walls, and concrete. Inside, it feels like an art film brought to life — sculptural staircases, locally made furniture, and a brooding yet warm atmosphere. Ovolo Nishi still honors that legacy, pairing the original design ethos with the brand’s playful, contemporary twist.
Ovolo Nishi, NewActon Precinct, 25 Edinburgh Ave Canberra ACT 2601
ovolohotels.com/ovolo/nishi/
The Old Clare Hotel.
Chippendale, Sydney
Nestled in the vibrant Chippendale district, The Old Clare Hotel is a testament to Sydney's rich history and contemporary flair. Housed in a former brewery, the hotel's interiors feature polished wooden floors, exposed brick walls, and bespoke furnishings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the rooftop pool, on-site dining at Automata, and a curated art collection that reflects the city's creative spirit.
The Old Clare Hotel, 1 Kensington St Chippendale NSW 2008
odehotels.com/the-old-clare-hotel
Ace Hotel Sydney.
Surry Hills, Sydney
Ace Hotel Sydney brings a touch of West Coast cool to the heart of Surry Hills. The hotel's design is a fusion of mid-century modern and industrial aesthetics, featuring terrazzo floors, custom furniture, and vibrant artworks. With its lively lobby, restaurants Kiln and Loam, rooftop bar, and proximity to local cafes and galleries, Ace Hotel offers a dynamic urban retreat.
Ace Hotel, 47-53 Wentworth Ave, Sydney NSW 2000
acehotel.com/sydney
Melbourne Place.
Melbourne CBD, Victoria
Recently featured on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Hot List, Melbourne Place is a striking addition to the city's design scene. Designed by Kennedy Nolan, the hotel combines brutalist architecture with luxurious velvet interiors, creating a bold and sophisticated environment. Enjoy nostalgic Mediterranean flavours at Mid Air, or favours of Portugal and Spain at Marmello. Its central location offers easy access to Melbourne's CBD shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
Melbourne Place, 130 Russell Street,Melbourne, 3000 VIC
melbourneplace.com.au
Longitude 131°.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory
For a unique outback experience, Longitude 131° offers luxury tented pavilions with unparalleled views of Uluru. The design seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape, featuring earthy tones, indigenous art, and sustainable materials. Guests can partake in guided walks, stargazing, and dine under the stars at Table 131°, immersing themselves in the spiritual heart of Australia.
Longitude 131°, Yulara Drive, Yulara NT 0872
longitude131.com.au
The Standard X.
Melbourne, Victoria
The StandardX, Melbourne is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Fitzroy, one of Melbourne, Australia’s most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods. Set amidst vintage stores, independent restaurants, hidden bars and art galleries, this boutique hotel is as creative and unique as its surroundings. Dine at BANG, a restaurant where Thai flavours take center stage, or relax at The Roof, a urban rooftop oasis exclusively for hotel guests.
Standard X, 62 Rose St., Fitzroy VIC 3065
standardx.com/melbourne
MACq 01 Hotel.
Hobart, Tasmania
MACq 01 Hotel offers a storytelling experience through its design, with each room inspired by a different Tasmanian character or legend. The hotel's interiors feature rich textures, local artworks, and bespoke furnishings, creating a unique and immersive environment. Dine at The Old Wharf restaurant, or sip a cocktail at The Story Bar. Located on Hobart's waterfront, guests have easy access to local attractions and dining options.
MACq 01, 18 Hunter St, Hobart TAS 7000
macq01.com.au
Sequoia Lodge.
Adelaide Hills, South Australia
Sequoia Lodge offers a luxurious and tranquil escape in the Adelaide Hills. The lodge's design focuses on sustainability, with eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems. Guests can relax in private villas with panoramic views, enjoy gourmet dining, and explore the surrounding vineyards and nature trails.
Sequoia Lodge, 1 Mawson Drive, Crafers SA 5152
sequoialodge.com.au
Australia’s best design hotels are more than just places to stay — they’re places to feel. Whether you’re into urban minimalism, earthy textures, or whimsical luxury, there’s a slice of curated beauty waiting for you to discover. These hotels invite you to slow down, look around, and fall in love with the details — one handcrafted light fixture or concrete wall at a time.
Know a great place that we’ve missed? We’d love to learn about it!