Marriott International will open its first Australian new-build hotel in 20 years in Docklands following the Victorian Government’s approval of Capital Alliance’s mixed-use scheme this week.
Designed by DKO Architecture, the Melbourne developer’s project will deliver 200 premium hotel rooms as well as 110 contemporary residences across 17-level dual towers above the newly rebranded District Docklands, formerly AsheMorgan’s Harbour Town Shopping Centre.
At its heart will also be another first for Melbourne – a public infinity pool on the Marriott rooftop complemented by world-class bar and dining facilities, all overlooking the CBD.
The contemporary apartments aimed at owner occupiers will launch later this year, with the entire project to deliver 100 hotel jobs to Melbourne as well as 500 direct and indirect construction and development jobs when works start in mid-2018.
Capital Alliance managing director and founder, Mohan Du, said he expected apartments in the $200 million project to attract strong interest due to their shared services and proximity to the five-star hotel and District Docklands, which is currently undergoing a $150 million upgrade.
“This will deliver the first contemporary Marriott to Melbourne and its rooftop infinity pool will give the city an experience it has never seen before – akin to the renowned pool bars and lounges of New York City,” he said.
“Marriott is the world’s largest hospitality company and the opportunity it sees in Melbourne and Docklands is a huge compliment to our city. We are very excited to get started and deliver on our original vision.
“This project will be a true destination in Melbourne and something special that will add to the city’s tourism potential.”
The hotel will operate under Marriott International’s flagship Marriott Hotels & Resorts brand and become a key part of the integrated lifestyle precinct being developed as part of District Docklands’ major renewal.
James Doolan, Regional Vice President Hotel Development for Marriott International, said he was delighted with the progress achieved by Capital Alliance.
“We are excited to bring our flagship Marriott Hotels & Resorts brand to Docklands as part of this visionary, mixed-use project. The hotel will be a flagship in Australia and a true example of the Marriott brand’s sophisticated style and innovative functionality. We’re grateful for Capital Alliance’s support.”
The new Marriott hotel and apartment project will be Capital Alliance’s second mixed-use development in Docklands, with the five star M Docklands project completed in February 2016. The project includes 186 apartments and 87 hotel rooms at Docklands’ first five star hotel, Peppers.