A Hotel that is a Home away from Home.
There are many hotels that are leveraging off this concept as their point of differentiation in the
market. However, it takes a certain level, style, design and execution to pull this off and I believe
United Places has successfully done so. Especially as this Hotel has just opened its doors and
seamlessly integrated something special into the neighbourhood. Hidden quietly and blended
within the footpath/shopping strip of some well known great dining spots located in the heart of
prestigious Domain Road of South Yarra. In fact the hotel proudly resides above the latest
addition chef hatted restaurant, Matilda’s, which was also part of the new hotel development. An
integrated concept that the owner had in mind to feed the guests with a stunning chef menu for
room service, dining in the restaurant with charge back service and a 3 course crafted
scrumptious breakfast served in your room.
The entrance is discreet, no formal reception and staff appear out of no-where to warmly greet
you and check you in by the latest technology. With strong lines of concrete walls with dark tones
that gives a sophisticated and distinct sexiness to the overall feeling as you walk in.
Our stay was purposeful as we had a family event immediately after school pick up so we wanted
the convenience and comfort of being at home but the services of a lush Hotel. As we proceeded
to our 2 bedroom executive suite, a very stylish well considered design led by Sue Carr, we
immediately focus to our black marble bath sitting in the main bedroom overlooking the Botanical
Gardens. Every piece of furniture curated were designer in particular the quilted sofa from
Patricia Urquiola for Moroso and the attention to detail was not missed. Amply supported with
Heated flooring, hand troweled walls, velvet drapery, hotel perks of fluffy ‘Loom’ towels, Le Labo
bath and body products and your United Places Tote. The kitchenette offering necessary
equipment and again curated with the local ceramic artist for plate ware. We were greeted with a
voluminous bowl of enormous fresh and vibrant strawberries, welcoming letter and down turn
service offering a ceremony of “tea time” for bedtime ritual.
Staff remained discreet at all times but every time you left and arrived, they would appear and
were mindful to ensure we were satisfied guests.
The Hotel itself offers 9 one bedroom and 3 two bedroom suites. I would suggest this is a Hotel
that knows what it wants to be; a sophisticated player in an affluent area of South Yarra. Catering
to locals, corporates and the odd rock star who wants privacy, luxury and convenience of a great
location to dine, drink and walk/run the popular ‘Tan’ around the Botanical Gardens but still only
brief stroll 2kms away from Melbourne CBD.
I loved this stay and definitely would do this again. Bring on the family events!
