United Places

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!

---