Melbourne Marriott Hotel has introduced its new-look lobby following a AU$1.1 million refurbishment, the first stage of a broader transformation underway at the hotel.

The refreshed space includes the addition of the new M Bar as well as an M Club lounge – one of the first in Australia.

Melbourne Marriott Hotel’s General Manager, Gaurav Wattal, praised the work by the interior design team at One Design Office (ODO).

“They’ve been able to reimagine the space to create a modern and inviting atmosphere that flows throughout the entrance, lounge and bar areas, no matter what time of day or night guests arrive or wish to enjoy our heartfelt service,” he said.

“The updated colour palette of moody tone-on-tone grey and brown hues perfectly complements the ambient lighting and sophisticated timber and marble textures featured in the bar and lounge fit-out.

“The tone of this space better reflects the overall Melbourne Marriott Hotel experience for both guests staying in-house, as well as locals who adopt it as their ‘go-to’ when living, working or playing in and around the hotel vicinity.”

Open to Platinum, Titanium, and Ambassador Elite Marriott Bonvoy members and guests who stay on executive floors, the M Club provides a relaxed space for social or business meetings, with charging points, complimentary wi-fi, computer kiosk and printer available.

“Our M Club is an exclusive sanctuary to relax, unwind, refuel or tap away on the laptop – depending on what our guests’ needs might be,” Wattal said.

M Club, Melbourne Marriott Hotel

“It feels like a homely retreat and offers a mix of communal tables, comfy sofas, and corner nooks to suit guests feeling sociable or wanting a quiet spot to read and chill out.

“It’s important for modern travellers to be able to work from anywhere, so it was critical to design a space where guests can connect seamlessly through our high speed wi-fi and USB points.”

Open from 6am to 10pm, the M Club serves up complimentary breakfast, all-day nibbles and non-alcoholic beverages during the day, while canapes and alcoholic beverages including beer and wine are available in the evening.

Over at the M Bar, patrons can choose from cocktails, mocktails, a range of 40 top-shelf whiskeys, and more than 70 wines.

“We’re excited to offer three signature cocktails, specially created by craft distillery neighbour Little Lon, whose names – The Exhibitionist, Lonsdale Lover and M for Magic – were inspired by our locale,” said Wattal.

“These are all complemented with a tasty bar menu developed by our new head chef Swami Nandan and designed to be eaten with one hand, while immersed in deep conversation.”

The 188-room Melbourne Marriott Hotel recently marked its 21st year in business, and continues to remain popular with guests, according to Wattal.

“Melbourne Marriott Hotel was one of the first world-class hotels to open in this cosmopolitan city and we’ve worked hard to consistently offer a premium experience and exceptional service for more than two decades that keeps our guests coming back again and again,” he said.