Pro-invest Group and IHG Hotels and Resorts have opened Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders this week (Aug 21), the brand’s first in Victoria.
The unveiling of the hotel on Flinders Lane debuts the global Hotel Indigo brand in Melbourne thanks to Pro-invest Group’s acquisition of the property, formerly operating as a Holiday Inn, and their sweeping AU$20 million refurbishment.
“Our multi-million-dollar investment has successfully transformed this exceptional property to introduce Hotel Indigo’s vibrant spirit to Melbourne,” said Pro-invest Group CEO Asia Pacific, Jan Smits.
“With the dynamic Flinders Lane setting, creative interiors and our welcoming team lead by General Manager, Joseph Simmons, we believe Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders will captivate and inspire curious guests looking to enjoy the city in new ways.”
Now a creatively curated lifestyle boutique hotel, the 216-room property’s exciting reinvention has been inspired by the history and colourful legends of its Flinders Lane neighbourhood, primarily internationally acclaimed fashion photographer Helmut Newton whose original studio was nearby.
With Newton’s work as muse, fashion, art and runway combine to invite guests into an enclave of collected and commissioned photographic artwork, starting with a dramatic lobby-gallery space and lounge – there’s even a specially designed selfie booth for guests to capture their own Newton-esque memory.
Guests won’t need to wander far to discover the city’s renowned dining, with the opening of new streetside Spanish taperia, bar and restaurant BESO housed within Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders.
Helmed by Ana Cortes Garcia, a Spaniard with vast international experience and a Melbourne Chef’s Hat accolade, diners will be challenged by contemporary twists on traditional Spanish tapas. Local hospitality industry stalwart, Guy Holder, directs the offering, including a vibrant list of Victorian and Spanish wines.
Uncovering more of the city’s laneway culture of street art, hidden cafés, bars, boutiques and galleries starts right from the hotel’s doorstep on Flinders Lane, while exploring the neighbourhood further will reveal major entertainment, sport and cultural attractions. Etihad Stadium, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre and Southbank precinct are an easy walk – and Southern Cross Station is within arms-reach for those travelling further afield.
“We are so pleased to see our franchise partnership with Pro-invest Group go from strength to strength with the opening of Hotel Indigo Melbourne on Flinders,” said IHG Hotels and Resorts Managing Director – Australasia and Pacific, Matt Tripolone.
“It continues the growth we’ve had together across the IHG portfolio and the huge momentum behind the Hotel Indigo brand in Australasia and around the world.”
With 273 open or pipeline hotels globally, Hotel Indigo is one of the world’s leading boutique premium brands that provide a gateway to discover some of the most inspiring cities.
Each Hotel Indigo draws inspiration from the local neighbourhood, culture and popular trends in food, drink and design to create a warm and vibrant atmosphere.