This designer boutique hotel is housed in a building that was once a prestige car showroom, first built in 1928. While the modern fit-out hits all the right notes, the Royce still carries an understated historical elegance, with a grand staircase, ornate ceilings and statement chandelier evoking a sense of theatrical drama in the lobby. Whether staying in the King Room or the Royce Suite, guests are assured five-star service every step of the way.
While it is a heritage-listed building that has classic charm, the team behind the hotel have put in the work so that it still feels current. In 2023, it unveiled a fresh look after two years of renovations, still paying homage to the aesthetics of the roaring '20s. Situated on St Kilda Road overlooking the Royal Botanic Gardens, the hotel houses 94 rooms and suites across six floors, many with expansive private terraces.
The Showroom Bar and Restaurant serves a seasonal menu with Australian produce for lunch, dinner and drinks, with an adjoining lounge adorned by the building's original vaulted ceiling. A European-style breakfast and brunch is also served in foliage-filled the Terrace café. The whole experience is curated to hark back to an era of refined glamour, encouraging visitors to revel in the elegance.
Time Out tip: If you can peek into the hotel's ballroom, you'll see a feature wall decorated with original Rolls Royce chrome grills.