Rydges Melbourne undergoes a massive transformation

It has been a (very) long time coming, but this Aussie hotel has finally been transformed with its new look and is already a huge hit among guests.

Rydges Melbourne has undergone a massive revamp, with the hotel now boasting a completely new look and vibe. Picture: News.com.au

It has been a long time coming, but Rydges Melbourne has finally been given a much-needed makeover.

If you live in the city or often visit the bustling theatre district on Exhibition Street, you would have noticed a very different-looking Rydges hotel.

Formerly the Bryson Centre, which housed Hotel Melbourne, it’s now a more modern and comprehensive version with the 19,400 sqm heritage-listed property boasting a whole new look and feel that compliments its vibrant surroundings.

Rydges Melbourne has undergone a massive revamp, with the hotel now boasting a completely new look and vibe.

Its prime location means it’s minutes away from Collins Street boutiques, Bourke Street Mall, Chinatown and of course, a bunch of top-notch restaurants and cafes.

“The interiors of the property have been completely transformed while retaining its Modernist exterior,” general manager Lee Davey told news.com.au.

“The interior and social spaces capitalise on the abundance of natural light with fresh, light timber walls, natural stone floors and dramatic tapering ceilings.”

Apart from its affordable rooms (starting from $255 per night), popular DreamBeds in each of the 370 revamped rooms and chic restaurant, Bossley, it’s one of very few hotels in the country to offer guests a unique mobile check-in/out experience.

Inside the Bossley Restaurant and Bar.

Basically, you don’t need to line up to check in, all you need is your reservation details and you can do it yourself, in minutes, at the hotel’s self-serve kiosks.

Once you enter the required details, the machine will spit out your room keys, and you’re on your way.

“Our new online check-in process has been an absolute game-changer and the uptake has been overwhelming and incredibly positive,” Mr Davey said.

“We invested a lot of time into understanding what our guest want and ensuring that the journey to arrival and departure is seamless, quick and easy – and our staff are now able to give a warm, friendly Rydges welcome and talk about Melbourne when our guests arrive.”

Mr Davey said more than 80 per cent of guests are already using the service. He also said, since officially opening a month ago, feedback from guests has been positive.

“They love the detail that has gone into every element of the hotel and we are thrilled to see such strong interest in our new conference and event spaces,” he told news.com.au

“It fills us with genuine excitement to introduce this exceptional experience to the Australian market.”

It has self-serve kiosks to check in and out, meaning you don’t have to wait in long lines.

It’s all done via your mobile and then at the hotel’s kiosk and takes just minutes.

During the 18 month renovation, tradies made a surprising discovery.

As the flooring was stripped back for the ballroom upgrade, underneath lay the structure of auditorium sloped seating from the early 1970s which once seated 600 people.

Today, the space boasts soaring seven-metre-high ceilings as well as housing a x7m HD LED screen.

It also boasts one of Melbourne’s largest conference and event destinations.

“We can also now boast one of Melbourne’s largest conference and event destinations, featuring 11 newly created spaces across an expansive 1500 sqm on two levels,” Mr Davey said.

“The renovation also includes the hotel’s newest signature dining space, Bossley Bar & Restaurant, an effortlessly chic dining experience providing guests with a locally inspired menu,” he added.

Inside the Deluxe Corner King room which costs from $315 per night.

This is the kitchen and dining area. The colours and style give off a warm and welcoming vibe.

Mr Davey said the hotel’s rooms are now equipped with smart TVs that offer various features, including casting capabilities for personal entertainment and access to room service.

And better yet — they’re affordable, with its Deluxe Corner King room already proving to be a big hit.

And of course the lush tub in the separate bedroom.

A closer look. It also faces the TV on the wall and views of the city’s skyline.

The spacious room features a mini kitchen, living area and separate bedroom where you will also find a tub — and at just $315 per night, it’s no surprise it’s already proving popular.

“Our Corner King Rooms and top floor apartments, including the Executive Apartment, also offer some of the best views of Melbourne, including iconic landmarks like Her Majesty’s Theatre, Chinatown and St Patrick’s Cathedral,” Mr Davey said.

The all-new rooftop pool.

And to top it off, the hotel now features a state-of-the-art gym, including modified crossfit workouts, and other training styles to suit all needs.

Guests can also enjoy the rooftop pool which has also been revamped, as well as a rooftop bar that boasts city views.

The gym has some pretty high-tech equipment.

Given its prime location, guests can also venture out and explore the city.

“As we’re situated right in the heart of Melbourne’s Theatre district, and across the road from Chinatown, there’s plenty for guests to do and see,” Mr Davey said.

“Our neighbouring theatres come alive every evening, creating a unique and exciting atmosphere.

It’s located in the heart of the bustling theatre district. Picture: Collins Street Precinct

And of course … shopping. Picture: Collins Street Precinct

“We’re also moments from exclusive Collins Street boutiques and Bourke Street Mall, so shopping for our guests is always on the cards.”

Collins Street Precinct Group president, Luke Harris, said while the CBD was the hardest hit by the pandemic, the increase in foot traffic year-on-year is slowly getting back to 2019 numbers.

“We are seeing our restaurants and bars busy with diners on weekdays and weekends alike, we’ve had the pleasure of hosting some fantastic smash-hit shows at the Regent Theatre, with more to come throughout this year and next,” he told news.com.au.

“Our international fashion houses and local brands are seeing strong sales across the board, and we have seen an increase in visitation from our office workers, domestic travellers and of course, international visitors.”

This writer was a guest of Rydes Melbourne.