"Set the scene for us. The city’s most anticipated opening. From the outside, it’s all geometric white brick and concrete blocks; inside, the first thing that hits guests coming in from the glaring sub-tropical sun is the cool of the lobby—in both senses—from the marble of the check-in counter to the young staff wearing linen uniforms designed by hip Aussie brand Bassike. What's the story behind it? Brother owners Cal and Michael Malouf are the developers behind the James Street district, and have transformed it from a light industrial zone into a must-visit shopping and dining destination. The hotel is named after their great grandfather who came to Australia in 1892 and created his own retail empire in Brisbane. What can we expect in our room? A gorgeous mash-up of materials: a raw concrete ceiling, leather day bed, marble table and cork-lined walls. All the honey-hued timber joinery is bespoke and brass light fittings add a dash of glamour. Even the smallest Essential rooms are a decent size; some, such as Poolside, have a generous, curved balcony overlooking the action below. How about the food and drink? Greek restaurant Hellenika (the original is on the Gold Coast) is all pale timber, marble and brass light fittings. But the best bit is that it serves poolside, both on its own terrace and to the cabanas. The menu is full of classics—flaky spanakopita, aubergine moussaka, chicken souvlaki—which somehow taste much cleaner and fresher than typical taverna fare. For breakfast, try The Onassis: streaky bacon, loukanika (Greek sausages), olive-oil fried eggs, fresh tomato, a lamb cutlet, and toast. Anything to say about the service? Staff are crisp and efficient, like their uniforms. Who comes here? Fortitude Valley ladies who like to shop. All the best local fashion brands—Dion Lee, Camilla & Marc, Bassike—are to be found at the base of the hotel. What’s the neighborhood scene like? The James Street precinct is the epicenter of Brisbane cool and there are around 130 boutiques, restaurants and bars in the immediate vicinity. The lively lobby bar is accessible from the street, making it the go-to for shopped-out locals in need of a spritz-fix. Anything else we should know? The 30-meter-pool is lined with palm trees and smart cabanas. The gym and spa are both designed with the same extreme attention to detail as the rest of the hotel. No fuss, but it’s far from basic. Is it worth it—and why? Among a raft of Brisbane hotel openings, this one stands out for its contemporary architecture and considered design." - Stephen Todd
