Benchtops and bar fronts at W Hotel Brisbane are inspired by the shapes of nearby clifftops.
It's a nickname used with a lot of affection, but some derision for the Queensland capital, be it by Queenslanders or interstaters. But the new W Hotel Brisbane has taken that moniker, "BrisVegas", as a style statement and owned it, with a multi-coloured, unashamedly glitzy, glam and playful identity.
Warning: this mash-up of influences is not for minimalists. The W Hotel Brisbane, marking the return of the W brand to Australia, has a cacophony of elements designed to reflect the history of the Brisbane River, elements of Queensland's wildlife, landscapes, Indigenous culture and more.
Says Bruce Ryde, vice-president for luxury brands and brand marketing, Marriott International Asia-Pacific. "Brisbane's bustling riverbank is a … perfect match for W Hotels' bold design and playful, contemporary approach to luxury."
The W Hotel Brisbane has taken a 'bold design and playful, contemporary approach to luxury'.Credit: Ralf Tooten
Nic Graham & Associates interior designers were given a theme of "A River Dreaming", to bring the riot of motifs together, with elements such as a staircase of timber river reeds leading guests from the front door to the Welcome Desk and the Living Room – the latter being the W brand's name for a lobby. This space is designed in pools of colour via bespoke rugs and wall finishes reflecting sub-tropical vegetation. Benchtops and bar fronts are inspired by the shapes of nearby clifftops and there's a border of grass to bring home the interpretation of nature.
"Earth tones, sedimentary layers, frayed edges and raw beauty associated with the Australian outback" include bold and colourful works from Australian artists such as John Nicholson, Lucas Grogan and Reko Rennie.
Practically, that all goes into 312 guestrooms including 32 suites with a white wall inspired by VJ wall panels found on traditional Queenslander homes and there's a "10-gallon drum outback bath experience".
Restaurant Three Blue Ducks, with a paddock-to-plate ethos, is an import of the Sydney and Byron Bay eatery and there are two bars, including a rooftop bar that, as well as hosting DJs and pool parties, will, of course, host barbecues.
From $350 a room a night. See wbrisbane.com
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