While trendy character-driven hotels like the recently opened Quincy Hotel and the luxurious 1 Hotel Melbourne are generally considered more aspirational stays than anything with “apartment” in the name, it’d be foolish to write Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne on Flinders off as a function-over-form, long-stay option.
It’s easily one of the most comfortable, and perfectly located, properties I’ve stayed at in Melbourne.
This isn’t just due to its cushy location a stone’s throw from the culinary capital of Flinders Lane, but it’s authentic New York-style loft rooms, which are located in a separate part from the main hotel in a small warehouse conversion. They could easily be pitched as a “secret” for savvy travellers looking for somewhere to stay in Melbourne that’s both central and premium (without the price tag that more “boutique-minded” hotels are charging lately).
Location
It’s not exactly the heart of Flinders, but this particular Adina Apartment property is positioned on the other side of Swanston. You’ll need to walk five-or-so minutes down Flinders Lane to hit the narrow strip’s busy side, with the hotel’s small collection of 6 warehouse-style apartments located up a narrow staircase off Malthouse Lane.
The main hotel has 59 apartments that look and sound like what you’d expect from an Adina Apartment property – large, premium and comfortable. These loft rooms, however, are more design-forward and do genuinely feel like artsy-minded lofts – perfectly aligned with Melbourne’s creative character.
Design
The loft rooms are much more visually engaging than you’d get from your standard apartment hotel. And it’s incredible just how much colour does make a difference, especially when it’s so well-planned, like the blues and reds that are spread across this space. From a patterned rug under the bed, to a gorgeous blue splashback for the wall-to-wall shower, the design is simple and very effective.
That said, the creaky entrance and narrow staircase that lead up to the loft rooms can feel a bit cramped. The hallways as well. Though the main point working against these rooms is that you’ll have to annoyingly drag your suitcase up the stairs if you’re packing heavy. And for long-term guests, that’s pretty much a given.
Rooms
My One Bedroom Loft Apartment is around 50 square meters spread across three primary spaces. There’s a large circular table as soon as I walk in, and the open kitchen looks like an expensive day out at IKEA. There’s ample space to organise a longer staycation here, so I’d imagine these are quite popular amongst people settling in for a week or two.
The surrounding dining options are endless and hit all budgets, but it’s nice to have a large, comfortable kitchen that doesn’t feel overly sanitised and actually has a bit of character. Colourful designer appliances help greatly, like a Smeg coffee machine and full-sized, matte black fridge.
The lounge area faces a large wall-hung TV, underneath which there’s a vinyl player with a few jazz records scattered around. I throw one on and unpack. I’m only in Melbourne for two nights, to see Rufus Du Sol play Rod Laver Arena, so I only have a backpack that takes no more than 2 minutes to declutter. Having the crackle of vintage jazz in the background makes everything just seem a bit more relaxing.
Though the hollow hallways and creaky stairs contrast against the room’s high-polish modernity, this warehouse conversion is a job done exceptionally well. I’m sure Ace Hotel has designs on making its way down to Melbourne one day, but it’ll be competing with his (very affordable) art and music-forward stay.
The bedroom and en-suite bathroom are also generous in size, with a plush bed that’s super welcoming after a big night out. But that’s about it. Adina properties get by just fine on their simplicity.
Food, Drink & Amenities
Aside from a moderately-sized 24-hour gym, there’s really nothing else this apartment hotel has to offer. There’s nothing else this apartment hotel needs to offer, though. Breakfast is a matter of hopping on over to MoVida in the morning or walking a bit further to The Grain Store. Dinner? Take your pick, but if you really want to stick with the New York vibe, then rock up to Gimlet, grab a seat at The Counter and watch the kitchen come to life.
Each apartment has a washer and dryer; the lofts are no exception. But that’s such a mandatory part of the value that my eyes just glossed over them when I was exploring the room. They are modern, clean appliances, which is more than you’d get at any lesser apartment hotel nearby.
That said, there’s a stylish little bar cart that’s neatly stocked with bottled cocktails, and the mini-bar is reasonably priced with all the standard snacks. I appreciate the fact that they’re showcasing local Melbourne chocolate as well, given there’s some really delicious blocks around the city.
Service
The hotel’s main lobby, located off Flinders Street, is a well of calm when it’s empty. Minimal with a few art pieces, friendly and fast service, and a quick, painless check-in.
Value
Expect to pay around $290-$320 a night for a stay here. All hotels are getting alarmingly expensive, but it’s nice to see Adina hasn’t hiked up too much. They could easily have done so, given the location and the value of these few loft-style rooms.
FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Adina Apartment Hotel Flinders Lane
Address: 88 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Contact: (03) 8663 0000
Chris Singh stayed as a guest of Adina Apartment Hotel Flinders Lane and TFE Hotels.
