If you’re an art aficionado, the first thing you usually do after checking into your room is to go exploring museums and galleries of a new city.
However, sometimes you don’t have to go very far to enjoy the most exquisite art collections that a country has to offer.
There are numerous Australian hotels embellished with the finest artworks, or inspired by contemporary artists.
Here are just a few of my favourites to help inspire and guide you on planning your next trip.
1. The Schaller Studio, Bendigo
A tribute to renowned Australian artist Mark Schaller, the Schaller Studio features his original artwork in every room. However, there’s more – any true art aficionado will be delighted with an eight-metre mosaic displayed on the hotel’s exterior and scale sculptures embellishing the beautifully landscaped gardens. Even if you yourself aren’t an artist, you will feel inspired the moment you enter the hotel, which offers both contemporary comforts and the finest art collections. If you decide to give your artistic side a chance, you can sign up for an art class and let your creativity do the rest.
2. The Henry Jones Art Hotel, Hobart
Australia’s first dedicated art hotel is also the place where the boundaries between art, history and design disappear. The Henry Jones represents the mixture of the 19th century architecture, modern design, contemporary art and industrial heritage. The hotel site actually represents the restoration of one of the most successful companies in Australia in 1804. What was once an abandoned building of H. Jones and Co. IXL, now is a luxurious hotel transformed by award-winning architects. Art radiates in this unique environment of superb furniture design and architectural elements. Once you enter your room with hand-cut sandstone walls featuring artwork, you’ll be reluctant to leave.
3. The Larwill Studio, Melbourne
This boutique hotel near the city centre is inspired by the work of
“>Australian artist David Larwill
4. The Watson, Adelaide
Overlooking Adelaide Hills, the boutique Watson Hotel is inspired by the indigenous art of Tommy Watson. Not only will the hotel provide you with an authentic art-inspired experience, but it will also satisfy your cravings for luxury with its open-plan self-contained suites, art library, pool and large communal spaces decorated with the artist’s work. Additionally, if you need to get more of your art fix, you can go on an art tour or browse through the hotel’s art journals.
5. The Old Clare Hotel, Sydney
If you’re looking for unique and funky accommodation in Sydney, the Old Clare Hotel is just what you need. Located in Chippendale, a suburb where many art galleries and design studios have found their home, the Old Clare combines unique artistic aesthetics with its rich history. This luxurious boutique art hotel in Sydney consists of two buildings – the Clare Hotel Pub and the Carlton and United Breweries Administration Building, both of which are heritage-listed buildings. Whether you choose to stay in one of the luxurious suites, enjoy the rooftop pool or attend an event, you definitely won’t have to go far to find what you need.
