Levantine Hill Estate has received council approval for a $20-million, Fender Katsalidis-designed hotel to be built on its estate.
Fender Katsalidis previously designed the $30-million avant-garde winery, restaurant and function space for Levantine Hill Estate completed in 2021, drawing its “bucolic” character from the scenes of the Yarra Valley.
Fender Katsalidis director Karl Fender was since engaged to design the 2900-square-metre, 33-room boutique accommodation, with earth works now expected to start early 2023.
Stage one of the hotel will complement the existing cellar door restaurant and wine production facility, while plans for a second, 47-room hotel will be submitted for approval mid-2023.
The accommodation ventures are intended to respond to untapped demand for additional premium accomodation in the Yarra Valley, to cater for weddings, conferences and trade events.
The boutique 33-key hotel will be located a short walk from the existing buildings and connected by a village green
Image: Fender Katsalidis
Fender said the hotel design addresses the challenge of sensitive integration, employing a linear form that reduces its visual impact while capitalising on views.
“There was a conscious decision to create a soft, complementary architecture to the two distinctive buildings already completed,” said Fender. “The design is informed by the functions of the building and responds to its placement in the landscape.”
The two-storey structure will incorporate materials used in the existing cellar door building, including silver top ash and exposed concrete finishes. “The raw, natural elements and finishes will weather naturally and patina elegantly with age in harmony with the environment,” Fender added.
Each guest room will features its now circular spa baths and private balconies, while a bridal suite will include its own dressing room, cellar and bar, to address demand for wedding experiences.
Levantine Estate managing director Samantha Jreissati said the new offering will help the winery to fully realise its aspirations, blending architectural excellence with quality wine in the Yarra Valley.
“We are simply filling a gap in our existing offering and aim to provide better facilities and a seamless experience for our patrons,” she said.
