While the saying “it’s not the destination, it’s the journey” certainly resonates on a philosophical level, in the realm of travel, the destination is just as important. And hotels, in particular, transcend their role as mere transient accommodation, offering transformative experiences that serve as gateways into the unique cultural and geographical contexts of their locales. While comfort and convenience remain fundamental considerations, in the era of increasing homogeneity, contemporary travellers seek authenticity and a deeper connection to the places they visit – and as a foundational storytelling device, design plays a crucial part in curating immersive localised experiences.

Ovolo Group, a brand of boutique hotels in some of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Hong Kong, Bali and Australia, masterfully leverages the transformative potential of design to render extraordinary hospitality experiences enthusiastically rooted in their local context.

Founded in Hong Kong by entrepreneur Girish Jhunjhnuwala just over two decades ago, Ovolo Group quickly became one of the region’s most dynamic hospitality brands. Today, with a collection of hotels and restaurants in Hong Kong, Bali, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane, Ovolo creates exceptional destinations that keep the needs of the modern traveller front of mind, while fostering curiosity, exploration and connection.

This holistic ambition renders interiors that seamlessly fuse comfort with the delight of getting out of one’s comfort zone. With flexible check-in, check-out, and cancellation, effortless booking, reliable Wi-Fi, self-service laundry, and gym access, Ovolo’s customer-centric philosophy makes it easy for guests to unwind and immerse in the beautifully curated spaces designed as preambles to their urban explorations.

This ethos is evident in the design of Ovolo Woolloomooloo. Housed in the historic Finger Wharf building dating back to 1912, the hotel celebrates Sydney’s rich maritime heritage and its transformation into a cosmopolitan harborside haven. A result of Hassell Studio’s outstanding visions, the design masterfully blends the original building structure with industrial chic and timeless sophistication. The interior design enhances the exposed wooden beams and timber floors, incorporating playful furnishings and meticulously curated selection of artworks. One of them, the 86kg clock by the Swedish design studio, Humans Since 1982, stands out as a captivating centrepiece – the 128 individual clock faces form a grand timepiece showcasing an evolving display of kinetic art formations.

This dedication to arts is reflected through guest rooms’ decor, with suites inspired by iconic Australian bands like INXS and AC/DC bringing a rock ‘n’ roll edge to the guest experience. The in-house restaurant, Bar Woolloomooloo, offers a refined bistro experience featuring classic dishes prepared with precision. Using only the finest ingredients, the menu is complemented by an exceptional selection of vintages and expertly crafted cocktails. This elevated yet relaxed offering positions Ovolo as a vibrant addition to the Woolloomooloo Wharf precinct, and perfectly encapsulates the essence of Sydney’s dynamic spirit.

In Victoria, Ovolo’s unique take on wonder takes shape through two distinct hotels, each reflective of Melbourne’s vibrant character. Laneways by Ovolo, nestled in Melbourne’s iconic laneways, captures the city’s street art and urban pulse with interiors by Luchetti Krelle that pay homage to the 80s Memphis design movement. The nostalgic decor embraces a bold rejection of minimalism in lieu of bold colours, geometric patterns, and eclectic furniture design. Room 303, designed in collaboration with Neale Whitaker, stands out as a real treat for any design aficionado with artworks by Nunzio Miano, Sarah Nedovic Gaunt, and Flynn Cowan adorning the walls.

Meanwhile, Ovolo South Yarra embodies the area’s trendsetting spirit with a playful collision of retro-chic and pop art, featuring works by artists like Mr. Brainwash and Punk Me Tender. Plush fabrics, chrome accents, and geometric wallpapers energise rooms and suites, creating a sense of playful nostalgia and tactile richness. The Rockstar Suites, dedicated to iconic power couples, offer a truly luxurious experience, while the hatted, plant-based Lona Misa restaurant perfectly encapsulates the hotel’s whimsical character.

Located in Canberra’s NewActon arts and cultural district, Ovolo Nishi is a genuine haven for art and design enthusiasts. During the original development over 60 designers, artists, artisans, architects and curators were engaged to create a space that evokes stories of traditional Australian landscapes and culture, and today, the hotel’s striking pineapple-shaped facade stands out as a distinctive feature amongst the surrounding cityscape. The interiors are a masterclass in understated elegance, showcasing natural materials like reclaimed Tasmanian tree ferns and timber from the hotel’s own Blackbutt facade, textures, and a collection of nationally recognised artworks.

The hotel’s grand staircase – also handcrafted from salvaged timbers – stands out as a striking centrepiece and a testament to the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. Committed to using local ingredients, the Monster Kitchen & Bar restaurant blends classic French brasserie with Japanese-rooted flavours, while the internal atrium jungle and views of Lake Burley Griffin further enhance the connection to the surrounding landscape.

In Brisbane, Ovolo The Valley pulsates with the vibrant energy of its neighbourhood. Under the creative guidance of Woods Bagot and art curator Kathleen Wilson, the hotel boasts a quirky aesthetic inspired by Fortitude Valley’s eclectic mix of entertainment, nightlife, and art. The energising space encourages playful indulgence and liberation, with bespoke patterned wallpapers juxtaposed against eccentric furniture. Commissioned works from emerging Australian artists like Lisa Madigan and Gerwyn Davies adorn the walls, while the signature Rock Star Suites, equipped with personal bars and vinyl record players, strike the perfect balance between utmost comfort and unconventional aesthetic.

Ovolo Hotels aren’t just places to stay – they are vibrant manifestations of their environments, each one a unique chapter in a story of design, culture, and modern travel. From the retro-futurism of South Yarra to the eclectic energy of The Valley, each hotel promises an unforgettable journey where design serves as a narrative thread intricately interwoven into the very essence of the travel experience. And with amenities such as complimentary beverages during each hotel’s “Apero Hour,” a price match guarantee, and a discount of up to 15% for direct bookings, Ovolo demonstrates that caring for their guests is an integral part of their design philosophy – and their ambition to transcend the ordinary.