Nestled in the heart of South Yarra, United Places Botanic Gardens redefines boutique accommodation. A personal project by first-time hotelier and property developer Darren Rubenstein, United Places creates an escape for individuals who value creativity, knowledge and excellence. United Places is a creative platform, built upon my very own experiences in design, travel and hospitality,” Darren Muses. “I wanted to create a ‘home’ for the likeminded traveller seeking experiences that celebrate locality.”

Designed by Melbourne-based firm Carr Design, the hotel references brutalist architecture in a way that beautifully juxtaposes against the lush backdrop of the city’s Botanic Gardens. The black powder coating and aluminium finishes of the façade set the tone for the indoor spaces, where monochromatic corridors and asymmetrical architectural statements create visual drama.

A sculpted haven of modern living, Unites Places is the latest in a shifting genre of hospitality, where hotels are not just places to sleep but rather deeply experiential. These are spaces with affect, where they do not merely supplement visits to cities and spaces, they define them.

Ready to book your room? There’s no need – thanks to popular lifestyle program Australia by Design, you can experience United Places without leaving your living room. Airing on Channel 10 this coming Sunday the 15^th, Australia by Design: Interiors will take viewers inside the hotel, exploring the design finesse which has made United Places one of the most lauded openings of the year.

Find out more or catch up on past episodes here.

Photography by Sharyn Cairns of United Places Botanic Gardens Melbourne.