Melbourne Airport is set to welcome its first new-build internationally branded hotel in over 20 years with the official opening of the dual-branded Novotel and Ibis Styles Melbourne Airport on July 1.

The AU$230 million project, located within walking distance of Terminal 4, is Victoria’s largest and most significant hotel development this year.

“Not only will the new-build hotels provide more choice for travellers seeking a place to stay, they will also offer a welcoming hub for the workers in the airport precinct,” said Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer PME, Adrian Williams.

“Having just been voted the best airport in Australia and the Pacific, it’s only fitting that Melbourne Airport will now be able to meet the increasing demand for more hotel rooms and have greater choice.

“These landmark hotel openings complement and expand upon Accor’s extensive experience with operating airport hotels in key gateway cities across the Pacific region, including Sydney, Brisbane, Darwin, Auckland and Christchurch.”

Designed by FK Architect with interiors by Woods Bagot, the dual-branded development features 464 guest rooms – 248 Novotel and 216 in Ibis Styles – located within The Hive precinct.

Three new food and beverage venues include the Small Holdings Cafe, for coffee and pastries; Italian restaurant and wine bar, Boccata; and modern gastropub, Amber State Taphouse and Kitchen.

Taking inspiration from regional Victoria, Novotel Melbourne Airport follows a natural palette and delivers an open and spacious environment for guests, while Ibis Styles Melbourne Airport embraces Melbourne’s urban feel with a playful aesthetic.

“We’re excited to bring these new hotels to Melbourne Airport and give more choice to travellers and airport workers alike,” said Melbourne Airport’s Head of Property Development and Asset Development, Stuart Verrier.

“Melbourne is now Australia’s largest city, and these hotels are essential for the growing number of people visiting our city, many of whom need a night before or after a long flight. But more than that, they also offer dining, wellness, conference and co-working facilities that provide a reason to come out to Melbourne Airport – even if you’re not flying.”

Guests at both properties, as well as transient travellers, can also avail of Melbourne’s first airport health and wellbeing club, Higher State, which features an indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, massage and fitness centre.

There are also three conference and events spaces and a modern co-working space as part of The Hive precinct.

“As Victoria’s gateway to the world, Melbourne Airport provides the perfect hub for travellers so we’re thrilled to be opening the first new-build internationally branded hotels at the airport in 20 years,” said Novotel and Ibis Styles Melbourne Airport General Manager, David Alexander.

“Given that passenger numbers will only continue to increase over the coming years, these properties are a much-needed addition to Melbourne’s tourism industry and are set to bring huge economic and social benefits not only to Melbourne, but also to the state of Victoria.”