Lancemore Hotel Group has unveiled Cleveland Estate as the first property under its new sister brand, LMG Collection.

The property, formerly Cleveland Winery, officially reopened in February 2024 following a multi-million-dollar refurbishment, revealing a relaxed retreat in a Victorian-era setting with 50 new-look guest rooms and suites, surrounded by a vineyard, gardens and farmland.

“The brief for Cleveland Estate’s transformation was not to create something perfect and definitely not pretentious,” said Lancemore Hotel Group CEO, Julian Clark.

“We wanted the property, with its roots tied to Victoria’s gold rush era, to transcend time and trends and reflect LMG’s love of art and design. Its architecture is distinctively Australian and, like Australia, the refurbishment offers a melting pot of design references from diverse cultures, countries and periods, each combining to create a truly unique and colourful personality.”

Design and art enthusiast Caroline Riddell-Clark spearheaded the renovation, introducing a daring colour palette, a collection of antique and modern pieces, each hand-picked to create “wonderfully eclectic and theatrical interiors”.

“For decades I’ve enjoyed collecting intriguing pieces from my travels around Australia and abroad,” said Riddell-Clark.

“More recent finds – big and small – now inform the inviting interiors of Cleveland Estate, combining with the property’s historic features and abundant natural beauty to shape the next generation of guest experiences in the Macedon Ranges.”

A number of accommodation buildings halo the main homestead, each with a distinct design narrative reflective of its purpose, including the Lakeview dwelling, which features timbers salvaged from wharves, bridges and other historic buildings.

“Lakeview exudes luxury and contemporary style,” said Riddell-Clark.

“Despite its relaxed nature, every piece of furniture within it is a modern design icon.

“The mix of leather, velvet and suede these pieces provide, alongside auction finds and beautiful reclaimed objects, adds layers of interest and sophistication to each space.”

Rooms include sleek freestanding bathtubs and artworks by celebrated artists such as John Olsen, Russell Drysdale and Kate Bergin.

The property also features shared zones such as the billiard room, laidback lounging areas and dining nooks, an on-site restaurant and cellar door.

“Lancefield and its surrounds are renowned for impeccable food and wine culture,” Clark said.

“Complementing the estate’s renewed aesthetic across guestrooms, suites and shared spaces, the restaurant and cellar door bring guests closer to enjoying the best local produce.

“Getaways here are now a holistic experience, giving guests everything they expect from a Lancemore property but with an eclectic, playful sense of energy that’s come to define the new LMG Collection.”

Situated an hour’s drive from the CBD of Melbourne, the property is expected to draw visitors for leisure stays, special occasions and conferences.