Melbourne’s northeast is an interesting tale of history and modernity with architectural interest and a tapestry of food stories interwoven in all stages. Collingwood, originally colonised in 1842 and named after Baron Collingwood or perhaps an early hotel, is one of Melbourne’s oldest suburbs.
Full of historical buildings and surviving dwellings from the late 1800s, it also mingles retail with industrial, creative with artistic hubs. As for food, it’s a mecca for bars, providores and pantry staples. Here you’ll find Hatted restaurants and Reader’s Choice award-winners too.
Located amongst all of this, is the ultra-cool Collingwood Arts Precinct where you will find the new Veriu Collingwood building, developed in partnership with GURNER™ as part of its Atelier Residences project.
This new property marks the latest step in the leading boutique apartment hotel operator, with Veriu Group’s ambitious strategy to roll out its successful Veriu apartment hotel accommodation nationally. It also brings the total number of hotels in the group’s rapidly expanding portfolio to 21.
"Collingwood has experienced exponential growth and redevelopment in recent years. With the revitalisation of industrial areas and the transformation of the suburb into a desirable residential and commercial hub, there’s clearly a growing demand for accommodation options in the area so we feel our timing has been right,” says CEO Zed Sanjana.
A short walk from the hotel lies vibrant Smith Street, voted by 27,000 people in a survey two years back as the coolest street in the world by TimeOut Magazine. Veriu Collingwood is well supported by public transport including several bus routes, the No. 86 tram which travels into Melbourne’s CBD and the nearby North Richmond station, placing many of Melbourne’s major tourist attractions including the Melbourne Museum, the Royal Exhibition Building and the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Rod Laver Arena all within easy reach.
The new hotel’s interiors were designed by award-winning international architectural and interior design practice, Warren and Mahoney as part of GURNER™’s Atelier Residences project, with various elements informed by the surrounding neighbourhood and Collingwood’s rich artistic heritage, blending industrial and artistic aesthetics inspired by New York-style architecture.
Collingwood has been the home of artists and artisans since the late 1800s and the property forms part of the Collingwood Art Precinct housed in the former Gregory Peck Steel Products factory. Exposed brick, steel girders and recycled timber floorboards all offer a subtle nod to the location’s industrial roots, while a striking mural painted by celebrated New York street artist Keith Haring pays tribute to its artistic history.
Outside, the avant-garde street level façade has been inspired by Greenwich Village and Crosby Street Hotel in Soho, New York.
On your stay at Veriu Collingwood, check out these options of where to eat and drink – Amie Bakery Café Collingwood, Glou – a sustainable wine shop - Mamor Chocolates and High Tea Szalon and Shu restaurant. So, whether it’s a bakery you’re after, a responsible bottle of wine, fine chocolates or fine dining - we’ve got you covered.
