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HOTEL HOTEL IN CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA
A quirky design hotel that walks the walk when it comes to sustainability
Located in Canberra, Australia, the improbable NewAction Nishi building boasts an average 8 star NaTHERS rating, which is roughly 5.5 stars higher than the average local building, meaning that it’s a pretty darn energy efficient building. Designed by Australian firm Fender Katsalidis Architects in conjunction with Japanese studio Suppose Design Office, sustainability and design form the core of the structure, which houses the equally improbable Hotel Hotel.
The 68-room Hotel Hotel is the result of an impressive collaborative effort between more than 50 artists, designers and creators. Also eco-friendly and design-focused, the hotel’s interior features locally sourced and raw materials, refurbished vintage furniture and a distinctly Australian vibe.
Although concrete, reclaimed timber, natural fiber materials and cork dominate the decor, the overall ambiance shifts and changes. The hotel’s so-called “internal” rooms offer a pensive, withdrawn atmosphere and a view of the interior atrium, while the light-filled “external” rooms overlook the adjacent Lake Burley Griffin. Australian film direction Don Cameron curated the rooms, carefully selecting 20th century furniture, found objects, antiques and primitive art with the intention of cultivating a consistently meaningful experience.
Adding to the peculiar charm, a series of custom objects were created for the hotel by local artists and designers. Adam Goodrum an angular, checkered table that populates the communal space of the hotel and is aptly called the “Feasting Table”, while Anna-Wili HighField designed a whimsical Owl Pendant chandelier.
An impressive reclaimed timber foyer was designed by Australian studio March Studio and provides visitors with an appropriate welcome to the Nishi building.