Q: What kind of impact do you hope the new hotel will have now it’s open?
A: The goal with The StandardX, Melbourne has always been to create something embedded in the neighbourhood, not just near it.
In Fitzroy, that means being part of the creative and cultural rhythm of the place. We want to be useful – to locals, to travellers, to the people who shape this part of Melbourne.
If we’re doing our job right, the hotel feels less like a statement and more like a conversation.
Q: How is the Australian hotel market looking right now?
A: There’s real energy here again. Melbourne’s back on the map in a meaningful way – big events are thriving and people are traveling with more intent.
The shift toward smaller, more design-conscious, locally aware hotels is clear. That’s where The StandardX, Melbourne fits. We’re not chasing volume – we’re focused on relevance.
Q: What type of guest does your hotel cater for?
A: It’s a mix. You’ve got people who know The Standard and are curious to see how it translates here. Then there are locals and regional travellers who just want a stay that reflects the city they actually live in.
We’re also seeing a younger guest who’s looking for design and culture but doesn’t want the formality or price tag that usually comes with it.
Q: What are some of the standout facilities that guests can enjoy?
A: We’ve kept it focused. BANG, the restaurant on the ground floor, brings a sharp take on Thai cuisine. The rooftop is quiet, open only to hotel guests and offers a different view of the city.
And The Box, our take on a neighbourhood bodega, stocks things made within a few kilometres; wine, ceramics, pantry items, clothing. It’s simple, but intentional.
Q: Tell us a little more about BANG?
A: BANG is led by Justin Dingle-Garciyya and it’s about doing a few things really well. Thai flavours, local produce, a tight and thoughtful wine list mostly from Victoria.
It’s casual in attitude, serious in execution. No hotel dining room energy – this is a place you’d go regardless of where you’re staying.
Q: What is there for guests to do in the areas around your hotel?
A: Fitzroy doesn’t need much introduction. It’s one of the few places where the creative scene still feels organic. You can walk out and find something worth your time in any direction.
We’re not trying to curate the neighbourhood for our guests – we just give them a good place to start.
Q: What sustainability initiatives does the hotel employ?
A: We’ve built with function in mind. Rainwater systems, smart energy use, materials that make sense.
In the kitchen, we’ve focused on low waste and local sourcing. It’s less about talking points, more about making sure the impact matches the intent.
Q: Finally, what sets your hotel apart from others in the location?
A: Most hotels bring their identity with them and try to layer it onto the city. We approached this one differently.
The StandardX, Melbourne doesn’t lead with brand – it leads with place. It’s still us, but it’s through Fitzroy’s lens.
https://www.standardx.com/melbourne/
