Sustainability is a cornerstone of Seafarers,
as it is for every Riverlee project.
Situated on the banks of Melbourne’s most iconic waterway, steeped in the city’s
maritime past, and with an indigenous heritage spanning tens of thousands of
years, its setting is as unique as it is precious.
PRECINCT SUSTAINABILITY
The site’s heritage-listed Goods Shed No. 5—dormant for 45 years—has been dismantled piece by piece; each timber truss, each purlin, each window, hardwood roller door and bluestone, checked and catalogued for re-use or repurposing. In time, the entire shed will be reconstructed in place, the concrete and steel facade retained, ready for its new role as 1 Hotel Melbourne’s ground floor.
Ecologically sustainable design and best practice management will minimise environmental impacts at every stage of the precinct’s development. During construction works 80% of waste will be diverted from landfill, while permanent natural filtration strategies ensure captured rainwater and stormwater safeguard the water quality of the Yarra.
Green transport will be another feature of the precinct. The infrastructure required to support electric vehicles will be in place, there will be abundant bicycle parking on offer, and the nearest tram stop will be just two minutes away on foot.
HOTEL SUSTAINABILITY
The 1 Hotel Melbourne will do more than offer residents and guests a sustainable hotel experience. Believing that ‘if you fall back in love with nature, you safeguard it’, the hotel aims to instil lasting behavioural change through spontaneous interactions, moments of mindfulness that educate and resonate, and quick and quippy touchpoints thoughtfully placed throughout the premises.
The design of the hotel is based on biophilic principles. Inspired by the flora and fauna of Victoria’s coastal landscapes and rural countryside, its public spaces create a palpable connection with nature that fosters a sense of calm and wellbeing.
Hotel operations will also centre on the environment, health and wellness. From solar energy generation to rainwater storage and re-use, reducing food waste to composting, the elimination of significant single-use plastics to the use of reclaimed wharf timbers and other re-purposed or upcycled materials, the goal is always to tread lightly on the planet.
RESIDENTIAL SUSTAINABILITY
From their planning and design, to the meticulous selection and specification of appliances, fittings and finishes, each Seafarers residence will embody the 1 Hotel ethos, ensuring owners can enjoy every luxury, but at the same time live responsibly.
Natural finishes like stone, timber and porcelain feature extensively. Natural light fills the living spaces and bedrooms. In winter garden residences, natural ventilation combines with smart air-conditioning to ensure energy efficient climate control, all year round.
Advanced lighting systems and high-end appliances further minimise energy consumption. In kitchens, bathrooms and laundries, designer tapware adds style and sophistication, while reducing water usage. To create truly healthy homes, low VOC paints and other environmentally responsible finishes are used throughout.
