$260m plan for Melbourne's Hotel Windsor

Melbourne’s Hotel Windsor has announced a $260 million development proposal aimed at securing the future of the city’s only 19th Century grand hotel.  The proposal  aims to re-establish the property as the leading hotel in Melbourne. Highlights of the plan include:

• Refurbishment of the original hotel building and its key historic features. The exterior will be restored more faithfully to its original appearance, including the reinstatement of the Spring Street colonnade.

• A slim and elegant 25-storey tower – set back 25 metres from Spring Street and Bourke Street – that acts as a “curtain” draped behind the original historic hotel building it presents a distinctive form and finish that acts as a backdrop and “frame” for the hotel.  The tower will include additional guest rooms and suites, meeting rooms and health and leisure facilities.

• A new corner building to replace the 1960’s north wing addition. The ground level would be fully glazed with retractable openings, allowing al fresco dining and refreshments. The upper levels will include new banquet and function facilities, meeting rooms, guestrooms and an indoor pool.