The Jackalope Hotel – Victoria

Now, one would not expect a luxury hotel and winery in Australia to pick the jackalope as its mascot but Melbourne-based hotelier Louis Li did just that. The Jackalope Hotel is situated in Merricks North on Mornington Peninsula, an hour’s drive from Melbourne, and its concept, design and overall experience justifies its name in a number of whimsical ways.

Surrounded by its own vineyards and on the site of an 18th century Federation cottage, the hotel incorporates the past but in a strong, contemporary design language that seeks to create a visual statement but without disturbing its natural environs. Designed by Carr Design Group the hotel appears as a large monolithic structure from afar, covered with charred wood and a black metal skin that prepares approaching visitors for concept within.

The entire experience revolves around the idea of alchemy, and how different ingredients can be mixed to create something new and precious. This mystical pursuit is embodied in the image of the jackalope, whose magical nature is celebrated with a seven-meter-tall sculpture by Emily Floyd and UAP — a black toy-like form that greets visitors at the hotel’s front entrance.

The hotel’s 46 rooms range from 38-square-meter “Terrace” studios with outdoor views to 85-square-meter “Lair” suites that include a kitchenette and their own dining area. Black and grey dominates all the interiors, illuminated with shiny details of gold, silver, bronze and copper. The all-black background also functions as a neutral canvas for the several art installations and signature design pieces scattered throughout the hotel. In the rooms, black Japanese-style soaking bathtubs promise many hours of relaxation, based very much on environmental responsibility, as the Jackalope collects rainwater in seven large tanks, as part of efficient sustainability strategies integrated into the design right from the start.

Jackalope Hotel images Sharyn Cairns