Overseas Premier Construction

Jackalope Hotel

Jackalope
Written by Roma Publications

Jackalope Hotel

The first hotel for 28-year-old entrepreneur Louis Li, Jackalope is a luxury destination located on Australia’s Mornington Peninsula. Open since April 2017, the Jackalope is a pristine property set in the heart of the Peninsula’s wine region and has won widespread praise since welcoming its first guests.

Jackalope

The hotel was conceived in collaboration with a number of Australia’s preeminent creatives, the result of which is a reimagination of luxury accommodation. Comprising an old and new building the hotel based around an 18th century cottage. Carr, one of Australia’s most influential architecture and interior design firms, was instrumental in creating Jackalope’s bold look. Representing brave and experiential architecture and interiors, the design concepts spark curiosity in an adventurous and edgy celebration of alchemy and transformation.

Upon arrival guests are greeted by a striking 7.5 metre high Jackalope sculpture that provides an immediate hint to the whimsical and mythical qualities of the hotel before them. A single storey link acts as the hotel entry pavilion providing a contemporary connection and juxtaposition between the restored heritage cottage and the modernist new building. A dramatically lit black glass box devoted to the display of wine is a standout element of the pavilion and represents the beginning of the journey and a taste of the narrative to follow.

The adjoining lounge and bar, housed within the original 18th century cottage, celebrates the hotel’s origins. While its architecture has been meticulously and sensitively restored, the interiors of the lounge mark a departure from conservation. This includes test tube like glass vessels lining the walls, a marble clad bar acting as the alchemist’s workbench, jewel like objects, statement furniture including Edra’s gold Leather Works armchair and an electric blue billiard table.

The larger main restaurant, Doot Doot Doot, is an atmospheric and intimate space. A particular highlight is the spectacular light installation collaboratively designed by Carr and Fabio Ongarato Design (FOD). Jewel like in form, the installation references fermentation & bubbling and the transition from en masse to detailed, fermentation to sublimation.

Jackalope

The 81 square meter lighting installation was lovingly brought to life by multi international award winning designer and manufacturer Jan Flook of Jan Flook Lighting Pty.

Guest rooms reference tonal themes around planetary metals of gold, silver, copper or bronze – reflected in metallic coloured mosaics, furnishings and accessories. A sense of indulgence and comfort is prevalent throughout while floor to ceiling windows and private terraces connect occupants to the surrounding nature. A 30 metre infinity pool with purity in finish and detail is a further connection to the landscape.

Chris McCue, Carr Director of Architecture, said:

“Architecture that is unprecedented and unconventional with a simplicity and subtlety of strength and form that belies what lies within. The monolithic, blackened structure provides a vivid juxtaposition to the rich green, red and silver foliage of the landscape and adjacent vines yet integrates seamlessly with its surrounds.”

Dan Cox, Carr Director of Interiors, added:

“Interiors celebrate the mystery and whimsy of alchemy and the art of transformation with tonal elements of gold, silver, copper and bronze throughout. Spaces reflect and embrace the Alchemists workshop – eclectic, experimental and contemporary in detailing – forming something truly unique and rare.”

The new design-driven concept that the Jackalope offers to guests has already proved to be a huge hit, highlighted by the wide variety of accolades it has already received. In November the Jackalope was one of eight properties shortlisted for an INSIDE Award 2017 in the ‘Hotels’ category. An integral part of the INSIDE World Festival of Interiors, the INSIDE Awards shines a spotlight on the people and projects that are changing the face of global interiors.

To find out more about the Jackalope hotel, please visit jackalopehotels.com. To view more projects by Carr, please visit carr.net.au.

Jackalope

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Roma Publications