PHOTOGRAPHY: GRIFFIN SIM
I was so happy to be finally checking in to the Cullen on my last trip to Melbourne. One of the Art Series Hotels, and situated in the hip Prahran area, this hotels reputation exceeds itself. I’d been wanting to stay here for a while and it’s definitely one to tick off the list!
The decor in this luxurious but quirky hotel has a part-business-part-fun feel. The interior is mainly black and white aside from the original artworks of Adam Cullen which provide interesting pops of colour and lift the mood. His paintings and illustrations are hard to miss and are scattered throughout the hotel (hence the name). Most of the rooms are quite spacious and have an apartment feel, with designer furniture, and big comfortable beds. The desk space overlooking the window was my favourite, the perfect place to catch up on some work in the morning over a cuppa before heading out.
The exterior of the hotel is unique in itself, and almost looks like a block of swiss cheese, with cut out window holes and little boxes which appear to be rooms jutting out from the side of the building. Although Adam Cullen’s artwork isn’t necessarily for everyone, you can appreciate what the hotel is about and The Cullen has an attitude all it’s own. It’s identity shines through and you can’t help but appreciate this little bit of individuality in a sea of same-same hotels.
Trendy Grevil is just a few minutes walk away from The Cullen, and the coffee shop directly beneath the property serves up a mean takeaway latte. There’s countless restaurants and cafes in this area – not to mention shopping. The Prahran market is just across the street, and direct tram to the CBD is smack bang outside the hotel (Prahran Market is the stop) and it really makes getting into the CBD a breeze. If you want to zip into the city there’s always Uber, although during peak hour I found it was quicker to get the tram.
The Cullen is definitely one to consider for your next trip to Melbourne, especially if you’re looking for something a little bit out of the ordinary. The beds are plush and you can’t help but enjoy your stay – that’s always a bonus.
You can book your stay at The Cullen here.
