Balancing grand waterfront views with refined, functional comforts, Riverlee’s 1 Hotel & Homes Melbourne penthouse by FK and ODO is a residential oasis effortlessly connected to Melbourne’s new Northbank precinct.

In partnership with Gaggenau
Published
11/03/2026
Words
Sara Jacob

As its role in waterfront industry evolved and gradually faded, the northern bank of the Yarra River was reimagined. It began to be valued for its outlook and inherent liveability in contrast to its operations. Riverlee was among the first developers to embrace the location’s potential, envisioning private residences within a luxury hotel that looks out onto the water.

Riverlee was among the first developers to embrace the location’s potential, envisioning private residences within a luxury hotel that looks out onto the water.

“The 1 Hotel & Homes penthouse is designed with a much deeper understanding of what luxury really is,” says Kristine Lee Pratt, creative director at Riverlee. “It is far beyond how things look; it is about how residences feel and how they support people in their daily lives.” With architecture by FK and interiors crafted by ODO, the home complements the elevated style of the hotel, where amenities and services are extended to the private dwellings. “Aligning the penthouse with the 1 Hotel & Homes ethos was very important,” she explains. “There is a focus on respectful luxury, honest materials and creating a personal sanctuary.”

The penthouse unfolds across 700-square-metres. In the lobby, the moment of arrival is highlighted by an expansive skylight towards which the central landscaping grows. This bright, natural space is followed by a cocktail bar and lounge – social zones – that precede the private bedrooms. Each sleeping area is paired with an ensuite and the primary bedroom incorporates a generous lounge. Beyond sits the main entertainment zone, with sliding doors that allow residents to subtly divide the living area from the kitchen. The latter forms the focal point of the home, offering the most striking view of the river.

“We used Gaggenau throughout the kitchen,” says Lee Pratt. “We’ve worked with them for over 10 years, and what has really stood out is the way they approach quality and design. Their pieces are thoughtful, honest and built to last. For a place like the 1 Hotel & Homes penthouse, where the kitchen is not just a cooking area but a place for connection and ritual, their appliances truly complement the serenity of the home.” Throughout the apartment, materiality reinforces the core concept of mindful living. Herringbone oak flooring and natural stone create a warm, grounded interiority, while on the terrace the timber pergola and layered landscaping establish an uplifting outdoor space.

Balancing grand waterfront views with refined, functional comforts, the 1 Hotel & Homes Melbourne penthouse is a residential oasis. Throughout the space, residents are invited to enjoy the natural tranquillity unique to the Northbank precinct.

Architecture and interior design by FK
Hotel interior design by One Design Office
Hotel interior design by Starwood Hotels
Landscape design by Oculus
Furnishings by ODO
Filmed and edited by The Local Production