Small footprint, big experience: a new chapter for Motto by Hilton

ClientHilton

Studio team Melbourne, AUS

Services Interior Design

As Motto by Hilton prepared to launch its first Asia-Pacific location, the brief was clear: create a hotel that feels rooted in place and rich in experience designed for travellers who value location, style, and local character over square meterage.

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Statement lighting and a curved vanity define the hotel’s guest bathrooms — where refined materiality meets the ease of everyday rituals.

A bold mix of sculptural forms, rich timbers and playful art moments define the social lounge — a place designed to connect people, spark ideas, and celebrate the rhythm of city stays.

Set in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD, the hotel is purpose-built for the modern short-stay guest offering compact rooms offset by vibrant communal areas and two distinct hospitality venues.

On the ground floor, a casual all-day restaurant brings flexibility and approachability to the forefront drawing in locals and passersby with a menu built around share plates and brunch staples. Above, a rooftop bar offers a more refined experience, anchored by Australian whiskey cocktails, sunset views, and a relaxed sense of elevation.

Both spaces are stitched together through a shared design language inspired by the textures of the Adelaide Hills and the layered geometry of the city’s heritage architecture. The result is a cohesive guest experience: open, social, and unmistakably local.

Key Features

Every detail in motion — from stairwell shadows to sculptural furniture — balances utility and character, creating a space that transitions seamlessly from day to night.

A seamless blend of warm textures and soft geometry defines the Hilton MOTTO arrival experience — with layered lighting, timber panelling, and curated art that welcomes guests into a story, not just a space.

Heritage-inspired greens and muted tones guide guests through calm corridors, while custom signage and local artwork hint at Adelaide’s layered cultural identity.

In-room moments feel intentional and grounded — with tonal gradients, tactile furnishings, and natural light offering a quiet counterpoint to the buzz of city life.

The soft green palette and minimalist layout balance contemporary comfort with a nod to classic hospitality rituals — each room designed for thoughtful pause, not just sleep.

The MOTTO fitness studio blends wellness with calm design — natural light, soft neutrals, and efficient amenities create a space that feels as considered as it is functional.