The world just crowned this Aussie hotel a style icon

Emily Murphy

Social Media Manager & Writer

04 June 2025

2 mins Read

Australia’s only entry on LA LISTE’s 2025 best hotels list is edgy, arty and unfiltered – just like the city it calls home.

In a coup for Australia’s design and hospitality scene, The StandardX, Melbourne has been awarded the coveted Style & Design Hotel Award in the LA LISTE World’s Best Hotels 2025 rankings – the only Australian property to make this year’s prestigious global list.

The StandardX has received the Style & Design Hotel Award.

LA LISTE, the Paris-based organisation best known for its rigorous rankings of the world’s top restaurants, has once again turned its gaze to luxury hotels. And in a field dominated by European grande dames, tropical eco-resorts and opulent American stays, Melbourne’s rebellious newcomer stood out and represented Australia.

Described by LA LISTE as “arty, bold, unfiltered,” The StandardX is the first hotel of its kind outside North America – and it’s already making waves for its unorthodox approach to style. Think streetwise design meets brutalist bones, layered with vintage touches and irreverent artwork that captures the creativity of the surrounding Fitzroy neighbourhood.

The accolade places the hotel in the company of trailblazing properties like Maison Heler Metz in France and Ulaman Eco Luxury Resort in Bali, highlighting The StandardX’s ability to hold its own on the world stage. The judges recognised it not just for aesthetic edge, but for embodying a deeper shift in global travel: toward authentic, local experiences and creative cultural immersion.

The StandardX is arty, bold and unfiltered. (Image: Rhiannon Taylor)

According to LA LISTE founder Philippe Faure, “Hotels are no longer just places to stay. They have become cultural landmarks, ecological laboratories, and creators of unforgettable experiences.” The StandardX clearly ticks all three boxes.

For Australian travellers (and stylish visitors alike), the recognition is a reminder that some of the world’s most forward-thinking hotels are right on our doorstep. And for Melbourne, it’s yet another reason to be smug about being the country’s cool capital.

Melbourne’s rebellious newcomer stood out at the awards. (Image: Rhiannon Taylor)

Social Media Manager & Writer

Emily Murphy

116 Posts

Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Social Media Manager and Writer, and in her three years at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media presence and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing – equipping her with a diverse skill set that enhances her storytelling and audience engagement. Emily holds a Bachelor of Communication and Media Studies (Journalism and Professional Writing) and a Bachelor of International Studies (Global Media and Communication) from the University of Wollongong. When she's not creating scroll-stopping social media posts, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.