Step into a world where history intertwines with architectural splendour as we embark on a captivating journey through Melbourne’s prestigious Collins Street and its extraordinary heritage buildings, most prominently our own magnificent Rialto building.
Join us as we delve into the deep significance, preservation efforts, and remarkable stories behind these iconic structures.
In this blog, we shed light on the renowned Rialto building, a symbol of architectural beauty and historical richness that continues to grace the Melbourne skyline and house the valued guests of InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto.
Exploring the History of Heritage Buildings in Melbourne
Strolling back through the rich tapestry of Melbourne’s history, you’ll likely discover the Rise of ‘Marvellous Melbourne’ as a pinnacle of the city’s cultural past.
During the mid-1800s Gold Rush, Melbourne became the wealthiest city in the world, sparking a period of remarkable growth and prosperity. This newfound wealth led to an architectural revolution, with magnificent buildings gracing the city and a wondrous period of innovation for architects, business owners, and merchants alike.
As Collins Street flourished into Melbourne’s premier boulevard, the renowned Rialto building became a prominent symbol of the city’s aspirations. Together with the original Winfield building next door, the Rialto held booming commercial enterprises and offered the very latest in modern technology, with strings of street-level shopfronts and plenty of overhead offices flourishing with business.
Melbourne embraced the opulence and grandeur of the era, showcasing architectural marvels that still stand today.
The Rialto Melbourne: An Historic Landmark
At the heart of Collins Street stands the iconic Rialto Melbourne, a testament to Melbourne’s rich heritage.
Established in 1891, this historic landmark has witnessed the city’s evolution and transformation over the years. Now the striking home of our own InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, there’s more to this building’s luxury hotel interiors than meets the eye.
Originally designed by esteemed architect William Pitt, the Rialto’s construction marked a significant milestone in Melbourne’s architectural journey.
Architect of Distinction
William Pitt, the visionary architect behind the Rialto, sought to create a grand edifice befitting Melbourne’s growing prominence. Together with Patrick McCaughan who commissioned the building, Pitt’s meticulous attention to detail and innovative design approach ensured that the Rialto stood as a masterpiece of architectural excellence.
The Rialto’s Role on Collins Street
As Collins Street flourished into Melbourne’s premier boulevard, the Rialto became a prominent symbol of the city’s aspirations. With its captivating presence, the Rialto has been an enduring landmark, attracting admiration from both locals and visitors alike. Today, it stands as a living testament to Melbourne’s rich history and architectural legacy.
Famous Figures of the Rialto
Within the walls of the Rialto, one of the most iconic heritage buildings in Melbourne, remarkable individuals have left their indelible mark on its history. You can discover more about their unique lives in our People of the Rialto series.
A Rialto Melbourne Tragedy
Samuel Meech, a construction worker involved in the building’s creation, met a mysterious fate that continues to intrigue to this day. Among the many draftsmen who worked on the Rialto’s construction back in the 1890s, Samuel suddenly fell to his death while attending to the Flinders Street side of the building. The cause for his fall remains a mystery, but his memory will live on forever in the walls he helped to build.
One of Melbourne’s Oldest Law Firms
In the Rialto’s earliest post-construction days of 1890, renowned lawyer Mr. Theodore Fink rented an apartment in the building, and his law firm remains one of Melbourne’s oldest. Despite a near-catastrophic setback for the popular Fink and Best firm when the land market crashed in 1891, Theodore was able to save his beloved business. The firm has since evolved into Best Hooper Solicitors, and in 2015 it was named First Tier Leading Planning Law Firm by Doyle’s Guide.
The Rialto’s Mysterious Vagabond
Miss Catherine Hay Thomson, known as the ‘female vagabond of Melbourne’, also found solace within the Rialto’s walls during her unconventional life. An investigative journalist and trailblazer for feminism, Catherine exposed corruption in Melbourne’s brothels and taverns by dressing as a male counterpart. Her residence at the Rialto, once kept secret to protect her identity, was later discovered to be on the fourth floor of the Rialto building in 1904.
There are many more stories that lay beneath the brickwork of the Rialto’s walls. When you stay at InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto, you can take a trip down memory lane in our in-house art gallery which features photographs old and new, or speak to our concierge staff to get all the best stories of those who once walked the Rialto’s halls.
Exploring the Architecture of the Rialto Building
When you walk through the doors of the Rialto Melbourne, you’ll find yourself transported into a world where architectural magnificence meets modern sophistication.
As you approach the building, its majestic façade commands attention with its intricate Gothic detailing, soaring arches, and striking spires that reach towards the sky. Uncover the Rialto’s secrets and stories as you stroll through its historic halls and admire its architectural splendour. Feel the echoes of the past as you learn about the notable figures who have graced its corridors and the captivating stories that surround them.
This architectural masterpiece places you back into an era of opulence and elegance, where every element has been meticulously crafted to create a sense of awe-inspiring grandeur.
Neo-Gothic Splendour: A Fusion of Elegance and Modernity
As you step further into the Rialto Building, you are greeted by the breathtaking neo-Gothic splendour that defines its interior. The fusion of timeless elegance and modernity creates a captivating ambience that enchants visitors from the moment they enter.
The interior spaces boast soaring ceilings adorned with intricate carvings, majestic columns that exude strength and grace, and an abundance of natural light that filters through the Atrium’s impressive glass ceiling, casting a warm glow on the surroundings.
The attention to detail is evident in every corner, with ornate mouldings, elegant archways, and delicate embellishments that showcase the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
The Rialto Building stands as a testament to the architectural excellence of its time, leaving visitors in awe of its splendour and artistry.
Discover Melbourne’s Historic Collins Street Landmarks
During the Marvellous Melbourne era, the Rialto was commissioned alongside a string of other boom-style buildings that remain on Collins Street today. These stunning landmarks form the very brickwork of the city’s architectural significance, and they’re well worth a visit during your stay.
The Austral Building
Perhaps one of the most famous heritage buildings in Melbourne, the Austral Building is a testament to the city’s prosperous past. Built in the late 1800s, its ornate façade and stunning architectural features still stand as polished products of Melbourne’s golden era and the grandeur that defined it.
The Manchester Unity Building
A true gem of Art Deco architecture, the Manchester Unity Building is an iconic Collins Street landmark. Its unique design exemplifies the Art Deco movement’s elegance and sophistication.
With its striking geometric patterns, intricate detailing, and ornamental sculptures, this building stands proud as a testament to Melbourne’s architectural diversity and luxurious design history.
Alcaston House
Tucked away on Collins Street, Alcaston House is a hidden gem that showcases Melbourne’s rich cultural past.
Laced with Victorian-era charm, this heritage-listed building has become a hub for art and creativity, housing renowned galleries and showcasing breathtaking exhibitions.
St Michael’s Church
Stepping into St Michael’s Church is like entering a sanctuary of peace and tranquillity amidst the bustling city.
With its magnificent stained glass windows, grand arches, and serene atmosphere, this heritage-listed church has stood as a spiritual beacon and photography hotspot for over a century.
Preserving the Past with Heritage Conservation
Amidst the modern skyline of Melbourne, the preservation of heritage buildings in Melbourne like the Rialto holds immense importance. These architectural treasures serve as a reminder of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, and they’re invaluable threads that intertwine to create the magnificent tapestry of Melbourne.
Efforts to conserve and protect these iconic structures are vital in maintaining the character and charm of Melbourne’s past, allowing future generations to appreciate and connect with the city’s architectural legacy and keeping important historical figures and milestones alive.
Through meticulous restoration and adaptive reuse, the Rialto Melbourne has been transformed into a symbol of timeless beauty, where the past seamlessly coexists with the present.
The Rialto building is now listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and protected by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria).
Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Melbourne’s History
With its captivating presence, the Rialto has been an enduring landmark, attracting admiration from both locals and visitors alike. Today, it stands as a living testament to Melbourne’s rich history and architectural legacy.
To fully immerse yourself in Melbourne’s captivating architectural history, we invite you to experience the grandeur and elegance of InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto. Our luxurious hotel, nestled in the heart of Collins Street, offers an exceptional stay that seamlessly blends contemporary comfort with the charm of Melbourne’s heritage.
From our elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites to our award-winning dining options, every aspect of your stay is designed to envelop you in a world of refinement and sophistication while keeping the wonderful history of Marvellous Melbourne alive and well.
Reserve your stay at InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto to experience an unforgettable experience steeped in history.
