A new precinct for travellers

Project

Melbourne Airport Hotel

Built has delivered Melbourne Airport’s first new-build hotel in over 20 years, setting a new benchmark for airport hospitality and mixed-use precinct development.

Strategically located next to Terminal 4, the dual-branded Novotel & ibis Styles Melbourne Airport is more than just a place to stay: it reimagines the traveller experience. The project brings together two internationally recognised hotel brands under one roof, with integrated wellness centre, dining options, conference facilities, and a distinctly new addition for the airport: a premium two-level coworking space known as Aerofoil.

Value: $160m

Client: Australia Pacific Airports Melbourne (APAM)

Architect: Fender Katsalidis

Completion date: 2024

Built was brought on board at the earliest stage, engaged for an eight-week Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) phase. During this period, Built worked closely with key stakeholders, including Australia Pacific Airports Melbourne (the operator of Melbourne Airport) and consultants, to audit operational requirements for the dual-branded hotel. Through this process, strict design guidelines were applied to develop and prioritise a value management strategy that balanced cost with scope, without compromising the project’s vision.

The ECI phase delivered significant value early on. At its conclusion, Built presented a proposal that included an innovative addition to the original scope, a 4,500m² basement carpark. The airport previously had no hotel with on site parking, and this new feature addressed a critical gap. Designed to a set budget and program, the basement addition allowed permits and construction activities to proceed ahead of schedule.

The hotel’s delivery included sophisticated food and beverage facilities, a conference centre, pool, gym and wellness centre, restaurant, wine bar, and café, alongside a bespoke commercial office fitout housed within Aerofoil.

Aerofoil became one of the most iconic features of the development. Inspired by the wing of a plane, the elliptical structure features complex triple-curvature geometry. The façade, originally specified with overlapping metal cladding, was refined into a seamless continuous sheet—eliminating joints and creating a sleek, uninterrupted finish. Feature panelling and arched windows elevate the northern elevation, while west-facing windows offer expansive views across the runway.

Before being brought to life on site, the Aerofoil design was integrated into a detailed digital model, allowing Built to resolve design complexities, test constructability, and streamline fabrication through a digital-first approach.

Built’s use of advanced construction technologies enabled early issue identification and allowed the team to optimise workflows and enhance build efficiency across the entire 10-storey hotel. These digital tools, combined with strong collaboration during the ECI phase, proved invaluable in managing the scale and complexity of the project.

Now complete and open to the public, the 464-room Novotel & ibis Styles Melbourne Airport is already making an impact. With record-breaking passenger volumes , the hotel is helping to meet growing demand and supporting Melbourne Airport’s transformation into a world-class travel precinct.