April 19, 2022 | By Graeme Kemlo
We get it: you’re wanting to get together with the team, but not surrounded by four walls, no classroom-style seating, no death by PowerPoint. So here’s a selection of cool event spaces perched high in the CBD, offering fresh air and a view.
This could be the meeting after the meeting, or it could be the meeting itself in the interests of bonding the team, which is why a number of upscale new hotels now offer rooftop event spaces. These spaces can be booked exclusively or a section reserved for your team (usually 20 minimum).
Among the most spectacular is Marriott Melbourne Docklands with its sweeping 180 degree views across Docklands, South Melbourne and the western end of the CBD and its heated outdoor infinity rooftop pool.
Rooftop at QT in Melbourne can host up to 185 guests with views across the city from its position on Russell Street.
On Lonsdale Street, what used to be the Greek venue Melina has become FABLE, with rooftop space 13 floors up offering cocktails and a Mediterranean fare with a New York-style view.
Nearby Sheraton Melbourne on Little Collins Street has its Terrace Bar overlooking the Paris end of the city.
Not all the rooftop spaces are modern. The historic Melbourne Steamship Company on King Street has State of Grace which has an industrial feel, a relaxed menu and is a popular cocktail haunt accepting bookings for 10-20 people.
Crown Metropol in Southbank has a Level 17 lounge with an open fireplace inside and an open air balcony that offers a spectacular perspective on Melbourne’s Yarra River.
Beyond the CBD you’ll also find inner suburban rooftop event spaces that are restaurants, bars or hotels with views to the city from South Melbourne, St Kilda, Fitzroy, Carlton, Richmond and South Yarra.
Perhaps the most spectacularly different venue with a view is Easey’s on Easey Street in Collingwood, which has three professionally-graffitied train carriages perched five storeys up on its roof. This is a burgers and beverages casual eatery but spaces can be booked for a group. This venue also offers a range of inside meeting spaces and a co-working space.