Mondrian GOLD COAST An F&B offering designed to appeal to both locals and travellers is at the heart of Queensland’s most anticipated new opening. Words: Lauren Ho Photography: © Alicia Taylor (unless otherwise stated)
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n Queensland’s sun-drenched southern shore, the Gold Coast has long been known for its surf and laidback beach culture. Now, the famously breezy
spirit of Burleigh Heads has been elevated, thanks to the arrival of Mondrian Gold Coast. The debut of the brand Down Under, and the latest in a global portfolio known for its culture-led, design-forward approach, the hotel is redefining beachside luxury, in particular with its buzzing restaurants and bars. Far from being an afterthought, the F&B forms the experiential backbone of the property, its design vision led by Sydney-based studio, Alexander & Co, whose founder Jeremy Bull took the brief – to put Burleigh “in high heels and a frock” – and ran with it. “We took that to mean giving it all the vitality of Burleigh Pavilion, yet in grown-up way,” says Bull. The result is a series of venues that feel tactile and expressive, drawing guests into a rich architectural narrative, where coastal modernism is tinged with Mediterranean sensuality, Mid-Century forms and a sense of playfulness. At ground level, LiTO establishes the mood. Conceived as a lively all-day venue that transitions seamlessly from morning espressos to evening negronis, it channels the feel of a lighthearted hub, its folding glass doors allowing light and air to flow through the sweeping architecture of concrete walls and dendriform columns that fan upwards to a lofty ceiling.
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