The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne.

The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne reimagines the luxury skyscraper by making altitude its primary design language. Occupying the top levels of a central CBD tower, it claims the title of Australia’s tallest hotel, a feat that begins with a "sky lobby" check-in on the 80th floor. The 257 rooms swap traditional grand hotel tropes for a residential aesthetic, though the floor-to-ceiling views of Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges remain the focal point. On Level 64, the wellness floor houses a panoramic infinity pool and a spa designed to keep the skyline in sight. Dining is equally theatrical: Atria focuses on hyper-local Victorian produce, while the cocktail bar, Cameo, skips the standard spirits list in favor of rare, vintage bottles for a more curated drinking experience.