For Christian Price, general manager at Destination Pentridge, the best part of his day is checking guests in and out.
Hearing about their experience within the hotel and their reasons for travel has reminded him that he entered the hotel industry to make a positive change.
Destination Pentridge is comprised of two side-by-side hotels, Adina Apartment Hotel Pentridge and The Interlude. Both are located in Melbourne and were named Hotel of the Year at the 2024 Australasia-Pacific Hotel Design Awards.
He was drawn into his position after witnessing the redevelopment of the 170-year-old former Pentridge prison site into the Adina Hotel. This was one of the most significant bluestone restoration projects ever undertaken in Australia and one of 44 prison hotel conversions worldwide.
Christian Price, General Manager
"Without their substantial investments, these beautiful walls and buildings could've been demolished or be acquired privately and lost to the public," said Price.
"Instead, they now have a new lease of life for the next generation."
During this process, the rooms were converted from former prison cells and reclaimed and reused as hotel suites.
Due to the existing infrastructure, the conversion posed new challenges, one of which was air conditioning. Regular air conditioning services usually sit in the roof cavity, but due to the preexisting rubble that would stop prisoners from escaping, the air conditioning sits under the floor.
When asked about Price's top priorities for maintaining the hotel's high standards, he expressed interest in expanding its connection with the local community.
"The community is one of my passions," said Price.
"After living in Melbourne for 15 years, it is a big part of who I am."
Destination Pentridge's history and location have provided customers with a high-end, luxurious location with a unique edge over competitors. Inside the converted prison walls are the Olive Wine Bar, a 15-metre subterranean pool, and North & Common, a leading hatter restaurant.
Price has witnessed several rising trends within the hotel industry, including solo travellers, brand authenticity, and the value of experience.
In the future, he hopes to continue connecting with guests and overcoming obstacles the hotel industry might face. His passion for the Destination Pentridge's unique background and core values has continued to motivate him throughout his career.
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