We celebrate the rich tapestry of history that defines Russell House, intertwining the low-fi Victorian charm of its early days as a botanic pharmacy with the dynamic energy of the early 20th-century as Melbourne’s first broadcasting studio.

In the spirit of Portuguese styling, we honour the natural and tactile qualities of local materials—clay, water, and cobblestones—embracing the beauty found in imperfection. This philosophy informs every aspect of the design, where texture and authenticity play pivotal roles.

Marmelo is a blend of natural light and generous visibility sitting harmonious within the Architectural canvas. The front bar serves as a communal gathering space, featuring a sweeping banquette that faces the marble bar, illuminated by a sculptural gantry. As guests pass the host station, they enter the main dining area that showcases a bespoke wood fired oven and a glass wine room. Here, banquettes upholstered in Schumacher’s Epingle fabric wrap the space, its loop pile adding depth and durability amidst an array of handcrafted tiles and original artwork by Lucy Rolef and Ben Mazey.

After descending the iconic chartreuse central staircase, Mr Mills unfolds below into two distinct zones, infused with the rhythmic vitality of Portuguese performance and dance culture. The bar area features a playful interplay of light, while the semi-private dining room offers a textural revolution through the juxtaposition of mirror, heavyweight velvet, and timber.

The lounge itself is a canvas for creativity, showcasing works by Nick Thomm and Dion Horstman, while a fully private dining experience awaits guests after journeying down a corridor hand painted by Niqui Toldi. Sensitive lighting, designed by Melbourne's South Drawn, transitions the ambiance from day to night, complemented by the sculptural elegance of the Plisse table lamp by Folkform. Plush carpets and London Art's Murghese Horses wallcovering further enrich the experience, ensuring that every moment spent at Mr Mills is steeped in a story worth telling.

In crafting Marmelo and Mr Mills, we have created a space that resonates with history, vibrancy, and community—a place where the past and present collide, inviting guests to share in the rich narrative of Russell House.