First Light brings the Nu by YOO brand to Australia for the first time, a $180 million hotel and branded-residence building at 28 Albert Road in South Melbourne, facing the Domain parklands and the Royal Botanic Gardens and steps from the new Anzac Station, a 26-story tower with 30 residences and 97 hotel keys that broke ground in October 2024 and is set to finish in Q2 2027.
Developed by DCF Property Group with interiors from YOO Studio, the design house founded by Philippe Starck and John Hitchcox, the project pairs 97 hotel rooms with 30 privately owned residences in two, three and four-bedroom configurations. Residence owners draw on the hotel's concierge, housekeeping and facilities, blurring the line between apartment and suite. Shared amenities include a restaurant and bar, a gymnasium and a pool, with YOO's signature layered, characterful interiors setting the building apart from the restrained glass towers typical of the precinct. The parkland outlook and immediate tram and rail links place it between the Melbourne CBD and the bayside suburbs.
Structure complete and finishing out for an October 2026 completion, with the 97-key Nu by YOO hotel opening shortly after, so the tower is now within months of delivery.
melbournebuildexpo.comDCF Property Group breaks ground on the $180M First Light project in Melbourne's Domain Precinct, with Ironside appointed builder.
hotel-online.comThe outlook for First Light
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Frequently asked
Where is First Light located?
First Light is located in Melbourne.
When will First Light be completed?
First Light is under construction, with completion expected in Q2 2027.
Who is developing First Light?
DCF Property Group is the developer behind First Light.
Who designed First Light?
First Light was designed by YOO Studio, with interiors by Léo Terrando, MILINSKI.
Who is building First Light?
First Light is being built by Ironside.