We specifically needed to be near Brunswick and it was hard to find an economical hotel. When I saw the hotel (location on a busy corner and looking very dated) my heart sank. But then we went to the double room - at the rear, in the new section of the hotel - we were pleasantly surprised. Newly refurbished in relaxing neutral tones, very clean lovely bathroom. Comfy bed and spacious. No lift (poor hubby always has to haul our luggage). Free parking on site was a big plus. Next to no traffic noise for our room at the back, but this may not be the same for all rooms. Not sure if the older part of the hotel would be as good, because it is right on the actual intersection.

Stayed here during Australia Day long weekend. Accommodation close to CBD was at an extravagent premium and hard to find. The rack rate at this hotel was reasonable compared with most other hotels nearby.

The hotel is undergoing refurbishments, however some features betray its age. There are no lifts/elevators, so if you have a lot of luggage and staying on one of the upper floors it can present a challenge (hotel reception does offer to help, though). There are no swimming pools, gymnasiums, bars or restaurants to be found at the hotel either, but considering what Melbourne, particularly nearby Carlton and Brunswick, has to offer, such omissions are not a concern.

My wife and I stayed 2 nights in a studio apartment, The kitchen is well appointed (but no dishwasher) and the beds surprisingly comfortable. New split system inverter air conditioners have been installed and are very effective. The bathroom, despite renovations, looks dated, however is clean and functional. The rooms have 3 beds (1 queen and 2 single) so are well suited to young families.

If you're visiting Melbourne off-peak, you probably could do better than stay here, but if staying during peak periods you could do a whole lot worse.

Stayed 3 nights on a weekend with an adult daughter as a base while she moved.
No breakfast room meant we went walking each morning-on the otherhand a well equiped quite roomy kitchen would allow you to stay in ,if staying longer.
I was impressed with clean sheets,electric blankets,board and iron,heated towel rails, exhaust fan ,surface space and IT connection,and plenty of towels and good pillows.
As usual reading lamps could have been better. With windows closed and curtains pulled the noise of traffic was no big deal .Join the joggers in the Park over the road but don't look for anything outside the door-just concrete and pillars down the steps. It was roomy ,down the road from very good Bridies Pub bar food and on intersecting transport lines. Blah-yes-but clean with good use of space and for 2ce the money you could still do worse.
Oh, and they like signs!..turn on the fan...wash up...etc

Our apartment unit was a good size for 2 people, very clean and a good price. It was a symphony in beige, however, and a bit worn. There were significant renovations underway, but they didn't affect our stay. We had a lovely view of Princes Park outside our window. The hotel is on a very busy and noisy corner, quite a way from the CBD (walkable only for the very active and fit) but public transit is extremely close by.