Contents
StoriesarePowerful.
Whether traveling for business or pleasure, hospitality spaces are meant to evoke an emotional response. Each carefully orchestrated moment contributes to the quality of the guest experience.
At CHIL Interior Design, we believe every brand and location has a unique story to tell through the experiences they offer.
We believe in the power of storytelling through design to communicate what inspires, drives, and excites people.
ENVISIONING EXPERIENCES
In demand hotels capture the unique character of a neighbourhood. With a keen eye for the local context and deep knowledge of current and future trends, we explore our clients’ visions to bring them to life. Synergies across our international teams allow us to blend a boutique approach with global sensibilities and resources to design elevated hospitality experiences.
We translate each clients’ story into physical spaces that embody memorable experiences.
SUBLIME ADVENTURING
Moments that leave an indelible mark mean earned patronage for your brand. We marry the essence of a brand and location with an eye for detail. At CHIL, we design spaces that speak to the art of life, the thrill of the journey, the pinnacle of luxury, and the gratification that comes from a notable stay.
Our design teams have created iconic environments for leading hotels, resorts, and mixed-use developments across the globe.
ItwithstartsPeople
Hospitality offers an everchanging landscape with endless opportunities to inspire people.
whatWeseeyousee
WHO’S ON THE GO?
Proud Singles
The number of singles of all ages is growing rapidly globally. With commitments moving beyond getting married, buying a house and having kids, singles are seeing the solo lifestyle as the key to flexibility, freedom, affluence and empowerment.
The Hyperinfluencer
With nearly three times as many internet users than the US, China‘s digital key opinion leaders (KOLs) have the power to make or break brands, turning collaborations into massive sales or destroying reputations.
Gen Z
Outnumbering millennials in 2019, Gen Zers will be seeking sociallyconscious destinations that are off the beaten track and relatively inexpensive. Providers offering affordable accommodation at remote locations with solid Instagrammability will be geared up for this growing generation of tourists.
Wanderluxe
Unique experiences are defining luxury in travel and the more mysterious, the better. In a world where travellers are yearning to do more than chase the perfect selfie at the latest hot Instagrammable spot, secret locations are becoming the newest indulgence in luxury travel. From surprise daily activities, to secret destinations, mystique is the new luxury.
DESIGNING FOR THE FUTURE
Designing Without Bias
Great hospitality is grounded in providing a genuine and authentic welcome experience for every guest. Designers are listening and learning - and are inspired to find new ways to accommodate and be inclusive to all in the spirit of current social engagement.
Time of Disruption
Design shapes the response to disruptions. Traditional standards of cleanliness and safety are being challenged and informing new ways of designing and planning hotel spaces. New approaches are evolving to both guestrooms and shared spaces - ones that balance the luxury of personal service and the necessity of guests’ personal safety.
Living Green
Environmental concerns and the popularity of eco-friendly practices continue to increase. Being sustainable is no longer a buzz-word and is now a quality the new generation of travelers are looking for in their stays. From using recycled materials, to efficient space planning to lower carbon footprint, designing the future means meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Our Designers
Designers
Q: What is your greatest fear?
A: Water over my head and no land in sight. This sometimes enters my dreams when I am very busy.
Q: What is it that you most dislike?
A: People who lie and advance their own cause by dismissing or belittling others.
Q: What do you most value in your friends?
A: Loyalty and continuity. One of my oldest friends I met in grade school.
Q: What inspires you?
A: I am inspired by good people and great hospitality design. Most guests will not remember the exterior design of a hotel but will remember and be inspired by beautiful interiors. The careful balance of a wellexecuted design combined with the careful
Paul Morissette
“
Senior Principal, Global Lead
What is your favourite journey?
I toured Europe by rail and thumb in the 70’s. It was a fantastic trip of over six months where I was exposed to so many distinct cultures with a history of great and varied design.
consideration of guest needs elevates the guest experience providing comfort and respite, opportunities for casual as well as structured interaction, and moments of visual calm and drama.
Q: What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
A: Going to work, not enjoying it - and doing the exact thing day after day.
Q: If you weren’t a designer, what would you be doing?
A: The design industry is unique in that every project and every day present new and exciting opportunities. I feel very fortunate for the career that I have had in hospitality. I worked as an architect for 18 years designing new hotels in western Canada. I then had the opportunity to cross the table and work as Director of Design and Construction for Delta Hotels and then Fairmont hotels &
Resorts providing an entirely new outlook on how the hotel industry values and approaches design. After 6 years with the brands, I joined CHIL Interior Design and have led this talented boutique studio with Adèle for the past 16 years. Whatever else I might do – it will certainly involve hospitality.
Q: What is your most marked characteristic?
A: I am (outwardly) calm, and solution driven. This is partly by nature and mostly learned through four decades in the hospitality industry.
Q: What is your motto?
A: My motto is that there is no motto – each day presents new opportunities that require new and unique solutions.
“
Adèle Rankin
Principal, Global Design Lead
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Sunny late afternoon, good wine in hand, listening to my beautiful daughter telling me a story.
Q: What is your current state of mind?
A: Pretty content, mixed with a good amount of stress.
Q: What is your greatest fear?
A: I don’t like saying those things out loud – my only superstition.
Q: What is a lesson you learned from a project that you will never forget?
A: Don’t make a mistake your pay cheque can’t cover! Seriously though, think things through and prioritize the important aspects and don’t be precious about everything.
Q: Was there a particular moment of inspiration that changed your thinking about design?
A: Realizing that design is not about the designer but all about the end user and their experience.
Q: What is it that you most dislike?
A: Injustice and feeling out of control.
Q: What is your greatest extravagance?
A: Chai lattes too often.
Q: Are there any words of wisdom from one of your clients that have stuck with you?
A: When you point a finger at others be aware that there is always three now pointing back at you. Always think about your responsibility to solve a problem before casting blame.
Q: What do you most value in your friends?
A: Good humour and understanding.
Q: What is something a well-designed building can’t live without?
A: Atmosphere, soul and purpose.
Q: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
A: I would be more patient.
Q: If you weren’t a designer, what would you be doing?
A: This industry is in my blood, so I was never going to avoid this path… although is global spa-tester a thing?!
Q: What is your most marked characteristic?
A: I always carry nuts to snack on and I happily multi-task like a pro.
Where would you most like to live?
An ancient city like Rome for its great architecture & European lifestyle or an island like Okinawa which is very relaxing… very different I know.
When and where were you happiest?
Sandy Lu
Director of Hospitality Design
What is your design process?
I start thinking of a new concept constantly everywhere I go, scribbling as I brainstorm with our team. Often the best idea lands when I am in the shower for some reason.
Camping in our camper van, being in nature & away from the city and my phone
Which talent would you most like to have?
Photographic memory
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Karen Wong
Director of Practice
What is your motto?
‘Grass is not greener on the other side’—be thankful with what you have and appreciate the things around you. I recently heard this quote from Theodore Roosevelt and it resonated with me ‘Comparison is the Thief of Joy’ and it’s hitting hard with me right now.
“This too shall pass” and also, “You’re on mute”
Why interior design?
I love hospitality design because we create places that connect people and leave marks in their memories.
Q: A:
What are the proudest moments in your career?
I didn’t know this at the time but how significant it was to meet the legendary Karl Lagerfeld and knowing a small little firm in Vancouver/ HK was given this opportunity. I think I am just able to see the impact that project has had on my career and forever grateful I was given this chance. It proved that
hard work really pays off and let me realize that you never know what will happen in your life! This is a story to tell my grandkids!
Why interior design?
It’s the perfect marriage between being creative and analytical, using both left and right-side brain! I love being able to visualize something and
have it come to life. Also how rewarding it is to see someone enjoy being in a space that you have created is so fulfilling
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I wish I was more decisive and think less/ mull over things less.
Q:
A: Q:
A:
Design Director, Toronto
Why interior design?
The ideation and process of taking a blank piece of paper and transforming it into a built environment for people to enjoy, celebrate, heal or gather is not only rewarding but also makes me feel like I have contributed to our society’s well being.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Besides my 2 amazing children, running the Boston Marathon. I never was a true marathoner but loved every step of the way.
What is your most marked characteristic?
Well…when I applied for my passport
Stella Liao Bridget Bedard
and Passport Canada called all my references to verify my existencethey all described me with curly hair… so????
Q: A:
When and where were you happiest? Honestly, now.
Q: A:
What is your design process? Listen to the wants and the needs
of a project…client, look at your inspiration, create and then make sure that it addresses those fundamentals while transporting your guest to another era, feeling, or place.
Q: A:
What is your motto? If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.
Q: A: Q:
What is your motto?
In Chinese, we say “三個臭皮匠勝過一 個諸葛亮,” which means “Two heads are better than one.” I firmly believe that great work comes from strong teamwork. When we collaborate and combine our diverse skills, perspectives, and ideas, we achieve remarkable results that surpass what any individual could achieve alone.
Which living person do you most admire?
Design Director, Hong Kong
“
What is your most treasured possession?
People and memories! The most beautiful aspect of my job is the relationships I forge with individuals beyond the workplace and projects, and these connections often endure long after the project’s completion, sometimes lasting for years.
A:
Santiago Calatrava Valls has greatly influenced my thinking. His work reminds me that the solutions to our design challenges already exist in our surroundings; we just need to uncover them.
Q: A:
Where do you find inspiration? I begin by immersing myself in various materials to develop a comprehensive understanding of the project’s background. I highly recommend using the local language
to research as it grants access to a wider array of materials. My mind then transports me to different times, and I experience a range of emotions which uncovers a sense of belonging from both local and international perspectives. This fusion of research and innovative thinking helps me craft designs that resonate deeply with the project’s essence and connect with people on a profound level.
MERAK // SERBIAN
a feeling of bliss and the sense of oneness with the universe that comes from the simplest of delights. It’s the pursuit of small, daily pleasures that add up to a great sense of happiness and fulfillment
Experiences
Welcome
人情味 rén qíng wèi // CHINESE
Warmth, love, empathy, and hospitality to other humans
Invitation. The occasion of arrival. Heartfelt greetings. Relief upon the exquisite surrender of suitcases, responsibilities, and worries. Liberation. The undeniable allure of unexplored settings. A home away from home – but better.
THE DORIAN, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION
Calgary, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
MARRIOTT VANCOUVER AIRPORTMacau, China
PLEASANT BAY
Sanya, China
Osoyoos, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Calgary, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Calgary, Canada
SMACZNEGO // POLISH
Heartfelt wish for someone to enjoy their meal
Meet &&Mingle
Connections. Six degrees of separation. Dinner effortlessly drifting into late night cocktails. The shortest distance to friendship. Curiosity. Synchronicities. Insight. An exuberant toast. Playfully whiling the night away.
PROLOGUE
Vancouver, Canada
PIE R SQUARED AT UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIATHE BEAR, THE FISH, THE ROOT & THE BERRY
Osoyoos, Canada
75 WEST COAST GRILL
Vancouver, Canada
CHUNFENG
Leishan, China PRIMUS HOTEL SANYA PLEASANT BAYANGSANA & DHAWA HOTEL
Leishan, China
ANGELA’S CAFÉ AND LOUNGE
Macau, ChinaSaskatoon, Canada
ANGSANA & DHAWA HOTEL Leishan, China AROMA RESTOBARFocus
Sobirat’sya s muslyami // RUSSIAN
Collect, gather thoughts to make up one’s mind
Execution. In the zone. The privacy of a cozy nook. Alone together in an animated space. Plugged in. Amped up. Productivity punctuated with moments of inspiration. Gratification: mission accomplished.
Calgary, Canada
GRAND BARONY HOTEL Jinan, China DELTA MARKHAMVancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
ANGSANA & DHAWA HOTEL Leishan, China FAIRMONT VANCOUVER AIRPORTCalgary, Canada
金継ぎ KINTSUGI // JAPANESE
The Japanese art of mending the areas of breakage in pottery with gold to create an even stronger, more beautiful piece of art
Respite. Cozy nest of dreams. Toes dipping, gingerly, into a warm bath. Tension melting. A freeing. Comfy slippers and crisp matching robe against bare skin. A snug nest. Deep breaths. Gentle softening. A bright new day.
Macau, China
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada
Canada
HILTON TORONTO Toronto,VANCOUVER
Vancouver, Canada
FAIRMONT HOTELLAURIER
Ottawa, Canada
Ottawa, Canada
FAIRMONT CHÂTEAU LAURIERPRIMUS HOTEL
PLEASANT BAY
Sanya, China
Calgary, Canada
HYATT REGENCY
Vancouver, Canada
Richmond, Canada
MARRIOTT VANCOUVER AIRPORTFOUR SEASONS RESIDENCES
Whistler, Canada
Avlékété,
BANYAN TREE HOTELMERIGGIARE // ITALIAN
The act of being in rest, outdoors and in a shady place, during the warm hours of midday
Rejuvenation. Food for the soul. An intense workout – difficult, but oh, the endorphin rush. A meticulous manicure and a soothing massage – ready for anything. The best of both worlds at your fingertips. Bliss.
Revitalize
Macau, China
HOLLYBRIDGE AT RIVERGREEN Richmond, Canada THE KARL LAGERFELD HOTELVANCOUVER
Vancouver, Canada
BANYAN TREE HOTEL Avlékété, Benin FAIRMONT HOTELToronto, Canada
SHANGRI-LA TORONTO MIRAJ HAMMAM SPAExplore
JOSTOJOO // FARSI
Forever devoted to seeking and searching with curiosity
Adventure. Transformational experiences. A once-in-a-lifetime voyage. Eyes wide. Heart open. Discovery. Inner journeys and earthly expeditions. A restored sense of self. The world will never look the same again.
The Karl Lagerfeld Hotel
MACAU, CHINA
Known as Karl Lagerfeld’s only hotel masterwork in the world, the distinctive THE KARL LAGERFELD MACAU reflects the namesake designer’s unrivaled creative visions, offering an immersive experience of his striking design and an aspirational, cutting-edge approach to style.
FairmontVancouverHotel
VANCOUVER, CANADA
The interior design concept for the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver celebrates the historical significance of this prominent hotel while selectively updating elements within to their original grandeur.
FairmontLaurierChâteau
OTTAWA, CANADA
Inspiration was drawn from iconic Canadian visionaries to create a design for the hotel that is as bold and unforgettable as the icons themselves. Bringing the suite into the new century, streamlined and unexpected modern elements are incorporated, perfectly balancing the line of historic and urban nature of the city.
The Dorian, Autograph Collection
CALGARY, CANADA
Inspired by Oscar Wilde’s sharp wit and ability to surprise, whimsical and playfully designed features peppered throughout the hotel. Unique details and one of a kind furniture pieces are found at every turn, teasing guests with creativity and ‘Aha!’ moments to discover. The saturated colour palette is equally hip and restrained. European sophistication combines with the region’s beautiful geography to create a richly layered environment that embodies a new and modern sense of Wild(e).
Versante Hotel
RICHMOND, CANADA
Versante Hotel is a new boutique hotel that celebrates everything the social media community has to offer. Guestrooms and suites are divided up into 5 unique schemes that speak to the individual personalities we celebrate within the online community: the Creative, the Wanderer, the Active, the Social, and the Individual. The entire hotel, from public areas to guestrooms, is infused with bright colours, elaborate patterns, bold stones, bright reflective materials that all speak to and celebrate that main statement of you have arrived.
Hotel Belmont M Gallery
VANCOUVER, CANADA
Hotel Belmont is a boutique property that re-envisions the traditional hotel model in Vancouver, enhancing the value of the building through an innovative and locally inspired approach to design and development. CHIL’s design is engaging, vibrant and unique. Along with the many hotel perks, the interior design makes staying at the Hotel Belmont a timeless, immersive experience.
Primus Hotel Sanya P leasant Bay
SANYA, CHINA
Situated in the beautiful Yuelan Bay with a mountain backdrop, the Primus Hotel Sanya Pleasant Bay provides modern travellers a peaceful and relaxing retreat away from the hustle and bustle on Hainan Island, also known as the Eastern Hawaii.
Details
MoreCHILAbout
CHIL STUDIOS
AMERICAS
VANCOUVER
1706 West 1st Avenue, Suite 400, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6J 0E4
T +1 604 685 9913
F +1 604 685 0694
B+H STUDIOS
AMERICAS
VANCOUVER
1706 West 1st Avenue, Suite 400, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6J 0E4
T +1 604 685 9913
F +1 604 685 0694
TORONTO
320 Bay Street, Suite 200, Toronto, ON, Canada, M5H 4A6
T +1 416 596 2299
F +1 416 586 0599
SEATTLE
920 5th Avenue, Suite 600, Seattle, WA, USA 98104
T +1 206 582 2875
F +1 206 260 3900
TORONTO
320 Bay Street, Suite 200, Toronto, ON, Canada, M5H 4A6
T +1 416 596 2299
F +1 416 586 0599
ASIA
HONG KONG
Units 3601-03, 36/F, AIA Tower, 183 Electric Road, North Point, Hong Kong
T +852 3158 2123
ASIA
HONG KONG
Units 3601-03, 36/F, AIA Tower, 183 Electric Road, North Point, Hong Kong
T +852 3158 2123
SHANGHAI
19F, Crystal Tower No.68, Yuyuan Road Shanghai 200040 China
T +86 21 3360 7861
F +86 21 3360 7862
MIDDLE EAST
DUBAI
4th Floor, Office 413 Ibn Batuta Gate Offices P.O. Box 488227
Dubai
United Arab Emirates
T: +971 4 4471866
F: +971 4 4471865
ACCOLADES
2024
CHIL ranked #32 on Interior Design Magazine’s “Top 200 Hospitality Giants” list
The Dorian, Autograph Collection
2024 IDIBC Awards - Award of Merit
THE KARL LAGERFELD HOTEL
2024 Forbes Travel Guide - 5 Star Award
The Spa at THE KARL LAGERFELD HOTEL
2024 Forbes Travel Guide - 5 Star Award
Fairmont Pacific Rim
2024 Forbes Travel Guide - 5 Star Award
U.S. News & World Report #2 Best Hotel in Canada 2024
Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Pacific Rim
2024 Forbes Travel Guide - 5 Star Award
Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver
2024 Forbes Travel Guide - 5 Star Award
U.S. News & World Report #6 Best Hotel in Canada 2024
Shangri-La Hotel Toronto
2024 Forbes Travel Guide - 5 Star Award
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
2024 Forbes Travel Guide - 4 Star Award
2024 Condé Nast Traveler’s The Gold List
Four Seasons Residences Whistler
HD Awards 2024 Finalist Branded Residences
2024 Forbes Travel Guide - 4 Star Award
U.S. News & World Report #1 Best Resort in Canada 2024
U.S. News & World Report #4 Best Hotel in Canada 2024
2023
CHIL ranked #29 on Interior Design Magazine’s “Top 200 Hospitality Giants” list
NEWH 2024 Top ID Hospitality Firms (Vancouver Chapter)
NEWH 2024 Top ID Hospitality Firms (Toronto Chapter)
THE KARL LAGERFELD HOTEL
SBID Awards Overall Design Winner
SBID Awards the Hotel Public Space
Design Winner
SBID Awards the Hotel Bedroom & Suites
Design Finalist
IDA Hospitality Interior Designer Of The Year - Bronze
The Dorian, Autograph Collection
SBID Awards the Hotel Bedroom & Suites
Design Finalist
SBID Awards the Hotel Public Space
Design Finalist
AWMAC’s Architectural Woodwork Design Award of Excellence
Prologue
2023 Restaurant & Bar Design Awards
Shortlist
SBID Awards Restaurant Design Finalist
The Wilde
SBID Awards Restaurant Design Finalist
2023 Best of Year Awards Hotel Dining Finalist
Versante Hotel
SBID Awards the Hotel Bedroom & Suites
Design Finalist
Mesa by José Avillez
2023 Gold Key Awards for Excellence in Hospitality Design
SBID Awards Restaurant Design Finalist
Lisboeta Macau
SBID Awards Restaurant Design Finalist
IDA Hospitality Interior Design/ Restaurant Honorable Mention
Fairmont Vancouver Airport
SKYTRAX World’s Best Airport Hotels #3
SKYTRAX North America’s Best Airport Hotels #1
Delta Calgary Airport
AWMAC’s Architectural Woodwork Design Award of Excellence
Fairmont Pacific Rim
2023 Forbes Travel Guide - 5 Star Award
Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Pacific Rim
2023 Forbes Travel Guide - 5 Star Award
Shangri-La Hotel Toronto
2023 Forbes Travel Guide - 5 Star Award
Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver
2023 Forbes Travel Guide - 5 Star Award
CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver
2023 Forbes Travel Guide - 4 Star Award
Fairmont Waterfront
2023 Forbes Travel Guide - 4 Star Award
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
2023 Forbes Travel Guide - 4 Star Award
Fairmont Château Laurier
2023 Ottawa Awards - Best Hotel
2022
CHIL ranked #29 on Interior Design Magazine’s “Top 200 Hospitality Giants” list
CHIL ranked #23 on Interior Design Magazine’s “Rising Giants” list
NEWH 2023 Top ID Hospitality Firms (Vancouver Chapter)
NEWH 2023 Top ID Hospitality Firms (Toronto Chapter)
Greenland Primus Resort Sanya
2022 Luxury Lifestyle Awards - Best Luxury Hotel Interior Design
Fairmont Château Laurier
SBID Awards Hotel Bedroom & Suites Design Finalist
Chloe Kerrisdale
SBID Awards Hotel Show Flats & Developments Design Finalist
Hotel Belmont M Gallery
2022 IDIBC Awards - Award of Merit
Stock & Supply
2022 IDIBC Awards - Award of Merit
Prova Bar & Kitchen
2022 IDIBC Awards - Award of Merit
Fairmont Vancouver Airport
SKYTRAX World’s Best Airport Hotels #5
SKYTRAX North America’s Best Airport Hotels #1
Fairmont Pacific Rim
U.S. News & World Report #3 Best Hotel in