Even our love of a good challenge was put to the test when we were first invited to assess the existing conditions on this site. The buildings appeared unfinished, and our inspection uncovered severe waterproofing failures and a host of other unexpected defects in the most unlikely of places.

​That said, we were thrilled to collaborate once again with one of our longstanding favourite clients. With a collective deep breath, the team set to work transforming a neglected and incomplete hotel and residential complex into a warm, inviting space where guests are encouraged to linger and connect in the public areas.

One of the standout design features on the entrance level is the arched, exposed aggregate ceiling. Initially it looked stark and out of place, but through the introduction of elegant perimeter bulkheads and thoughtfully placed ceiling lighting, what was once a design eyesore has become an architectural highlight. It’s both captivating and memorable!

​The landscaping posed its own set of challenges, with the external areas feeling harsh and unforgiving. The solution? Trees—plenty of them. Thankfully, both we and our client share a passion for planting, and this became an opportunity to define various areas through sculptural planting boxes and lush greenery. The result is a space we’re genuinely proud of—an oasis of calm that now feels rooted, alive, and utterly transformed.