Fairmont Empress Restoration Complete

The restoration’s final phase included:

 “We’ve taken a landmark building and restored the original architectural elements with modern, elegant touches.  It’s a fairy tale transformation and a milestone for this beautiful castle”, said Indu Brar, the hotel’s general manager.  “And, we’re ready for the world to see it.”

Fairmont Empress opened in 1908 and lured world travelers to the far flung destination of Vancouver Island.  The hotel hosted the likes of Winston Churchill, Bob Hope, and members of the Royal Family.  In 2014, Vancouver developer and philanthropist Nat Bosa and his wife, Flora, purchased the hotel and commenced the comprehensive two-phase renovation shortly thereafter.

 “When Flora and I bought the hotel, we had a vision of restoring this Grand Old Lady to her former glory.  True to my words at the time, this old mistress has given me some headaches, has cost me one hell of a lot of money, but is now beginning to bring us some pleasure,” said Nat Bosa.

Phase One of the  restoration launched in June 2016 with the grand opening of Q at the Empress -a bold new restaurant and bar.  Designed by Puccini Group, an internationally recognized hospitality firm, the venue reflects a modern sense of royalty with traditional coffered ceilings, quartzite bar, elegant furnishings and artwork featuring Queen Victoria.  The re-imagined Lobby Lounge—home of the world-renowned Tea at the Empress—reveals a modern Victorian parlour featuring a fresh colour palette inspired by the original Empress tea service china, whimsical artwork and textured furnishings alongside a beautiful central bar where evening cocktails are served.

Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) of San Francisco, one of the world’s leading hospitality interior design firm and notable designer of Raffles and St. Regis properties, oversaw the design of Fairmont Empress’ lobby, guest rooms and Fairmont Gold with a mandate to respect the architectural and historical integrity, and infuse a modern, upscale design inspired by the area’s natural beauty.

Fairmont Gold, with private concierge and check-in services, has expanded to 65 guestrooms and includes two new lounges and a spacious outdoor terrace that overlooks the inner harbour providing Victoria’s most impressive sunset view.  The addition of a Royal Suite—designed by Franc Ranieri of Kreel Creative Design—will captivate those looking for the ultimate in luxury.