Historical Design
The Chateau Laurier is a historic luxury hotel located in the political and cultural heart of downtown Ottawa overlooking the Rideau Canal. Opened in 1912, this national landmark follows the architectural tradition of other grand Canadian railway hotels. With ornate interior detailing and preserved historic grandeur, the building reflects classic Canadian heritage luxury, and has attracted many dignitaries, celebrities, and politicians throughout the decades. The unique positioning of the building across from Parliament Hill offers a distinct presence unlike any other building in the country.
A Love Story
The project was inspired by the unconventional love story of Zoe Lafontaine and Sir Wilfrid Laurier. The couple met in 1861 when Zoe was teaching piano at a boarding house in Montreal. At the last moment, Wilfrid disrupted Zoe’s planned wedding by confessing his love, leading the two to marry that very night at Montreal’s cathedral. Their unexpected love story marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership—spanning 50 years of marriage and 37 years of influential political and community service that helped shape Canada.
As the longest serving first Lady of Canada, Zoe was known for her steadfast support for her husband’s career, as well as her dedication to her community. The two characters of this love story are personified in the elegant lightness of the dining room counterbalanced by the pensive, masculine lounge space.
As unexpected as the love story itself, the project strives to showcase Lady Zoe’s audacious, avante garde approach to hospitality within this timeless setting.
Stand-Out Elements
The dining room features a soft, monochromatic palette, with delicate rose and lilac hues woven throughout the space in unexpected, tactile ways—glazed tiles, violet marble, custom bar millwork, and botanical wallpaper and upholstery all contribute to its unique character. Elegantly crafted, the space showcases bespoke lighting and millwork, with fixtures inspired by the intricate artistry of fine jewelry. Thoughtful details, such as brass chair handles, rail accents, tailored piping, and ruched cushions—add a graceful, refined touch. Reflective surfaces like mirrors, glazed tiles, and polished marble enhance the room’s sense of lightness and airiness, creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere.
In contrast to the dining room’s soft, muted tones, the lounge embraces a bold and opulent aesthetic, defined by rich jewel tones and subtly patterned upholstery. The result is a luxurious, layered ambiance that feels both intimate and indulgent. A mix of seating styles and thoughtfully designed niches foster a sense of privacy and relaxed gathering throughout the space. At its heart, a striking central bar—framed by a mirrored shelving valance—acts as a vibrant focal point, setting the stage for the unveiling of signature cocktails and energizing the room. A modern fireplace with dramatic stone veining serves as a warm and compelling centerpiece in the upper lounge, juxtaposing beautifully with the preserved historic mouldings and paneling to create a dynamic blend of old and new.
Noteworthy Challenges
This project presented the unique challenge of honoring the space’s preserved historical elements, such as original mouldings and paneling, while seamlessly integrating contemporary design features. The constraints of the heritage building added complexity to the introduction of new mechanical, electrical, and structural systems, requiring thoughtful and inventive solutions. True to the spirit of Zoë Laurier, the final design pays respectful homage to the building’s storied past while confidently embracing a fresh, modern vision.
Another key challenge lay in crafting two distinct yet interconnected environments: the dining room and the lounge. Each space was designed with its own character and atmosphere, yet they come together to create a cohesive, fluid guest experience. Carefully preserved architectural details, rich textures, and a harmonious material palette form a timeless backdrop, allowing bold design statements to shine and offering moments of discovery as guests move throughout the space.
Final Impression
The completed spaces tell a story of romance and refinement, where timeless elegance is infused with bold, unexpected moments. With a thoughtful balance of heritage and innovation, the design both honors the past and delivers a striking, contemporary dining experience that is as memorable as it is sophisticated.