Business
Q+A: new boutique hotel opens in Richmond
Published 4:46 PDT, Thu August 26, 2021
Last Updated: 12:36 PDT, Wed September 22, 2021
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Versante Hotel has recently opened in Richmond—the city’s only independent boutique hotel.
Boutique hotels typically have a smaller number of rooms and are known for their theming and style. Rates for each of the 100 rooms start at $249 per night. All rooms have a rainforest shower, and many also have a separate freestanding soaking tub.
The hotel is located near Bridgeport Canada Line station, and also offers a restaurant, a lounge and a bar, as well as bookable meeting and event rooms.
General manager David Curell answered some questions about what people can expect.
How long have planning and construction been going on?
Planning for Versante Hotel has been years in the making, but the hotel’s construction began in 2018.
What were the challenges of opening a new hotel during the pandemic?
Shipping delays and supply shortages have been our greatest challenge. Hospitality has suffered immensely and several hotels have been forced to close, restructure, and make changes to operating procedures; we feel fortunate to be opening during a time when recreational travel is safely starting to resume, and to have safety, cleanliness and flexibility built into our DNA.
What inspired the hotel’s design?
Versante Hotel’s interior design evokes the excitement of a Chinese night market with vibrant colours and bold, iconic furnishings. Designed by Vancouver-based CHIL Interior Design, Versante provides a visceral experience for guests from the moment they arrive. Striking shades of cardinal red, electric blue and emerald capture your attention, while iconic furnishings—like a handcrafted Chinoiserie rug by Andy Dixon, a charcoal sculpture of local topography by Marie Khouri, and a custom pink reception pod—invite guests in for deeper contemplation.
What sets Versante apart from other local hotels?
Opening as Richmond’s first and only independent luxury boutique hotel means that guests will experience all the services that can be enjoyed at a big-brand hotel within a stylish and intimate environment. The property’s vibrant design, luxury amenities, rooftop saltwater pool and jacuzzi, world-class dining venues and more will attract those in search of a personalized experience, while providing the convenience of being just moments from the airport.
For more information, visit versantehotel.com