Halifax Muir Hotel – Halifax’s Mind, Body & Soul

“Muir’s intent is to offer guests an authentic connection to this region and its people while providing an indelible sense of place.”

 

Designed by celebrated Nova Scotian architecture practice MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects, with interiors conceived by award-winning Canadian designer Alessandro Munge of Studio Munge, Muir follows a distinctly local narrative inspired by the materiality of Nova Scotia. Featuring an honest and rooted design, this style removes unnecessary flourishes, creating a purposefully understated and modern aesthetic that expresses the culture and history of the region. It is a nuanced luxury of craft and substance. Honest materials also nod respectfully to the past while looking forward to the future. Scott Armour McCrea adds that “bringing to life a concept that is so intrinsically tied to a place is extremely meaningful. Muir is an example of ‘Born of this Place’ design ­­– honouring character, materiality and heritage through the art of place-making. Throughout the property, the forms portray a contemporary marine, wharf-like design while materiality makes a connection to place – from local materials, including salt-and-pepper granite and sandstone, to Muntz metal, a copper alloy prominently used in shipbuilding. Together, these elements provide an indelible sense of place, resulting in a design that simply could not exist anywhere else.”

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From the sourcing of the building construction materials to the fabrication techniques of the custom furnishings, Muir’s team have sought to achieve the highest standard of quality while minimizing environmental impact. “Throughout Muir, custom furniture and lighting, designed and crafted in Canada, reflect a modern interpretation of East Coast design. Rooms and suites are richly textured with curved white oak walls and plank flooring – a subtle nod to ocean voyages. On each bed, is a Muir tartan throw – a contemporary expression of Nova Scotia tradition featuring a modernized tartan pattern using Muir’s muted tones. Gathering spaces are anchored by soft cove lighting and lively fireplaces. Statement pieces from local artists are proudly displayed throughout Muir, including commissioned landscape paintings, sculptures, photography, ceramics and tapestries.  The overall aesthetic is contemporary, warm and welcoming.” Indeed, each of the hotel’s rooms and suites showcases an original Nova Scotia landscape painting that was commissioned purposefully for Muir and invited guests to get to know Nova Scotia through art. “We worked with local galleries to select artists and commission paintings that tell the story of Nova Scotia, through the eyes of its artists.  It’s not possible to pick a favourite – what is compelling though, is how all pieces work collectively together to tell the story of the diverse landscapes of this region.” The restaurant called ‘Drift’ draws on local, seasonal ingredients to create modern, contemporary interpretations of traditional Atlantic Canadian recipes. From early morning breakfast to an evening nightcap, Drift is a culinary destination where guests and locals connect. The ambience at Drift welcomes guests to linger, lounge by the fire and taste the latest Nova Scotia vintage. A ‘secret’ speakeasy provides an exclusive ‘guests only’ experience complete with a breathtaking waterfront terrace and a collection of modern cocktails with a lineage that nods to the area’s rum-running past.