The Dorian, Autograph Collection
CHIL Interior Design’s The Dorian in Calgary masterfully intertwines Oscar Wilde’s wit with 19th-century eclecticism, creating a vibrant, luxurious hotel that embodies the city’s independent spirit and hospitality.
Located in downtown Calgary, the latest addition to Marriott’s Autograph Collection is an ode to Oscar Wilde.
A women-led team of designers and developers has forged a new destination in the city’s core. Developed and owned by PBA Group and designed by award-winning studio CHIL Interior Design, The Dorian marks the arrival of Marriott’s premium Autograph Collection into Alberta’s largest city.
CHIL Interior Design has realized a unique vision for the 136-room hotel. The Dorian’s bespoke interiors carry forward the wit of author Oscar Wilde, along with the eclecticism and boldness of 19th-century-inspired design. A notable addition to CHIL’s extensive hospitality portfolio—which includes the Fairmont Chateau Laurier, Hotel Belmont, M Gallery, and Shangri-La Toronto—The Dorian offers an unparalleled hospitality experience across its guestrooms and suites, ground-level bar and café, rooftop restaurant, fitness space, and events hall.
The Dorian’s name references Wilde’s iconic 1891 novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray. Throughout the hotel, eclectic material and colour choices evoke the interiors and fashions of Wilde’s era, paired with his hallmark eccentricity and biting wit. Contrasting materials, bold colours, and reinterpretations of traditional patterns such as tartans, houndstooths, and tweeds create an experience that is richly layered, defined by contrasts, and underlined with a recurring sense of surprise.
As a significant investment in downtown Calgary’s role as a hospitality destination, The Dorian channels the city’s independent spirit. Rather than relying on clichés, its unapologetic design captures downtown Calgary’s bold, directional energy.
The lobby showcases CHIL’s ability to interpret the hotel’s connection to Wilde. A shattered mirror installation references a pivotal moment in The Picture of Dorian Gray. The theme of shattering continues through the tiled flooring and the check-in desk, an angular block of faceted brass. Brass recurs throughout the hotel, grounding the interiors in historic character and evoking the era of Wilde. Similarly, the Victorian era’s love of saturated colours and bold patterns is reflected in contrasts of marble, dark woods, and floor-to-ceiling floral wallpaper.
In the guestrooms, custom wallcoverings match upholstered chairs and sofas, reflecting the flair and whimsy of 19th-century interiors. Understated brass accents and leather headboards balance the boldness. Suites feature independent sitting rooms with hardwood floors, custom-upholstered sofas, and unique artwork. Smart technology, such as sensor lights on nightstands and bathroom counters, reflects The Dorian’s elevated experience and attention to detail.
The 3,345-sq-ft ballroom, executive boardroom, and prefunction areas extend the design language. Brass inlays and ceiling coves establish continuity with other interior spaces, while custom Axminster carpeting brings richness to both conference and event spaces.
Design: CHIL Interior Design
Architect: GGA-Architecture
Contractor: EllisDon
Photography: Eymeric Widling
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