The Celestial Hotel and Snow & Saree Retail
Overview
Boutique Hotel & Retail Store – The Post Office (John D. Higinbotham Building, 1913)
Located in the heart of downtown Lethbridge, this project reimagines the historic John D. Higinbotham Building (1913) as a boutique hotel and retail space, blending heritage preservation with modern design. The concept highlights the building’s original architectural elements—exposed brick, decorative moldings, and historic woodwork—while introducing contemporary materials and interior solutions to create a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. The boutique hotel offers a refined and intimate stay, featuring thoughtfully designed guest rooms, a welcoming lobby, and curated amenities. The retail space complements the hotel, providing a seamless experience that respects the building’s legacy while catering to modern clientele. With a strong focus on historical restoration, accessibility, and adaptive reuse, the design ensures compliance with Alberta Building Code and barrier-free requirements while allowing for future growth and leased spaces.

Programming Phase
Research about building:
The John D. Higinbotham Building, also known as The Federal Building or Post Office, is a historic landmark located at 706 – 4 Avenue South in downtown Lethbridge, Alberta. Constructed in 1912-13 and designed by Chief Architect David Ewart, the building occupies nine city lots at a prominent corner location. It served as a vital federal hub, housing key operations such as the Post Office, Customs and Excise, Immigration, Revenue, and other government offices, making it central to Lethbridge’s growth and development. Its Second Empire/Beaux-Arts architecture symbolized the dignity and prosperity of the era, reflecting in its design and functionality. The building also represents the evolution of postal services in the city, which grew alongside its population and economy. Despite a 1958 modern addition and subsequent renovations, the building remains a civic landmark, blending historical significance with architectural elegance and embodying the heritage of Lethbridge
Target Market:
- Age: Primarily 25–55 years old, with some younger guests (18- 24) for events and older guests (55+) for leisure stays.
- Occupation: Professionals, business travelers, tourists, and occasional leisure visitors.
- Ethnicity: Diverse, reflecting the multicultural makeup of Lethbridge.
- Economic Status: Middle to upper-middle class, ranging from moderate-income travelers to business executives and tourists seeking a higher- end stay.
- Income Bracket: $40,000-$120,000+ annually.
Space Analysis:


Concept Phase
The night sky has always been a source of wonder, with its twinkling stars and drifting clouds creating a sense of calm and mystery. Inspired by this celestial beauty, The Celestia Hotel offers a dreamy and immersive experience. Soft, star-like lights glow from the ceiling, while cloud-like textures add an airy, ethereal touch. Deep colors and reflective surfaces enhance the feeling of depth, making guests feel as if they are beneath a vast, starlit sky. This unique design creates a serene and elegant retreat, where the magic of the night surrounds every moment.

Material selection

Design Development and Renderings are coming Soon :)
"Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works, transforms, and inspires."
Address
1803, 15th avenue south, Lethbridge, AB.(T1K 0X1)
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