Vanessa Chiasson never thought of Halifax as romantic, but Muir is changing that. Read her feature in Travel Awaits to find out how.
Muir, Autograph Collection, Announces Opening Date of December 10, 2021
Welcoming Travellers to Halifax with a Refined, Distinctly Nova Scotian Experience
Halifax, Nova Scotia – December 6, 2021 – Inspired by the enduring spirit, culture and character of Nova Scotia and its people, Muir, Autograph Collection, officially opens its doors on December 10, 2021. Located in the new Queen’s Marque district on the Halifax Waterfront in the absolute centre of downtown, Muir is the first hotel in Nova Scotia to join Autograph Collection Hotels, a curated collection of the world’s most distinctive independent hotels, hand-selected for their inherent craft and distinct perspectives on design and hospitality.
“We are delighted to announce our opening on December 10 and are ready to welcome guests to an elevated hospitality experience that is truly ‘Born of this Place’," said Eugénie Jason, General Manager, Muir, Autograph Collection.
Bold Architecture and Inspired Interiors
Envisioned, developed and operated by The Armour Group Limited, and designed by celebrated Nova Scotian firm MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects, Muir is a shining 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.
Muir’s interiors and furnishings are the work of internationally-recognized designer Alessandro Munge of Canada’s Studio Munge. Throughout the hotel, 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. Gathering spaces are anchored by soft cove lighting and lively fireplaces. Statement pieces from local artists are proudly displayed throughout the property, including commissioned landscape paintings, sculptures, photography, ceramics and tapestries.
Distinct Amenities and Experiences
Muir’s curated collection of amenities includes the ultra-premium wellness centre, Windward Wellness, where high-performance fitness equipment, vitality spa pool and halotherapy salt room encourage guests to rest and rejuvenate. Little Wing, a 36-foot Morris yacht and Reach, Muir’s high-speed motorboat, are available for guests to charter and explore the harbour and get a view of this much-loved city locals know best.
Elevated Cuisine and Cocktails
Inspired by this region’s natural bounty, Drift is a culinary love letter to Nova Scotia’s land, people and history. Featuring modern, elevated takes on classic Atlantic Canadian dishes, Drift’s culinary vision is driven by celebrated Canadian Chef Anthony Walsh and Chef de Cuisine Jamie MacAulay.
As distinct as Muir itself, Drift is thoughtfully designed for entertaining colleagues or quiet work at the spacious bar. The dining room is expansive yet comfortable, with detailed craftsmanship and premium materiality complemented by an outdoor patio with stunning waterfront views. Floor to ceiling marble fluted fireplaces, leather-wrapped walls, bespoke furnishings and soft lighting invite guests to linger and connect.
BKS, Muir’s secret speakeasy, is an enclave of curved wooden walls, muted marble and luxurious banquettes. Open to hotel guests and for private events, BKS offers a discreet setting for historically-inspired premium cocktails and unique small plates, which are best savoured on the harbourside private terrace with the most desirable views in the city.
Memorable Meetings and Gatherings
Muir offers one-of-kind settings for business events, celebrations and gatherings. In addition to conversation-starting art, the 1,200-square-foot True Colours Art Gallery offers a dramatic harbour-facing backdrop for exclusive gatherings. The Wardroom – complimentary for Muir guests – is a fully-appointed, private executive meeting space that can hold up to six guests. The Watch, embraced by the sea on three sides, is a 2,100-square-foot event space featuring bespoke furniture, an art collection, two private bars and a private tasting room.
The Heart of Halifax
Muir is part of the Queen’s Marque district, a cultural and community destination for locals and visitors to Atlantic Canada. The bustling district encompasses vibrant restaurants, shops, nightlife, offices and luxury residences, all set against a striking harbour backdrop.
“We are thrilled to announce the opening of Muir, a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience that represents a contemporary Nova Scotia,” said Scott Armour McCrea, CEO and President of The Armour Group.
From an impeccable waterfront location, carefully appointed rooms with thoughtful amenities, to Nova Scotian art, design and dining, Muir establishes an authentic “Sense of Place” that invites guests to forge a meaningful connection with the province and its people.
Autograph Collection Hotels is a member of Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International. Members enjoy exclusive benefits and a contactless experience with the Marriott Bonvoy Mobile app, achieve elite status recognition, earn points toward free nights, and redeem for hotel stays across Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 hotel brands.
To reserve or for more information, visit Muirhotel.com. Follow Muir on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn for updates in the lead-up to opening day.
-30-
About Muir, Autograph Collection
Inspired by the enduring spirit, culture and character of Nova Scotia, Muir, Autograph Collection will welcome guests to a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience. Located in the centre of downtown Halifax, within the new Queen’s Marque district, Muir offers unprecedented waterfront views and ocean access. Each of Muir’s 109 rooms promise comfort and serenity, and feature bespoke, made-in-Canada furniture and original Nova Scotia art. Muir’s amenities include elevated, regional dining; an ultra-premium wellness centre with high-performance fitness equipment, vitality spa pool and halotherapy salt room; access to the Muir yacht and motorboat; and a significant regionally curated art collection, including a private art gallery. Muir is a gracious host – a one-of-a-kind destination and a true cultural beacon for Halifax and beyond.
About Autograph Collection® Hotels
Autograph Collection Hotels advocates for the original, championing the individuality of each of its over 240 independent hotels located in the most desirable destinations across 41 countries and territories. Each hotel is a product of passion, inspired by a clear vision, soul, and story that makes it individual and special: Exactly Like Nothing Else. Hand-selected for their inherent craft and distinct perspectives on design and hospitality, Autograph Collection properties offer rich immersive moments that leave a lasting imprint. For more information, please visit www.autographhotels.com, and explore on social via Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to be inspired by immersive moments that are #ExactlyLikeNothingElse. Autograph Collection Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.
Hotel Intel: Muir makes waves on Halifax harbourfront
Rochelle Lash for The National Post
The new Muir hotel in Halifax embodies Atlantic appeal, with an elevated experience of marine-inspired decor and coastal cuisine in a singular setting at a historic port.
Canada's Ultimate Bespoke Hotel
Muir’s Architecture and Design Balances Tradition and Modernity - Connecting Guests to a Contemporary Nova Scotia
Opening December 10, Muir, an Autograph Collection hotel, will welcome guests to a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience. Muir is the cornerstone of Queen’s Marque, a new urban waterfront district in the absolute centre of downtown Halifax; inspired by the enduring spirit, culture and character of Nova Scotia.
“Striking a rare balance between tradition and modernity, Muir is the physical and spiritual manifestation of a modern Nova Scotia, connecting guests to this place and its people through the art of architecture and design,” said Scott Armour McCrea, president and CEO, The Armour Group.
Architecture: a tribute to Nova Scotian craftsmanship
Envisioned, developed and operated by The Armour Group, and designed by celebrated Nova Scotian architecture practice MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects, Muir is an example of 'Born of this Place' design, honouring character, materiality and heritage through the art of architecture. At Muir, MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects employ a deep understanding of local vernacular, modern, clean lines, and honest materiality to impart a clear and pure sense of Nova Scotia.
Throughout the property, forms portray a contemporary marine, wharf-like design. At Muir’s entrance, guests are welcomed by the “Light Chocks,” an architectural art installation featuring a pair of glowing columns incorporating abstract Fresnel lenses, similar to those used at the iconic Sambro lighthouse.
At Muir, materiality also makes a meaningful 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 and meaningful connection, resulting in a design that simply could not exist anywhere else.
"Muir simultaneously embodies a contemporary and historic spirit,” said Brian MacKay-Lyons, founding partner at MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects. “In form, it is one of three abstracted ships that comprise the Queen’s Marque development and is set perpendicular to a 330 ft. Wallace Sandstone building along Lower Water Street. In practice, the hotel has been designed with traditional elements such as a generous porte-cochère and hotel rooms reminiscent of the wood-lined ‘staterooms’ of an old luxury ocean liner."
Design: an inspiring East Coast aesthetic
Muir’s interiors and furnishings are the work of internationally recognized designer Alessandro Munge, founder and principal of Canada’s Studio Munge. 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 luxury ocean travel. Spa-like bathrooms are lined with granite and feature a separate wet room surrounded by frosted glass suggesting a subtle haze reminiscent of Halifax’s morning fog.
The collection of bespoke and contemporary furniture in each room includes a walnut floating worktable, walnut-framed bed(s) and a full-size bar reminiscent of luminous ship portholes. The warmth and tradition of Nova Scotia comes alive in the modern Muir tartan throw, commissioned for Muir and featured in every room. Designed for comfort and productivity, each room offers ideal workspaces for business travellers seeking the perfect balance between inspiring setting and practical necessities.
Gathering spaces are intimate and inviting with softly lit cove lighting warmed by lively fireplaces. Statement pieces from local artists appear throughout, including a handwoven tapestry depicting a spectacular Nova Scotia landscape by Allison Pinsent-Baker, which is proudly hung behind the reception desk.
“Muir celebrates the region's rich history, local artistry and skillful craftsmanship; expressed here in the authenticity, honesty and storytelling qualities of forms and materials,” said Alessandro Munge, founder and design director, Studio Munge. “We thoughtfully designed each bespoke detail and layer to embody the essence of Muir and deliver a most memorable experience where guests can appreciate Muir's profound sense of place. They'll discover what makes Nova Scotia and Halifax a destination like no other – a place of enduring spirit, resilience and gracious hospitality.
“Muir’s architecture and design weaves a spellbinding story of Nova Scotia – the Maritime foundation that the province is built on, the talent and hospitality of its craftspeople, and a breathtaking natural setting found nowhere else in the world. For more information about Muir, visit Muirhotel.com, or join the Muir community on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn to watch as developments unfold prior to opening.
About Muir, An Autograph Collection Hotel
Inspired by the enduring spirit, culture and character of Nova Scotia, Muir will welcome guests to a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience. Located in the absolute centre of downtown Halifax in the new Queen’s Marque district, Muir offers unprecedented waterfront views and ocean access. Each of Muir’s 109 rooms promise comfort, serenity and feature bespoke, made-in-Canada furniture and original Nova Scotia art. Muir’s amenities include elevated, regional dining; ultra-premium wellness centre with high-performance fitness equipment, vitality spa pool and halotherapy salt room; Muir yacht and motorboat; and a significant regionally-curated art collection, including a private art gallery. Muir is a gracious host, a one-of-a-kind destination and a true cultural beacon for Halifax and beyond. It is exactly like nothing else.
For more information, interviews or high-res images, please contact:
Erin O'Driscoll
tartanbond
647.232.6924
erin.odriscoll@tartanbond.com
Nicole Amiel
tartanbond
416.436.5185
nicole.amiel@tartanbond.com
Muir Paints a Picture of Nova Scotia with Extensive Local Artwork Collection and Private In-House Gallery
Halifax, NS – September 15, 2021 – Muir hotel will open this December on the Halifax waterfront at the vibrant new Queen’s Marque district in the absolute centre of downtown. Promising a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience, guests will see and sense this region reflected in the architecture, design, dining, experiences and in a significant, curated collection of local and global art that pays tribute to this region and its people.
Establishing a distinct sense of place, public art is showcased throughout the district and features prominently in Muir rooms, common areas and in True Colours, Muir’s in-house private gallery. True Colours will showcase a rotating collection of regionally curated art pieces and programming, inviting guests to connect deeply to this region and its artists. This intimate space, with a view of Halifax’s waterfront, is an ideal venue for intimate gatherings and events.
The growing collection features the creations of celebrated artists from around the world, including the work of over 30 Nova Scotian artists. Upon arrival at Muir, guests are greeted by “Convergence,” a dramatic 7ft sculpture made of glass and cast bronze, created by celebrated Maritime artist Peter Powning and by a stunning 6ft modern, handwoven tapestry from Lunenburg artist Allison Pinsent-Baker. Both pieces are inspired by the fields, forests and shorelines of Canada’s east coast.
Allison Pinsent-Baker's tapestry commissioned for the Muir hotel
Every guest room at Muir showcases an original Nova Scotia landscape painting – providing an invitation to discover this region through the eyes of its artists. Denise Lanterman, Gordon Macdonald and Sharon Wadsworth-Smith are just three of the 14 local painters whose work appears throughout Muir. Also, in each room is a ceramic vase created by Chester artist Sheri White.
Left: Ceramic vase created by Sheri White; Right: "Convergence" by Peter Powning
Photography, sculpture, art and architectural installations are found throughout the hotel and district - from the raw beauty of Nova Scotia as presented in Tim Forbes’ photography to the dramatic “Light Chocks,” a pair of glowing columns that frame the entrance to Muir’s porte-cochère. Designed by MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects and Heavy Industries, the Light Chocks incorporate abstract Fresnel lenses, similar to those used in the iconic Sambro Island lighthouse.
“While visiting Muir and Queen’s Marque, our guests and local community will feel a significant presence of art,” said Eugénie Jason, General Manager of the Muir hotel. “Together, the growing collection will inspire conversation and connection - to this province and its people.”
"Light Chocks", designed by MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects and Heavy Industries
Left: "Rocky Shore" by Sharon Wadsworth-Smith; Right: "The Sentinel" by Tim Forbes
For more information about Muir, visit Muirhotel.com, or join the Muir community on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn to watch as developments unfold prior to opening.
-30-
About Muir, An Autograph Collection Hotel
Inspired by the enduring spirit, culture and character of Nova Scotia, Muir will welcome guests to a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience. Located in the absolute centre of downtown Halifax in the new Queen’s Marque district, Muir offers unprecedented waterfront views and ocean access. Each of Muir’s 109 rooms promise comfort, serenity and feature bespoke, made-in-Canada furniture and original Nova Scotia art. Muir’s amenities include elevated, regional dining; ultra-premium wellness centre with high-performance fitness equipment, vitality spa pool and halotherapy salt room; Muir yacht and motorboat; and a significant regionally-curated art collection, including a private art gallery. Muir is a gracious host, a one-of-a-kind destination and a true cultural beacon for Halifax and beyond. It is exactly like nothing else.
Muir Hotel is more than just something new on the harbour
Read the Globe and Mail’s recent feature profiling Muir. Opening Fall 2021 on the vibrant Halifax waterfront, Muir looks forward to welcoming guests to a refined and distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Armour Group Limited announces expansion at Westway Park
June 29, 2020 (Halifax, NS) - The Armour Group Limited (“Armour”) has broken ground on Westway IV, the next phase of expansion at its Westway Park community in West Bedford. Responding to the strength of the Halifax market and the desirability of this expanding urban village in a suburban setting, Westway IV is already 20% leased with construction expected to be completed by Summer of 2022.
Westway IV will feature approximately 105,000 sq. ft. of Class AAA space in a 6-storey building located adjacent to the 102 highway, with views of the Bedford Basin. Unique to this amenity-rich building and to Halifax is an enclosed 2-storey winter garden – a living greenhouse with spaces for casual meetings, lunch breaks and other gatherings. The addition of this distinct feature provides flexible and creative spaces that support the modern work environment.
As with all buildings in the Westway Park community, Westway IV adheres to the ‘right to light’ philosophy. Buildings are designed to flood interior space with light and minimize energy consumption. Each building is strategically oriented to maximize solar heating in the winter and minimize summer heat gain in the summer, reducing operating costs.
Tenants can enjoy modern, light-filled office space, with Wi-Fi throughout, augmented by shared spaces for collaboration, dining, fitness and outdoor activity. Westway Campus offers the amenities and conveniences of a walkable urban-scaled office community - multiple restaurants, espresso café, grab-and-go bars, and an expansive fitness centre with dedicated spin room, and shower and locker facilities, in an easily accessible and highly desirable suburban community.
Westway Park is located off Innovation Drive and Hammonds Plains Road and is currently home to four buildings totaling over 350,000 sq. ft. Later this year, Halifax Regional Municipality will construct an expansive transit terminal and Park and Ride facility on a parcel of land directly adjacent to Westway Park. With the completion of this next phase of development, Westway Park will be one of largest single-office campuses in Atlantic Canada.
The Armour Group Limited’s future plans for this growing community include a further 600,000 sq. ft. of office space, two business-class hotels, residential offerings of contemporary townhomes and apartment buildings, and community retail space with a mix of food and beverage offerings. Upon completion, Westway Park will be a vital urban community offering opportunities to live, work and play within the middle of the rapidly growing western suburbs of Halifax.
-30-
The Armour Group Limited
The Armour Group Limited is a multi-dimensional investment firm. Our practice encompasses a variety of businesses within Atlantic Canada, but primarily, we are defined by our leading position as an integrated real estate development and construction firm. Our multi-generational practice is dedicated to the principles of excellence and is built on the mandate of creating a “sense of place” in our work. The company is unique in its integration of the concept design, development, construction and internal management of all real estate assets.
Westway Park
Westway Park is a creativity-driven community sitting on 62 acres, located off Innovation Drive and Hammonds Plains Road, in the rapidly growing western suburbs of Halifax. The Armour Group Limited holdings at Westway Park include:
1. 15 Western Parkway – a 167,000 sq. ft. purpose-built building completed in 2009 and acquired and redeveloped by The Armour Group Limited in 2014.
2. 120 Western Parkway – 110,000 sq. ft., 6 floors, class A finishes. Completed in 2017.
3. Westway Park Amenity – 22,000 sq. ft. of dedicated amenity space, features a modern fitness centre, common meeting rooms, fresh food provider and a Wi-Fi lounge. Completed in 2017.
4. 175 Western Parkway – 54,000 sq. ft. AAA commercial space, with an enclosed two-level parkade.
For more information, please contact:
Catherine Bagnell Styles
Executive Vice-President, Marketing & Communications
902.441.2276
cbstyles@armourgroup.com
www.armourgroup.com
Providing an Indelible Sense of Place, Muir Unveils New Website
Travellers can now dream, plan and book their trip to this
much-anticipated property
Halifax, NS – June 23, 2021 – Opening this fall on the waterfront in the absolute centre of downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia, Muir, an Autograph Collection Hotel, has launched its new website and is now accepting reservations. Providing a comprehensive exploration of the property’s premium experiences and offerings, the website invites business and leisure travellers to browse, dream and plan their future trip.
Offering refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality, Muir is inspired by the enduring spirit, culture and character of the province. Located in the new Queen’s Marque district, Muir’s downtown location and unprecedented waterfront access are an essential setting to conduct business and to experience this much-loved city. Guest rooms and suites, designed by acclaimed Canadian interior design firm Studio Munge, evoke a contemporary East Coast aesthetic, featuring a collection of custom, made-in-Canada furniture including a walnut floating worktable, custom full-size bar, walnut-framed beds and white oak walls. The warmth of traditional Nova Scotia is reflected in a modern Muir tartan blanket and braided rug.
Expansive windows look out to immediate ocean views, flooding rooms with coastal light. In the spa-like bathrooms, rain showers, marble-lined tubs, teak shaving stools, Aesop skincare products and locally made bath salts encourage guests to relax and recharge.
Essential for Business, Meetings and Distinct Gatherings
From its location in the absolute centre of downtown Halifax, Muir guests are ideally situated for business connections. Impeccable service and amenities include complimentary access to The Wardroom, Muir’s fully-appointed executive meeting room, car and driver service with hybrid Range Rover, 24-hour in-room dining, premium wellness centre and of course, ultra-fast Wi-Fi throughout for uninterrupted productivity.
Premium Wellness
Reinvigorate at Windward Wellness, Muir’s ultra-premium 6,500 square-foot fitness centre equipped with Technogym treadmills, ellipticals and rowing machines plus free weights, yoga and spin room and extensive selection of circuit training equipment.
For relaxation, a vitality spa pool, cold plunge pool, halotherapy salt room, eucalyptus steam room and infrared sauna are ready to reward and restore.
Interior renderings by: Studio Munge
Atlantic Canada’s Finest Fare
Muir’s waterfront restaurant Drift serves modern, elevated takes on classic Atlantic Canadian dishes and traditions. The seasonal patio boasts harbour views, while the spacious bar is an idyllic spot to unwind with a Nova Scotia vintage.
Guests can indulge in a curated cocktail at BKS, a “secret” speakeasy whose libations are inspired by Nova Scotia’s rum-running past while the private oceanside terrace offers the best views in the city.
Ballast Bar, Muir’s seasonal raw bar, will offer an ocean-to-dish experience with the very freshest of seafood.
Interior rendering by: Studio Munge
Experience The Ocean Up Close
Muir’s unparalleled waterfront location, kayaks, paddle boards and bikes offer endless possibilities for adventure. For a thrilling experience offered only at Muir, set sail at sunset onboard Little Wing, Muir’s 36-foot Morris yacht, or feel the salt spray on Reach, Muir’s 24-foot Pursuit motorboat.
A Distinctly Nova Scotian Art Experience
Art is an integral part of the Muir story. From Muir’s guests-only art gallery – True Colours – to the rooms, common areas, outside spaces and throughout the Queens Marque district, guests will discover a significant collection of local and global art from dozens of artists including Tim Forbes, Allison Pinsent Baker and Sharon Wadsworth Smith, each paying thoughtful tribute to this region and its people. From original Nova Scotia landscape paintings in every room to a statement handcrafted tapestry in the lobby to photographs capturing the mood and raw beauty of this region, art is at present at every touchpoint.
From an enticing waterfront setting, carefully appointed rooms and thoughtful amenities, to art, design and dining, Muir establishes a firm “Sense of Place”, inviting visitors to forge a meaningful connection with Nova Scotia and its people. For more information, visit the newly unveiled Muirhotel.com, or join the Muir community on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
-30-
About Muir, Autograph Collection Hotel:
Inspired by the enduring spirit, culture and character of Nova Scotia, Muir will welcome guests to a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience. Located in the absolute centre of downtown Halifax in the new Queen’s Marque district, Muir offers unprecedented waterfront views and ocean access. Each of Muir’s 109 rooms promise comfort, serenity and feature bespoke, made-in-Canada furniture and original Nova Scotia art. Muir’s amenities include elevated, regional dining; ultra-premium wellness centre with high-performance fitness equipment, vitality spa pool and halotherapy salt room; Muir yacht and motorboat; and a significant regionally curated art collection, including a private art gallery. Muir is a gracious host, a one-of-a-kind destination and a true cultural beacon for Halifax and beyond. It is exactly like nothing else.
Website: muirhotel.com
Facebook: /muirhotelhalifax
Instagram: @muirhotelhalifax
About Queen’s Marque
Queen’s Marque, conceived, developed and operated by The Armour Group, is a new urban neighbourhood on the historic waterfront, in the heart of downtown Halifax. When fully open, Queen’s Marque will feature upscale residences, office space, a wide variety of food and beverage offerings, 75,000 square feet of public space, a significant art collection and in the centre of it all – Muir, a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience.
For more information, interviews or high-res images, please contact:
Nicole Amiel
Beattie Tartan
nicole.amiel@beattiegroup.com | 416.436.5185
Samantha Geer
Beattie Tartan
samantha.geer@beattiegroup.com | 236.558.7355
Celebrated Canadian chef tapped to lead culinary direction at Drift, Halifax’s new waterfront restaurant
Chef Anthony Walsh will bring a creative interpretation of Atlantic Canadian cuisine to the Queen’s Marque district
Drift's Salon Bar
Halifax (NS) – June 9, 2021 – Today, Queen’s Marque announced Chef Anthony Walsh will be the creative culinary lead at Drift, a new dining destination opening fall of 2021 on the Halifax waterfront. Chef Walsh will oversee the culinary vision at Drift, as well as on other food and beverage programs for several Queen’s Marque district restaurant and bar concepts currently in development.
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, as well as weekend brunch and late-night cocktails, Drift will offer modern and innovative takes on Atlantic Canadian classics. Paying tribute to the culinary traditions of Nova Scotia, Chef Walsh’s menus will have a distinctive and contemporary Maritime flair, featuring familiar and celebrated local ingredients.
"With much of my family living here in Halifax, Atlantic Canada has always been a very special place for me," said Chef Walsh, who will be working with Queen’s Marque through an operating agreement with Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality. "I'm excited to work with some of the city's tremendous local culinary talent to showcase the East Coast's most beloved ingredients ─ all stemming from a vibrant community of artisans, producers, farmers and fishers."
One of Canada’s most revered and highly respected chefs, Chef Walsh first garnered attention as Executive Chef of Canoe. There, his leadership, unrivalled culinary craftsmanship and visionary sense for haute Canadian cuisine played a vital role in the restaurant’s meteoric ascent on the country’s fine dining scene. Over the course of his 30-year career, Chef Walsh has received numerous awards and distinctions, including multiple gold medals from the Canadian Culinary Championships, Taste of Canada, Black Box and Salon Culinaire, as well as hosting at New York City's esteemed James Beard House.
“We are delighted to have Chef Walsh join us, bringing his robust culinary experience and expertise to Drift and the surrounding Queen’s Marque district,” said Scott Armour McCrea, chief executive officer of The Armour Group Limited, owner and operator of Queen’s Marque. “Nova Scotia has a rich and evolving culinary landscape, which we are honoured to become a part of. We aim to create a distinct dining experience that fosters connection amongst people and place.”
With Drift’s opening slated for fall 2021, Chef Walsh will be spending the next several months developing his culinary team and recruiting local talent. For more details about employment opportunities, please visit www.drifthalifax.com.
Website: drifthalifax.com
Facebook: /DriftHfx
Instagram: @drifthalifax
-30-
About Queen’s Marque
Queen’s Marque, conceived, developed and operated by The Armour Group, is a new urban neighbourhood on the historic waterfront, in the heart of downtown Halifax. When fully open, Queen’s Marque will feature upscale residences, office space, a wide variety of food and beverage offerings, 75,000 square feet of public space, a significant art collection and in the centre of it all – Muir, a refined, distinctly Nova Scotian hospitality experience.
For more information, interviews or high-res images, please contact:
Nicole Amiel
Beattie Tartan
nicole.amiel@beattiegroup.com | 416.436.5185
Catherine Bagnell Styles
Executive Vice-President, Marketing + Communications, The Armour Group
cbstyles@armourgroup.com | 902.441.2276