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