BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
/THE COMO HOTEL
The Shato Inn Has A New Life
by Jacqui Birchall
(click images to enlarge)
The former Shato Inn property at 1825 Comox is rising like a phoenix as the new owners, Vancouver husband-and-wife team Karim Salamatian and Thuy Dong, transform the much-neglected property into the beautiful boutique Como Hotel.
The rundown and near-derelict shato inn.
The former elderly Shato Inn owners could be seen daily, tending the garden. When the husband died, the property was put up for sale and sold in 2021. Unfortunately, the new owners abandoned their plans, and the property fell into disrepair. There were break-ins, thefts of copper pipes and other valuable items, and homeless folk started sleeping there.
Karim Salamatian and Thuy Duong purchased the property a year ago with plans to create a very special, guest services-focused boutique hotel.
The exterior was immediately painted, double glazing installed, and new fencing erected. A beautiful entry pathway was installed, and the entire interior has been replaced, from plumbing to beautiful flooring and tiling, top-class bathrooms, and reimagined luxury suites, each unique, all with balconies.
New owners and a fresh new look. (Artist’s Rendering)
Karim and Thuy have travelled the world (Karim has worked in or travelled to 55 countries), giving them much experience as hotel guests.
This experience has shaped their decisions as they create The Como Hotel.
The website states that: “Nestled between English Bay and Stanley Park in Vancouver’s charming West End, the Como is a locally owned 32-room boutique hotel inspired by the charm of European design and Lifestyle. While far from its influence, The Como seamlessly blends classic European sophistication with Vancouver’s lively, coastal energy.”
The modern, european-influenced lobby, displaying local art.
There are 32 rooms featuring “clean, contemporary interiors paired with warm textiles and modern technology”, as well as studios and one and two-bedroom options.
Karim told The West End Journal that their interests lie in creating lasting value by blending thoughtful hospitality with neighbourhood well-being. Personalized service is important to the couple, and there will be a Red Light Wellness Suite, Pellaton bikes, and yoga mats available. The owners are focusing on discerning guests who seek a unique experience.
Karim and Thuy say that they are committed to being more than a hotel. They desire to be a community partner. The hotel will showcase local art, culture and the community spirit as part of the guest experience and the suites will be stocked with locally sourced non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. The hotel does not have its own bar or restaurant, but the new owners plan on partnering with local businesses.
An elegant bedroom in the como hotel.
Two West End residents are part of the team: Cris Curry, an expert in opening boutique hotels, and Arabella Bushnell, in guest services. The manager is Cristina Wu. All have been hired well in advance of the opening date to ensure maximum training and input. Services will be available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Portuguese and Mandarin.
Why the name The Como Hotel? It is a blend of Lake Como, where Karim and Thuy honeymooned, and Comox Street.
Karim and Thuy's plans include introducing their guests to the wonders of Stanley Park through literature and park experts. Introducing the guests to our fabulous West End and its delightful restaurants is also on the agenda.
As we go to press, the grounds are getting a facelift and workers are busy completing the transformation. The results promise to be extraordinary.
At press time the projected opening date was February 1. Check the hotel webpage for updates.
The Como Hotel
1825 Comox Street
Email: stay@thecomohotel.com
Phone: 604-307-5115
Website
