Our Story

Sometimes you stumble upon places that feel like they've been waiting for you - that's what happened here.

Drakarion Exterior

Where It All Began

Back in 2012, this building was just another forgotten landmark on Spire Boulevard. We saw something different though - the bones of something remarkable. The original structure dated back to 1928, and honestly, walking through those dusty halls for the first time gave us goosebumps.

The name Drakarion? It comes from an old maritime legend about guardians who watched over travelers. Felt right for what we wanted to create - a place where people could feel both protected and free to be themselves.

The Journey

Three years of restoration, countless coffees, and one vision - bringing the old soul back to life.

2012

First walked through the doors and knew this was it. The chandeliers were covered in dust, but you could see the potential everywhere.

2013

Restoration kicks off. We're talking hand-carved woodwork restoration, original marble flooring revealed beneath layers of old carpet - pure magic.

2015

Grand opening in June. 42 suites, full spa, rooftop bar with those Vancouver skyline views. People said we were crazy - turns out they were right, in the best way.

2025

Still going strong. We've welcomed guests from 67 countries, hosted countless celebrations, and yeah, we're kinda proud of what we've built.

Interior Design

Design That Tells Stories

We didn't hire some fancy international firm to make this place look generic. Instead, we worked with local artisans who understood what Vancouver means - the ocean, the mountains, the mix of old and new.

Every suite has custom millwork from a fourth-generation woodworker in Gastown. The lobby's centerpiece sculpture? That's from a Haida artist we met at a coffee shop. Real connections, real craftsmanship. No shortcuts.

The color scheme wasn't random either - deep ocean blues meet warm gold accents because that's literally what you see when you watch the sunset over English Bay from our rooftop.

The People Who Make It Happen

Forget the corporate speak - these are the folks who actually care about whether you had a good stay or not.

Elena Martinez

Elena Martinez

General Manager

Been with us since day one. Elena's the one who remembers guests' coffee orders from visits two years ago. Previously ran hotels in Barcelona and Montreal, but she says this place feels like home.

Marcus Chen

Marcus Chen

Executive Chef

Trained in Tokyo and Paris, but Marcus grew up in Richmond. His menu's a love letter to the Pacific Northwest - wild salmon, foraged mushrooms, and yeah, the occasional Asian fusion twist that'll blow your mind.

Sophia Laurent

Sophia Laurent

Spa & Wellness Director

Sophia brought over 15 years of spa expertise from Switzerland. She's the reason our wellness center doesn't feel like every other cookie-cutter spa. Custom treatments, local ingredients, actual relaxation.

James O'Connor

James O'Connor

Chief Concierge

James knows Vancouver like the back of his hand. Need a table at that impossible-to-book restaurant? Done. Want an off-the-beaten-path hiking trail? He's got five options ready. Born and raised here, and it shows.

Amara Singh

Amara Singh

Events Manager

From intimate weddings to corporate conferences, Amara makes it look easy (spoiler: it's not). She's got this calm energy that makes even the most stressed-out clients breathe easier. Total pro.

Diego Ramirez

Diego Ramirez

Head Mixologist

Diego turned our rooftop bar into one of Vancouver's hottest spots. His cocktails tell stories - literally, he'll explain the inspiration behind each one. Former bartender at some of Mexico City's best spots.

What We Actually Believe In

Look, we're not gonna feed you some mission statement written by a committee. Here's the real deal - we think hospitality should feel like visiting a friend who happens to have an amazing house.

We're big on sustainability but not preachy about it. Solar panels on the roof, partnerships with local farms, water conservation systems that actually work. Just doing what makes sense.

Our staff? They're not robots reading scripts. They're real people empowered to solve problems without checking with seventeen managers first. Revolutionary concept, right?

Our Philosophy

Recognition & Awards

Nice to be noticed, we're not gonna lie.

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