The Otter Hotel & Good Folk Restaurant, Banff – Canada

THE OTTER
The Otter Hotel lobby welcomes guests into a tranquil escape inspired by the forests of Banff and rugged beauty of the surrounding national park. This contemporary haven embraces a blend of regional design, offering a sensory experience that mirrors the interplay of light, texture, and scale found within the Rocky Mountains. The spacious, vaulted lobby transitions seamlessly into intimate, cozy spaces, anchored by a monumental two-sided wood-burning fireplace that invites connection and reflection. Through its thoughtful design, The Otter reimagines the allure of the great outdoors, creating a space where rugged elegance meets refined comfort.
REFINED RUGGEDNESS
The Otter celebrates the raw beauty of nature with a curated palette of materials that honor the Rocky Mountains. Layers of natural textures—smooth honed stone, rugged split-face surfaces, and a spectrum of warm wood tones—echo the landscape’s allure. Antiqued metals in brass, copper, and blackened steel evoke a sense of handcrafted artistry, while soft leathers and plush upholstery in earthy, neutral tones provide a comforting counterbalance. Every detail is intentional, creating an environment that feels grounded, elevated, and organic. The design of The Otter also thrives on the dynamic interaction of light and shadow, just as it comes through a forest canopy. From the vaulted ceilings of the lobby to the layered, glowing warmth of the lounge, the space invites guests to enjoy themselves in an ever-shifting ambiance. Textural materials catch the light in unique ways, adding depth and dimension, while the central fireplace acts as a warm focal point, anchoring the hotel in a timeless, inviting glow.
GOOD FOLK RESTAURANT
Good Folk, the signature restaurant within The Otter, is an intimate retreat inspired by the rugged beauty of Banff’s wilderness. This dining space, framed by the same design ethos as the hotel, offers a warm, tactile experience with plush seating, rich woods, and organic materials that echo the forests just outside. At Good Folk, every detail invites a sense of community and connection. From the natural stone tabletops to handcrafted fixtures in burnished metals, the space feels both humble and elevated, as though the elements were gathered from the land itself. The restaurant’s intimate setting offers a seamless transition from the hotel’s expansive lobby, creating a harmonious flow that carries the essence of Banff’s forests into the dining experience as well.