A Family Affair: Sisters Revive Jasper's Historic Gem
The world of hospitality is witnessing a captivating tale of sisterly entrepreneurship as two Edmonton sisters, Karyn Decore and Nicole Arquero, take the reins of the legendary Athabasca Hotel in Jasper, Alberta. This isn't just a business acquisition; it's a journey through time, family legacy, and the preservation of a community's soul.
Preserving History, One Hotel at a Time
The Athabasca Hotel, a 98-year-old landmark, has been a cornerstone of Jasper's identity. What makes this transition unique is the sisters' deep-rooted connection to the region and their commitment to honoring the hotel's past. Personally, I find it fascinating how they plan to infuse new life into the hotel while respecting its rich history. It's a delicate balance that many modern developers often overlook.
The hotel's origins are equally intriguing. It was initially built by the Calgary Brewing and Malting Company to sell beer, but they ended up creating a beloved community hub. This unexpected evolution is a testament to the hotel's resilience and adaptability. From a beer-selling venture to a cherished local institution, the Athabasca Hotel has become an integral part of Jasper's narrative.
Modernizing a Historic Gem
The sisters have an ambitious plan to modernize the hotel, investing $4.5 million in immediate upgrades. This includes adding an elevator, air conditioning, and new bathrooms, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all guests. What many people don't realize is that these improvements are not about transforming the hotel into a generic, cookie-cutter establishment. Instead, it's about enhancing the guest experience while preserving the hotel's unique character.
The hotel's architectural details, such as wood carvings and high ceilings, are a far cry from modern designs. These features are what make the Athabasca Hotel special, and the sisters are wise to retain them. In my opinion, it's a delicate dance between modernization and preservation, and they seem to have found the perfect rhythm.
A Family Legacy Continues
The Decore family's history in the hospitality industry spans generations. Karyn Decore's childhood summers were spent cleaning hotel rooms in Jasper, and now her children are following in her footsteps. This intergenerational connection is a powerful aspect of the story. It's not just a business; it's a family tradition, a way of life.
The sisters' passion for the hotel business is infectious. They find joy in the unexpected, the unusual, and the 'crazy' aspects of hotel life. This enthusiasm is what keeps the industry vibrant and ensures that historic hotels like the Athabasca continue to thrive.
Community and Continuity
The Athabasca Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it's a community hub. The sisters understand the importance of this role and are committed to maintaining it. By providing housing for staff, they address a critical barrier to living and working in Jasper. This commitment to the community is a refreshing approach in an industry often driven by profit alone.
In conclusion, the story of the Athabasca Hotel's new ownership is a captivating blend of family legacy, historical preservation, and community engagement. It's a reminder that hotels are not just buildings but living, breathing entities that shape the character of a place. As the sisters embark on this new chapter, they carry with them the weight of history and the promise of a vibrant future.
