Meet Patricia Phillips: The Woman Behind The Dorian Hotel

The Dorian Hotel opened its playful and whimsical doors in 2022 and has been providing Calgarians and visitors with exceptional hospitality ever since. Behind the vision is owner Patricia Phillips.

Here, Phillips shares what inspired her direction for The Dorian and its award-winning amenities. 

Q: What has your most rewarding moment been as owner?

A: The most rewarding moment was the day we officially opened The Dorian in 2022. As the first new hotel built in Calgary’s downtown core in over a decade, it was a milestone that meant so much, not just to me, but to our entire team. Having spent much of my career in male-dominated industries, it’s an honour to break barriers and show other women what’s possible. My hope is that The Dorian serves as both an inspiration and a stepping stone for more women to lead in this space.

Q: What is the connection between your father and the hotel?

A: The Dorian is more than just a hotel — it’s a tribute to my late father and the legacy he left. His favourite book was The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde, and when it came time to bring this hotel to life, it only felt right to weave that inspiration into its very fabric. Creating The Dorian in his memory has been deeply personal. It’s not just a space for guests to stay — it’s an experience that embodies his spirit: vibrant, daring and unapologetically unique. Every time I walk through the doors, I feel his presence, and I hope that everyone who visits senses the passion and purpose behind it. For me, The Dorian is a love letter to my father.

Q: As an expert in the hospitality industry, what’s your number one hosting tip?

A: Hosting is all about the little details. Whenever possible, personalize the experience to make your guests feel truly special. That could mean having their favourite coffee or tea ready, leaving a treat they love on their pillow or setting the ambiance with scents they enjoy. Thoughtful touches make all the difference.

Q: What’s particularly notable about The Dorian?

A: I’m incredibly proud that The Dorian was awarded a MICHELIN Guide One Key designation in both 2024 and 2025 — a prestigious honour that recognizes the world’s most outstanding hotels. The Dorian is Calgary’s only MICHELIN Key hotel. This recognition isn’t just about beautiful design or luxury amenities — it’s about the unforgettable experiences we create for every guest. To receive this global accolade so early in the hotel’s journey is remarkable, and it reinforces what we’ve believed all along — Calgary deserves a place on the map when it comes to extraordinary hospitality. We’re honoured to help showcase this city to the world.

Patricia Phillips’ favourite things about The Dorian

The wallpaper

“I absolutely adore our blue and gold patterned wallpaper that is featured in each of our rooms as it adds such a lovely Victorian touch.”

Custom carpet

“I love our custom carpet, a British tartan with the Alberta Wild Rose woven into it, which proudly reflects our local roots. It’s a small detail to some, but for us, it’s a meaningful tribute to our city and province — something we value deeply as a local business.”

The Wilde’s rooftop terrace

“My favourite spot in the hotel to unwind is at a table at The Wilde’s rooftop terrace overlooking our beautiful city. With a glass of wine in tow, what more can you ask for?”

The Dorian portrait

“After check-in, our guests can scan a QR code to anonymously confess past transgressions, which others then rate on a scale from acceptable to utterly deplorable. The portrait changes throughout the day based on these confessions. It’s an interactive experience that allows our guests space to reflect on morality while giving a playful nod to Oscar Wilde’s classic tale.”

The post Meet Patricia Phillips: The Woman Behind The Dorian Hotel appeared first on Avenue Calgary.