When Revelstoke’s newest hostel The Cube opened its doors on Jan. 24, I had to ask owner Louis-Marc Simard the question everyone has been asking me: What is a ‘boutique’ hostel?
“It’s a hybrid; more than a hostel, less than a hotel,” explained the Simard, as he led me on a tour through the cucumber-hued hallways into the main communal living room.
The Cube features 17 private rooms and four dorm rooms, inverting the usual hostel mix. Each room features a TV, a toilet and a sink, but the shower rooms are shared.
The Cube has its own linens, but you’ll have to make your bed – a cost-saving measure.
The hostel was recycled from a former lumber supply warehouse, helping Simard keep the square-foot cost – and the prices – down. Their private rooms with two double beds start at $88. Dorm beds start at $32. There are group bookings for up to six dorm beds.
The interior is clean and functional, the materials chosen for simplicity and economy. The floor tiles echo the patterns on the concrete plank exterior, the interior design uses unadorned tin, including custom metal duct overhead lighting at the reception.
(story continues below)
IMAGE: A page view from the Jan. 28 Revelstoke Times Review featuring The Cube. Aaron Orlando/Revelstoke Times Review
Simard said the recycled building and simple materials are key to the ambience; people come to Revelstoke for the outdoor experience. They want to get out there, meet people and have great experiences, not necessarily spend on accommodations.
“We’re selling the idea that this is a different kind of accommodation. Less is more,” Simard said. “It’s the conviviality; you meet people – we want people to meet people.”
Simard enjoys meeting people through his offering.
Simard recently relocated here from Salmon Arm, and continues his career as a sculptor.
He’s had years of experience in hospitality. He built the Kicking Horse Lodge in Field and managed it for over a decade, he said.
Simard said the key is to enjoy what you do and success will follow.
“A good baker makes good bread,” he said. “This makes people happy, [and they return.]”
The Cube is located a 311 Campbell Avenue. 250-837-4086. Book online at cubehostel.ca.