When it comes to pushing the boundaries of interior design, Lori Morris stands out as an innovative and fearless artist. Her work is characterized by a “no rules” approach that amalgamates sumptuous elegance with a sexy, distinctive edge regularly transforming the ultimate design dreams into a fully finished space.  This unique vision has led her to create some of the most breathtaking interiors globally, and her latest project, The Scotsman Hotel in Niagara on the Lake, Ontario, has earned her a respected Luxury Lifestyle Awards in 2024 for Best Luxury Hotel Interior Design. 

A Timeless Transformation

The Scotsman Hotel, originally built in 1835 as a post office, has undergone several transformations throughout its storied history. By 1893, it had been converted into a bed and breakfast, and over the years, it saw numerous owners and renovations. The latest chapter in its history began in November 2020, when Lori Morris embarked on a mission to transform this historic property into a world-class 5-star boutique hotel. 

Opened February 2024, this 4,011 sq. ft. renovation includes six unique suites, each with an ensuite bathroom and lavish amenities such as a clawfoot tub and a personalized mini bar. The renovation also includes a lobby with an around-the-clock concierge, an inviting outdoor seating area with fireplaces and a water feature, three distinct upscale lounges, and a breakfast room. Each space within The Scotsman Hotel proves Morris’ passion for luxury and her attention to detail.  

Overcoming Challenges with Artistic Flair

The renovation of The Scotsman Hotel was not without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles was the strict historic limitations of the architecture of the building which had to stay intact and in designing and constructing any architectural enhancements to the windows, archways, doors, and outdoor property which required precise craftsmanship and a keen eye for design continuity. Additionally, sourcing the finest materials, such as luxury marble, stone, and high-end fabrics, added another layer of complexity to the project. However, Morris’ 35 years of expertise in luxury sourcing and her devotion to quality ensured that these challenges were met with elegance and precision. 

Services Tailored to Perfection

Lori Morris Design is a globally recognized powerhouse specializing in both residential and commercial properties. Their award-winning design studio is distinguished by a world-class in-house team of designers, decorators, project managers, and support staff, each contributing to the House of LMD’s legacy of excellence. Every project is executed with exquisite craftsmanship, superlative quality, and an exceptional focus on detail. 

For The Scotsman Hotel, Lori Morris Design provided a full suite of services, including architectural planning, design sketches, architectural drawings, material sourcing, full renovation, construction management, space planning, millwork, custom cabinetry, custom furniture, custom drapes, furniture sourcing, art sourcing, and decoration. Each piece of furniture and fitting was either custom-designed or carefully sourced by LMD, ensuring a cohesive and luxurious aesthetic throughout the hotel. 

A Concierge-Styled Approach to Design

Lori Morris Design follows a streamlined process designed to provide an exceptional experience for every client. Upon retaining their services, clients are assigned a dedicated Project Manager who works closely with them from inception to completion. This hands-on, concierge-styled approach ensures that every aspect of the client’s vision is fully realized and exceeded. 

The process begins with establishing the scope of work and creating a framework that aligns with the client’s design vision. Once the final design is approved and the interior construction documents are finalized, Morris and her team hand-select and manage the best fabricators, tradespeople, and workers ensuring a seamless transition from design to reality. 

A Legacy of Achievement

Lori Morris Design’s commitment to innovation and excellence has garnered international acclaim. Their portfolio is coveted by the most discerning clientele, including global icon Lionel Messi, who recently acquired a residence designed by Lori in Florida. The House of LMD was also honored with nine prestigious awards in 2023 alone, notably being named in the Top 100 Architects & Designers by Luxury Lifestyle Awards. Lori herself was celebrated as Business Woman of the Year in Toronto, Canada, and her visionary designs were featured in the Andrew Martin Review for the fourth time, an accolade reserved for the top 100 designers in the world often regarded as the Oscars of interior design based in London, England. Their work is also regularly showcased in many prestigious publications with highlights including Elle Décor, Architectural Digest, Homes & Gardens, Forbes, and Robb Report. 

Conclusion

Lori Morris’ work at The Scotsman Hotel exemplifies her remarkable talent and devotion to creating luxurious, unique spaces. By combining historical charm with modern opulence, she has transformed a historic property into a world-class destination that embodies the essence of luxury. Her fearless approach to design and dedication to quality continues to set new standards in the industry. Visit www.lorimorris.com to find out more about Lori Morris and her award-winning company, and www.thescotsmanhotel.ca to learn more about The Scotsman Hotel.