Latest news with #DouglasCoupland


Travel Daily News
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Travel Daily News
Fairmont Pacific Rim unveils Suite X
Fairmont Pacific Rim debuts Suite X, an immersive art-meets-hospitality experience created with Douglas Coupland, celebrating Generation X and contemporary Canadian culture. VANCOUVER, BC – Fairmont Pacific Rim, has debuted Suite X – a one-of-a-kind concept designed in collaboration with internationally acclaimed Canadian visual artist and author, Douglas Coupland and the hotel's co-owner and developers, Westbank and Peterson. Inspired by Generation X, Coupland's novel that helped define and popularize an entire generation, this immersive experience pays tribute to the demographic that reimagined identity, technology, and art. Blurring the lines between art, design, and hospitality, Suite X is a vibrant extension of the newly renovated Fairmont Gold experience, offering guests an exclusive opportunity to step inside Coupland's world – a living gallery inspired by his fascination with contemporary culture, technology, and Canadian identity. Drawing on his signature pop-art aesthetic, the suite integrates bold visuals, custom-designed furniture, an in-suite bar, and unexpected design moments that invite introspection and spark conversation. 'I'm very much a product of the late 20th century, and this suite reflects my deep love for that era.'says Douglas Coupland. 'When I was growing up, Vancouver felt like nowhere – and then, post-Olympics, it suddenly became somewhere. I never expected to witness such a transformation, but I've had the privilege of being part of the city's full evolution.' Located on the Fairmont Gold floor and offering sweeping views of Vancouver's waterfront and mountains, Suite X features original works by Coupland and curated literature from the artist's own personal collection and the TASCHEN library. The experience evokes the feeling of sitting in Coupland's own living room – every detail has been thoughtfully considered by the artist himself. Suite X marks a bold evolution in Fairmont Pacific Rim's ongoing mission to celebrate local art and culture while offering guests next-level experiences rooted in creativity and design. It also expands on the hotel's reimagined Fairmont Gold offering, which now offers a nature-inspired sanctuary featuring elevated amenities and bespoke services tailored for the discerning traveler. 'Suite X represents the intersection of hospitality and artistry, a place where inspiration lives and guests can connect with a truly unique Vancouver story.' says Jens Moesker, Regional Vice President and General Manager, Fairmont Pacific Rim. 'Collaborating with Douglas Coupland has been an incredible creative journey.'


The Province
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Province
Step inside the new Vancouver hotel suite inspired by artist Douglas Coupland's living room
Fairmont Pacific Rim's Suite X offers an intimate glimpse into artist's space Vancouver artist and author Douglas Coupland has created a concept called Suite X at the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel in Vancouver. Photo by Fairmont Pacific Rim Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Douglas Coupland has spent a lot of time in hotels. 'I lived in hotels like 35 years,' the multidisciplinary artist and author says. That lengthy experience in suites around the world has made Coupland keenly aware of exactly what he feels is missing from most hotel room setups: personality. 'So many hotel rooms, even super good ones these days, are just like soul-crushingly generic,' Coupland says. The Vancouver-based artist's latest project at the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel offers a solution. Called Suite X, the project saw Coupland offer a long-overdue update to the luxury hotel property's room 1706, a space previously themed around the 2010 Winter Olympics. 'It needed a little bit of Charlie Brown Christmas tree love,' Coupland jokes of the former space. And boy, did it get it. Essential reading for hockey fans who eat, sleep, Canucks, repeat. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Vancouver artist and author Douglas Coupland has created a concept called Suite X at the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel in Vancouver. Photo by Fairmont Pacific Rim In a news release shared by the property, the suite was described as being inspired by Coupland's bestselling novel, Generation X (hence the name). But, according to the artist, it's perhaps best described as a near-perfect replica of his personal living room. 'It's like my living room, away from my living room,' he says. The idea for the colourful, fully loaded space came about during a party at Coupland's house where hotel owner and Westbank Corp founder Ian Gillespie suggested they redo suite 1706 to look just like Coupland's personal living room. 'I was like, okay, we can do that,' Coupland recalls. The project took place over approximately three months, according to Coupland. During that time, the room received updates such as new flooring and installations — along with a whole bunch of pop culture pieces curated by the artist. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'This is the hotel room I wish I could have stayed in,' Coupland says. Suite X at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. Photo by Fairmont Pacific Rim A 'living gallery' of sorts, the suite features art pieces including a Lego model of Coupland's famous Digital Orca, canvasses, and books from both the artist's personal collection and from Taschen. Marine drift pieces recovered following the Japanese tsunami off the beaches of Haida Gwaii also feature prominently in the space, with some of the recovered items displayed as is, while others have been painted gold or covered in resin. 'It actually turns out it's all about a marine ecology, which I think is the understory there,' Coupland says of the book and suite. 'I certainly love pop culture, especially sort of 20th century pop culture. And so you put the two of those things together, and you got this very interesting combination.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. For those who can't stay in the new suite themselves, Coupland says the room will be featured in a new book about the space to be released soon. The room will change over time, with new installations and art being moved in and out of the space. 'They like trying out new ideas,' Coupland says of the property. 'So they'll always be something new.' Suite X at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. Photo by Fairmont Pacific Rim When prompted to pick a favourite aspect of the newly redesigned suite, Coupland provided a very Vancouver response: the view. 'It overlooks the grass roof of Canada Place … you're looking at the harbour,' Coupland says of the impressive expanse. 'It's like a crazy view.' Aharris@ Read More Vancouver Canucks Vancouver Canucks Vancouver Canucks Sports News


Vancouver Sun
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Vancouver Sun
Step inside the new Vancouver hotel suite inspired by artist Douglas Coupland's living room
Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Douglas Coupland has spent a lot of time in hotels. 'I lived in hotels like 35 years,' the multidisciplinary artist and author says. That lengthy experience in suites around the world has made Coupland keenly aware of exactly what he feels is missing from most hotel room setups: personality. 'So many hotel rooms, even super good ones these days, are just like soul-crushingly generic,' Coupland says. Get top headlines and gossip from the world of celebrity and entertainment. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Sun Spots will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. The Vancouver-based artist's latest project at the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel offers a solution. Called Suite X, the project saw Coupland offer a long-overdue update to the luxury hotel property's room 1706, a space previously themed around the 2010 Winter Olympics. 'It needed a little bit of Charlie Brown Christmas tree love,' Coupland jokes of the former space. And boy, did it get it. In a news release shared by the property, the suite was described as being inspired by Coupland's bestselling novel, Generation X (hence the name). But, according to the artist, it's perhaps best described as a near-perfect replica of his personal living room. 'It's like my living room, away from my living room,' he says. The idea for the colourful, fully loaded space came about during a party at Coupland's house where hotel owner and Westbank Corp founder Ian Gillespie suggested they redo suite 1706 to look just like Coupland's personal living room. 'I was like, okay, we can do that,' Coupland recalls. The project took place over approximately three months, according to Coupland. During that time, the room received updates such as new flooring and installations — along with a whole bunch of pop culture pieces curated by the artist. 'This is the hotel room I wish I could have stayed in,' Coupland says. A 'living gallery' of sorts, the suite features art pieces including a Lego model of Coupland's famous Digital Orca, canvasses, and books from both the artist's personal collection and from Taschen. Marine drift pieces recovered following the Japanese tsunami off the beaches of Haida Gwaii also feature prominently in the space, with some of the recovered items displayed as is, while others have been painted gold or covered in resin. 'It actually turns out it's all about a marine ecology, which I think is the understory there,' Coupland says of the book and suite. 'I certainly love pop culture, especially sort of 20th century pop culture. And so you put the two of those things together, and you got this very interesting combination.' For those who can't stay in the new suite themselves, Coupland says the room will be featured in a new book about the space to be released soon. The room will change over time, with new installations and art being moved in and out of the space. 'They like trying out new ideas,' Coupland says of the property. 'So they'll always be something new.' When prompted to pick a favourite aspect of the newly redesigned suite, Coupland provided a very Vancouver response: the view. 'It overlooks the grass roof of Canada Place … you're looking at the harbour,' Coupland says of the impressive expanse. 'It's like a crazy view.' Aharris@

Sydney Morning Herald
16-05-2025
- General
- Sydney Morning Herald
Why Gen X is the real loser generation
'We suffer', said Seneca, 'more often in imagination than in reality'. The Stoic philosopher could have been talking about the generations. Members of Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, say that social media ruined their childhood. Millennials, between 1981 and 1996, complain that they cannot buy a house. Baby Boomers, between 1946 and 1964, grouse that they face an uncertain retirement. Many forget about Generation X, which is made up of those born between 1965 and 1980. Proxied by Google searches the world is less than half as interested in Gen X as it is in Millennials, Gen Zers or Baby Boomers. There are few podcasts or memes about Gen X. Aside from Douglas Coupland's Generation X: Tales for an Accelerated Culture, a novel published in 1991 which popularised the moniker, there are few books discussing the cohort. In Britain, Gen Xers are less likely than members of any other age group to know the generation to which they belong. Gen Xers may have no place in the popular imagination but, contrary to Seneca, they really do suffer. This is true both because Gen Xers are at a tricky age, and also because the cohort itself is cursed. A recent 30-country poll by Ipsos finds that 31 per cent of Gen Xers say they are 'not very happy' or 'not happy at all', the most of any generation. David Blanchflower of Dartmouth College finds all sorts of nasty things, from unhappiness to anxiety to despair, top out around the age of 50. This is consistent with the 'U-bend of life' theory, which suggests that people are happy when young and old, but miserable in middle age. Baby Boomers went through it; before long millennials will, too. Loading The U-bend exists in part because chronic health issues start to emerge in middle age. People also come to realise they will not achieve everything they had hoped in their careers. On top of this, Gen Xers often have to look after both their children and their parents. In America, they devote 5 per cent of their spending to caring for people under 18 or over 65, against just 2 per cent for boomers. In Italy, the share of 18-to-34-year-olds living with their parents has increased from 61 per cent to 68 per cent over the past two decades. In Spain, the rise is even more dramatic. To which generation do many of these parents belong? Gen X.

The Age
16-05-2025
- General
- The Age
Why Gen X is the real loser generation
'We suffer', said Seneca, 'more often in imagination than in reality'. The Stoic philosopher could have been talking about the generations. Members of Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, say that social media ruined their childhood. Millennials, between 1981 and 1996, complain that they cannot buy a house. Baby Boomers, between 1946 and 1964, grouse that they face an uncertain retirement. Many forget about Generation X, which is made up of those born between 1965 and 1980. Proxied by Google searches the world is less than half as interested in Gen X as it is in Millennials, Gen Zers or Baby Boomers. There are few podcasts or memes about Gen X. Aside from Douglas Coupland's Generation X: Tales for an Accelerated Culture, a novel published in 1991 which popularised the moniker, there are few books discussing the cohort. In Britain, Gen Xers are less likely than members of any other age group to know the generation to which they belong. Gen Xers may have no place in the popular imagination but, contrary to Seneca, they really do suffer. This is true both because Gen Xers are at a tricky age, and also because the cohort itself is cursed. A recent 30-country poll by Ipsos finds that 31 per cent of Gen Xers say they are 'not very happy' or 'not happy at all', the most of any generation. David Blanchflower of Dartmouth College finds all sorts of nasty things, from unhappiness to anxiety to despair, top out around the age of 50. This is consistent with the 'U-bend of life' theory, which suggests that people are happy when young and old, but miserable in middle age. Baby Boomers went through it; before long millennials will, too. Loading The U-bend exists in part because chronic health issues start to emerge in middle age. People also come to realise they will not achieve everything they had hoped in their careers. On top of this, Gen Xers often have to look after both their children and their parents. In America, they devote 5 per cent of their spending to caring for people under 18 or over 65, against just 2 per cent for boomers. In Italy, the share of 18-to-34-year-olds living with their parents has increased from 61 per cent to 68 per cent over the past two decades. In Spain, the rise is even more dramatic. To which generation do many of these parents belong? Gen X.