At The Parkside Hotel & Spa in Victoria, BC, the water features are much more than decorative—they form a living link between guests and nature. Outside the hotel, a serene lotus pond invites guests to linger and reflect amid water lilies and soft ripples, creating a quiet, contemplative interface between the landscaping and the built environment. Just inside the reception lobby, a striking koi pond welcomes visitors with gently gliding fish, and staff even facilitate interactive moments such as fish-feeding—turning a lobby into a living, breathing space that fosters connection and delight (guests have remarked on the koi pond as a highlight of their stay).

These water features not only enhance the guest experience but also serve sustainability goals: the natural pond system was carefully engineered to optimize water retention, filtration, and cooling, thereby contributing to reductions in both energy demand and potable water use. As a result of its holistic green approach, The Parkside was honored in February 2025 with the Vancouver Island Business Excellence Environmental Sustainability Award, recognizing its leadership in sustainable hospitality practices.

Location: 810 Humboldt St, Victoria, BC V8V 5B1

Project Completion: 2009

Feature Category: Natural Pond, Koi Pond

Project Owner: Aviawest

Partnership: The Hulbert Group, Forth,

Services Provided: Design Development, Construction Documentation

Photo Credit: The Parkside Hotel & Spa