Where some people see a problem, Total Concept Development Ltd sees an opportunity.
In 2020, Total Concept purchased Panorama Inn and has since transformed it into a desirable destination, now known as The Vista Inn.
“We took a property that people avoided, and we’ve made it somewhere people actually want to visit,” explains Sheila Minten, the general manager of Total Concept.
“Panorama Inn used to be an incredible motel, but it became rundown over the years and lacked a little bit of TLC.”
Total Concept, however, has definitely given the motel some tender loving care.
“There are certain things we can’t change, like the outside entrance to each room, but our focus has been on making it really clean and comfortable,” Minten adds.
In February 2022, Myah Lawrence joined the team as the manager at The Vista Inn and has since played a prominent role in the motel’s rebrand.
“The rooms had seen better days, but we’ve worked really hard to upgrade everything,” she explains. “The rooms have become modernized.”
Now the motel features bright pink doors and a neon sign that lights up in the dark – and top quality is the only quality.
As a business dedicated to sustainability, The Vista Inn purchased all of the mattresses and furniture from Surrey and Abbostford.
“We want to keep everything as local as we can because it’s important for the local economy,” Minten says. “We appreciate working with local companies that are just as passionate about high quality products as we are.”
Since the new ownership, The Vista Inn has received positive feedback from city employees and community members, saying the crime rates have been significantly reduced and less garbage is left in the area.
“It used to be a tent city, but that’s all gone now and people are enjoying the spectacular views from our lookout spot again,” Minten explains. “It’s a signature spot that I want Kamloops to be proud of.”
Not only do The Vista Inn guests get to enjoy a comfortable mattress, Nespresso machine and grab-and-go breakfast, but they also get to take in the breathtaking view from their room.
With completely unobstructed scenery that peaks down into the river and across the way to Mount Peter and Mount Paul, the sight from The Vista Inn is certainly enchanting.
In addition, the motel is in the ideal spot with a central location between Thompson Rivers University and the Royal Inland Hospital.
“It’s close to everything you need,” Minten says.
Each stay includes complimentary wi-fi and parking, and some of the 84 suites have a kitchenette and are dog-friendly.
The Vista Inn is perfect for families, adventure seekers, sports fanatics and passersby.
Lawrence adds: “Our property has a great team who is ready to welcome everybody.
