LightForm: Unboring Project – The Flamingo, A Mid-Century Revival in Surrey, BC

June 2, 2026

The Flamingo: GVA Lighting Project Brings a Piece of Mid-Century Culture Back to Life as a Refined, Contemporary Experience Shaped Through Thoughtful Design & Lighting

Reviving a story that already exists is a compelling undertaking, especially if that story is steeped in nostalgia and reinvention. The Flamingo Project in Surrey, BC draws inspiration from the original Flamingo Hotel that once stood in the same spot. It was a mid-century modern destination that opened in 1955. Once known as a stylish place for a Friday night dinner, the hotel eventually faded with time and into disrepair. Its spirit, however, lives on in this new interpretation.

Led by Area3 Design, the project reimagines that legacy through a contemporary lens. As Principal Lisa Hansen explains, “the goal was to capture the magic of its origins and bring back a mid-century, Palm Springs-inspired vibe.”

The result is a space that feels warm, transportive, and grounded in a clear design story.

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The Lighting

From the beginning of the project, lighting played a central role in Area3 Design’s approach. The team understood that lighting shapes how people move through and experience the space. Fixture selection was crucial. Every element had to reinforce the brand and design story, which meant choosing lighting that carried visual and historical resonance.

We wanted various lighting elements and levels. All decorative fixtures pay homage to the design intent and mid-century era. Many Louis Poulsen fixtures can be found throughout the amenity spaces.

Lisa Hansen, Principal, Area3 Design

Louis Poulsen lights in the amenity spaces: 

• PH5 Pendants 
• VL45 Radiohus Pendants 
• VL Ring Crown Suspensions

For this reason, Louis Poulsen lights are integrated across the project, chosen for their timelessness, soft, glare-free illumination, and strong sculptural presence.

The overall design incorporates layered, decorative lighting, creating variation in scale and mood.

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Design Decisions & Collaboration

Early decisions focused on using exclusively decorative fixtures to support the mid-century design intent. While the building was new construction, typical coordination challenges with mechanical and electrical systems still arose. In some areas, like the co-working space, ceiling constraints required adjustments, while vents and access panels in amenity spaces had to be carefully worked around.

To realize the vision, Area3 Design partnered with LightForm to ensure that each fixture aligned with both the aesthetic and technical needs of the project.

“Lightform is our go-to for all decorative pieces. [They] have such a great selection, and great rep.”

For Lisa, the most impactful lighting moment happens in the lobby. This is why they had to go with The Big Bang from Foscarini. This area is where the design story comes into focus, setting the tone immediately upon entry.

The Flamingo brings a piece of mid-century culture back to life as a refined, contemporary experience shaped through thoughtful design and lighting.

Photo Credit: David Strongman Pictures

For more information on LightForm lighting solutions HERE

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