Here at STYLE Canada, we’re all about supporting creatives and spending time in art-inspired hotels that give us something to talk (think) about. We recently spent the night at Gladstone House in one of Toronto’s most creative neighbourhoods and felt right at home. Read all about our stay below.
The Vibe
Photo provided by Duet Public Relations
The intention behind Gladstone House is one we can get behind; a hub for creativity, a space for all to get curious. The design is intentional and the recent extensive, beautiful renovation invites guests to enjoy a weekend at Toronto’s longest continuously operating hotel in comfort and style. As a landmark property, Gladstone House intertwines restored exposed brick walls, with local curated art and modern designs that create spaces that bring the building to life. It’s created for you to take in the beauty of the conventional, contemporary design features we all love with the timeless character of a historical building. Needless to say, the vibe at Gladstone House is inviting and a place for you to freely create just as much (or more!) as the artists whose collections are found around the hotel.
The Neighbourhood
Located in the heart of West Queen West Gladstone House is a vibrant part of Toronto’s creative scene. Home to some of the best cafés, boutiques and bistros, foodies and trendsetters are forever finding their way here. A place where everyone is welcome, the community is where you’ll spend the morning in the hotel’s art gallery checking out the latest exhibits, mid-morning wandering through the shops to support local businesses and end your day with a playful drink at Cassette (located in the hotel). The neighbourhood of West Queen West is community driven and truly focuses on creating creative spaces for all those who wander here.
The Rooms
Photo provided by Duet Public Relations
Local artwork, high ceilings and boutique amenities in spacious rooms are what set Gladstone House apart from traditional guest rooms you may find in other downtown hotels. Designed with Eurotop King (or Queen) beds, blackout blinds and luxurious linens, we had the best sleep in our Loft King room. All rooms at Gladstone House sleep two and are designed for you to move freely, sleep well and think creatively while nestling in for a night or extended stay. If you’re looking for a quieter room, we suggest requesting the Loft King Room, or if you’re not too sensitive to outside noises, request a Corner King for your own personal retreat.
The Art & Culture
Photo provided by Duet Public Relations
The art program at Gladstone House is one to marvel at. Throughout the hotel you’ll stand in awe of local artists who share their story through various mediums. The hotel recently expanded its guest room art collection with pieces by more than 20 local artists, which truly shows their dedication to supporting Toronto’s vibrant creative community. Lee Petrie, Curator at Archive Hospitality Group shares,
“We’re committed to providing a personal, local experience for our guests, and that includes the unique art in the guest rooms. No matter where guests are visiting from, we want them to get a taste of Toronto’s cultural vitality and creative community. Purchasing original art by local artists for 40 guest rooms allows us to continue our legacy of creating memorable, art-forward experiences, while investing in the artists who shape our community.”
As Lee took to curating the new collection, there is a focus on what moods are evoked during your stay. Each artist’s work is presented in a thoughtful way through a dedicated guest room and may range from a single large-scale piece to multiple smaller works, each serving as a mini exhibition within Gladstone House’s walls.
The art story continues through the hotels Resident Artist Program and awards partnerships. Unique to Gladstone House, the program provides complimentary studio space for three-month residencies, giving artists opportunities to share their practice within a creative space.
For those who want to mix a workout with inspiration, head to their fitness centre which is adorned with, yes, you guessed it, a hand-painted custom mural by a local artist. Play a game of pool or lounge in one of their communal spaces and to get your creative juices flowing.
Cassette
Photo via IG: @builditbydesign
A fan favourite destination at Gladstone House is Cassette, ‘part restaurant, part music venue, full on fun’. The restaurant features perfectly crafted cocktails, reimagined diner classics and is home to karaoke nights, weekend brunch and workshops that spark all the fun you can imagine. Designed with sharables for your whole crew, the chefs take their food seriously and ensure only quality ingredients are used in every dish. If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere with seasonally inspired dishes, visit Gladstone Bistro. It’s light-filled, beautifully designed, and a place where you can dine any hour of the day.
