Our Story
A century of elegance, reimagined for today's discerning traveler
A century of elegance, reimagined for today's discerning traveler
Back in 1924, a certain Aldric Yorven had this wild vision - he wanted to build something that'd outlast him, y'know? Not just another hotel, but a place with soul.
The building itself? Pure architectural poetry. We're talking about when craftsmanship actually meant something. Those hand-carved crown moldings, the marble that was shipped from Italy piece by piece... it's the kind of stuff you just don't see anymore.
Every decade added its own chapter to our story
Aldric Yorven threw open the doors to what locals called "the impossible dream." Sixty-eight rooms of pure luxury, and Toronto society couldn't get enough. The opening gala? Still legendary.
After the war years, we bounced back big time. Added that Art Deco bar everyone still raves about - you've probably seen it on Instagram. Maria Quinthalix took the reins and brought her own magic to the place.
The '70s weren't just about disco - we added central air, updated the plumbing (finally!), and somehow managed to do it all without losing an ounce of that vintage charm. It's trickier than you'd think.
This was the big one. Eighteen months, a team of restoration experts who actually cared, and a serious commitment to honoring the original vision while bringing in what today's guests expect. WiFi that actually works? Check.
We're not stuck in the past - we're building on it. Sure, we've got the original details that make history buffs weep with joy, but we've also got a spa that'll melt your stress away and tech that just works. Best of both worlds, really.
The original architect, Edmund Rothwell, was kinda obsessed with Beaux-Arts design. You can see it everywhere - those sweeping staircases, the symmetry that's almost mathematical, the way natural light plays through the spaces.
What really gets me is how he incorporated local materials. That limestone? Quarried just outside Kingston. The woodwork? Canadian oak, every bit of it. It's like the building itself is rooted in Ontario's landscape.
Experience Our Rooms
Designated Heritage Building since 1998
A hotel's only as good as the folks running it
General Manager
Twenty years in hospitality taught me one thing - it's all about the details. And maybe having really good coffee on hand at all times.
Executive Chef
Trained in Paris, fell in love with Canadian ingredients. Now I get to play with both traditions every single day. Living the dream, honestly.
Spa & Wellness Director
Wellness isn't just a buzzword for me - it's about creating spaces where people can actually breathe and reset. That's what we do here.
Head Concierge
Born and raised in Toronto. If there's something happening in this city, I probably know about it. Making the impossible happen? That's just Tuesday for us.
Look, we could throw a bunch of corporate speak at you about "values" and "mission statements." But here's the real deal:
We're not just preserving old stuff - we're keeping stories alive. Every corner of this place has something to say if you're listening.
No fake smiles or scripted greetings. Our team actually cares - you can tell the difference, trust me.
You can have your cake and eat it too. Luxury doesn't mean being wasteful - we prove it every day.
From the thread count on our sheets to the temperature of the pool, we sweat the small stuff so you don't have to.
Every guest adds their own chapter to the Yorven Quinthalix legacy. We'd love for you to write yours.