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Montreal Historic Hotel Transforms into Modern Luxury Gem

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  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/1 .. ric-hotel-transforms-into-modern-luxury-gem.html
  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, December 16th 2025 at 7:09 GMT by House & Home

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A Timeless Montreal Gem Gets a Fresh New Look

In the heart of Montreal’s bustling downtown, a once‑quiet corner of the city’s historic fabric has been quietly transformed. The old hotel, a beloved landmark that has been welcoming guests since the early 20th century, has undergone a comprehensive renovation that marries its storied past with contemporary luxury. The makeover, which has been featured in House & Home’s “A Charming Old Montreal Hotel Gets a Fresh New Look,” showcases how preservation and modern design can coexist in a heritage property.

A Storied Legacy

The hotel in question was originally built in 1918 as part of Montreal’s rapid expansion during the post‑War era. Located on a prime block that straddles the old “Old Port” district and the newer business districts, it quickly became a favorite among both business travelers and tourists seeking an authentic Montreal experience. Over the decades, the building’s ornate façade, its grand lobby with a sweeping staircase, and the original brass fixtures have all been cherished symbols of the city’s architectural heritage.

The publication traces the building’s evolution: after the 1970s it saw a period of decline, but the early 2000s brought new ownership that was committed to preserving the hotel’s heritage while updating its infrastructure. The owners recognized that the building’s potential lay not just in its historic character, but also in the opportunity to re‑imagine the interior spaces to meet the expectations of 21st‑century travelers.

The Renovation Vision

The renovation’s guiding principle was “heritage with a hint of contemporary,” a mantra echoed by the hotel’s new design lead, former interior architect Jean‑Pierre Bouchard. Bouchard, who previously worked on several heritage properties in Quebec, explains that the key to a successful project was to preserve the building’s defining elements—such as the exposed brick walls and the original timber beams—while introducing a new, sophisticated color palette and modern amenities.

According to the House & Home article, the renovation was carried out by the Montreal‑based firm Gagnon & Leduc, who specialize in adaptive reuse projects. Their approach involved a meticulous assessment of the building’s structural integrity, followed by a phased restoration that began with the façade, then the lobby, and finally the guest rooms.

Facade and Exterior

The first visible change was to the hotel’s stone façade. After centuries of weathering, the stone had become uneven and discolored. The restoration team cleaned the stone using a low‑pressure wash, re‑taped the mortar joints, and applied a protective sealant that preserves the historic texture while preventing water ingress. A new wrought‑iron balcony, inspired by early 20th‑century design motifs, now sits atop the entrance, offering a subtle nod to the building’s past.

Lobby and Public Spaces

Inside, the lobby was transformed into a “warm, welcoming space” that keeps the original marble floor and ornate chandeliers intact. The renovation added a new lighting plan that highlights the building’s architectural features, while a fresh color scheme of muted greens and earthy browns creates a soothing ambiance. The hotel’s original brass elevator doors were replaced with a sleek, contemporary finish that maintains the historic silhouette.

The hotel’s restaurant, formerly a speakeasy‑style lounge, was converted into an elegant bistro that showcases the building’s original exposed brick and reclaimed oak beams. The kitchen was upgraded with state‑of‑the‑art equipment, while the dining area features a large, panoramic window that frames the city’s skyline—a new feature that would have been unimaginable in the early 1900s.

Guest Rooms: Luxury Meets History

The core of the renovation lies in the guest rooms, where each of the 48 rooms is a “mini‑masterpiece.” Each room carries a different design theme, all of which pay homage to a different era of Montreal’s history. For example, the “Art Deco Suite” features geometric wall panels and mirrored accents reminiscent of the 1930s, while the “Contemporary Loft” boasts an open-plan layout and minimalist décor.

All rooms now include high‑speed Wi‑Fi, a 55‑inch smart TV, and a small kitchenette equipped with a coffee machine, a mini‑fridge, and a microwave. The bathrooms have been fully modernized, featuring rain showers, high‑quality fixtures, and luxurious linens. Importantly, the renovation has maintained the original high ceilings and large windows that allow natural light to flood the rooms.

Sustainable Design and Technology

A notable aspect highlighted in the article is the project’s commitment to sustainability. The renovation incorporated energy‑efficient HVAC systems, LED lighting, and low‑VOC paint, all while keeping the building’s heritage façade intact. The new plumbing and electrical upgrades meet contemporary building codes, but the hotel also installed a smart energy management system that tracks and optimizes usage, ensuring that the historic building runs as efficiently as a modern boutique hotel.

Owner’s Perspective

The hotel’s owner, Francine Lavoie, is quoted in the piece as saying, “We’re not just renovating a building; we’re restoring a piece of Montreal’s soul.” Lavoie emphasizes that the project’s success hinges on community involvement. She recounts how local historians were consulted throughout the planning stages to ensure that every architectural detail remained true to the building’s original design.

She also discusses future plans: “We’re looking into expanding our wellness offerings—perhaps a small spa or yoga studio—while continuing to honor the hotel’s heritage.” Her vision reflects a desire to blend the old and new seamlessly, creating a space that feels both nostalgic and forward‑looking.

Community Impact

The renovation has had a ripple effect on the surrounding neighborhood. With the hotel now offering a boutique experience, local businesses have seen increased foot traffic. The article includes a brief interview with the owner of a nearby artisanal bakery, who notes that guests often visit for breakfast and comment on how the hotel’s historic charm complements the city’s culinary scene.

The renovation also won the 2024 Montreal Heritage Award for “Best Restoration Project,” a testament to the meticulous planning and respect for the city’s architectural legacy.

Conclusion

A Charming Old Montreal Hotel Gets a Fresh New Look captures more than just a renovation; it documents a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and modern hospitality. By carefully preserving the building’s defining architectural features while infusing contemporary comforts, the hotel now stands as a shining example of how historic properties can be revitalized to meet today’s demands. Whether you’re a history buff, a design enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable stay, this newly reborn Montreal gem promises an experience that feels both timeless and distinctly current.