Here’s what you need to know about the Anndore House, the much anticipated hotel which officially opened the doors.
Written by Chris Metler
First off, the downtown Toronto hotel was designed to not only be an inclusive resource for locals, but for travellers from all over the world. Secondly, those who experience Anndore House are invited to look at the premise as an extension of their own home.
And while the Anndore House pays homage to its history, which dates back to more than six decades, its service is nothing less modern, and focused on the future. From check-in to unlocking the doors, dimming the lighting, adjusting the temperature and exploring the hospitality staff’s recommendations for living like a local, everything about a guest’s stay can be controlled through a custom-designed app.
Seize the day, spend the night — that’s the idea here!
The History
Prior to The Anndore House being reimagined as one of Toronto’s most stylish and buzzed-about auberges, it was previously known as The Anndore Hotel & Apartments, an inviting 10-story brick building that opened in 1955. In fact, several of Toronto’s most eccentric personalities and famous faces once called it home. Now boasting 11 floors and 113 chic guest rooms, one thing that hasn’t changed is its appeal for visitors wanting a unique downtown stay, or locals seeking a stylish gathering place in the heart of the city. Indeed, some of the very best Toronto has to offer can be explored just steps away.
The Design
Alessandro Munge of the award-winning Studio Munge, which specializes in luxury hospitality amongst other niches, designed the common spaces using rich jewel tones. The result? A hotel imbued with warmth and eclectic character throughout, and that emulates a sensible familial home.
With a portfolio spanning everything from multi-unit residential developments, townhomes, single family homes and private residences to retail showrooms, spas and corporate endeavours, Cecconi Simone have certainly earned their reputation as one of Toronto’s premier interior design firms. That said, owners and operators Elaine Cecconi and Anna Simone didn’t rest on their laurels here. Ranging from 225-to-500 square feet, each accommodating loft-like room and suite resembles an industrially designed, calm oasis. They not only feature a king or queen bed, spacious closets and living spaces, but encourage guests to spin records and take in city views from comfy, deep leather chairs.
Showcasing dimensional subway tile, rain forest showers and exposed brass faucets, the Cecconi Simone-conceived bathrooms are every bit as on-trend as inherently timeless.
The Dining
Envisioned as an epicurean journey from Italy to the Middle East — one which soulfully amalgamates the flavours of both — Constantine is just the second venture from the culinary creators of the wildly popular La Palma in the west end of Toronto. Studio Munge was also responsible for its authentic interior, which seats no less than 145 guests opposite an open-concept kitchen, itself surrounding an aromatic wood-fire grill and premium grade pizza oven. On the menu, refreshing dishes thoughtfully walk the line between traditional and innovative, while the space’s maroon velvet walls come dressed with playful gallery art curated by GZ International.
