Kimpton Saint George hotel has transformed a Holiday Inn into a whimsical 14-storey boutique hotel with new and uniquely Torontonian discoveries around every corner.

With 188 rooms, it’s Toronto’s outpost of the international Kimpton brand based in San Francisco.

Immediately upon entry design feels thoughtful and organic, yet sophisticated and a little secretive, with a distinct theme of archways that lend an Art Deco feel. Rich with texture and lots of varied marble, every space is choc full of Canadian art and scattered with hardcover books.

Bird-themed landscape murals by Tisha Myles in calming and luxurious shades of gold guide visitors through the hotel. Find the blue jay hidden in one behind the front desk as you check in.

The elevator bank has an Honest Ed’s feel with rows of lightbulbs, perfect for a selfie moment as you’re waiting for the doors to open.

A one bedroom suite is apparently quite typical at 594 square feet with king size bed.

The suite includes a separated living area with a sofa bed, the highlight being a private fully stocked bar with professional bar equipment, local spirits and a marble seating area so guests can actually face each other and talk.

Dillon’s and Spirit of York gins showcase local distilleries.

The other highlight has to be the selection of Canadian vinyl and record player in every suite, curated with the help of Sonic Boom.

Rooms are equipped with walk in showers and Atelier Bloem bath products. A deep soaking tub comes with the Presidential Suite.

Knobs are on the opposite side of shower heads for once, to avoid the quintessential problem of getting doused with freezing water in an unfamiliar hotel shower.

The one-of-a-kind presidential suite boasts a whopping 903 square feet. A beautiful meeting table takes centre stage in the living area, wicker cabinet doors opening to reveal a multimedia station for presentations.

Not only is there a full bar in here but a kitchenette too.

A fun and unique bike sharing program makes it easy to power your own way around the sights of Toronto, from the main artery of Bloor to the quieter surrounding university side streets.

The Kimpton team partnered with Mason Studio for the design of the hotel, drawing connections with the spirit of Toronto through everything from material touches to vintage polaroids of a family’s trip to the city dotted throughout the hallways.

A mural by Toronto street artist birdO on the exterior of the hotel punctuates the building’s transformation.