Ode Hotel Toronto
Ode is a modern hotel in Toronto with characteristics that defy traditional expectations.
The building has eight guest rooms, each with its own aesthetic when it comes to the colour scheme, art and general vibe.
There's no front desk, valet parking or room service here, but co-owner Tiffany Ramsubick tells blogTO these extras are eliminated in order to keep the room prices affordable.
That was Ramsubick and her family's focus when they opened the hotel. Her mother Erica Herbert, sisters Chanelle and Brittney, plus brother Nicholas are all part owners in the business which they refer to as "their baby."
The family has owned the building for years before deciding to renovate and open Ode. The ethos of this place is to provide a space that feels like you're staying in a nicer version of your cool friend's house.
This is a great option for those looking to immerse themselves in the Dundas West neighbourhood like a local.
Walking into the hotel, you're greeted with a narrow stairwell and hallways. The pink-painted entryway is illuminated by pink neon lights.
Nearly every piece of custom furniture, accessories and renderings inside the rooms were designed by Toronto-based businesses.
Alisha Sturino of Studio Otty created the design plans. The furniture was made by Louis Interiors, Jacob Mailman and Studio Hand. All of the decorative objects, such as the vases, came from Souvenir Studios.
While each room has a different look, there are some common features.
Every room has a kitchenette equipped with a SMEG mini fridge, ceramic bowls, and plates along with wine glasses and mugs, plus a high-tech microwave and a coffee machine.
You'll also find a portable speaker inside of each room and a printed guide for food and entertainment recommendations in the area.
Rooms have bathrooms that are equipped with a stand-up shower with a removable head, a toilet, and a sink.
While a little tight in space, it does give you all that's needed in a hotel room if you'd be out exploring the city most of the day anyway.
I got to tour around half of the rooms inside of Ode, starting with the Global Room (starts at $290). Bright and airy, this is the only room that faces the main street, so you'll get a lot of natural light pouring into the space all day.
The mural hanging above the 260-square-foot room's queen size bed is Gillian Toliver.
Both the bed and the kitchenette that sits on the right side of the entrance have accents of yellow and blue.
Unbounded (starts at $270) has my favourite aesthetic. The 220-square-foot space has a double bed that's comfortable enough for two adults.
When you walk in, it feels like you've stepped into an outdoor oasis. I love the way the deep greens and shining emerald colours seem to beam out from the suede couch, closets and wall accents.
Speaking of the walls, it took artist Gaby Lo an entire month to hand paint all of the intricate designs on the wall which is made up of bamboo leaves, images of a tiger, palm trees and other tropical plants.
The Modernist (starts at $270) is 230 square feet of romantic vibes, moody lighting and a queen size bed.
The room has dark undertones with a sensual photograph taken by Jah Grey that features two of the family's friends.
There's a red lounger in the corner of this room.
The Rooted Room (starts at $250) is one of the smallest rooms offered at only 175 square feet. The walls are covered in vibrant orange motifs that are layered with abstract art figures designed by Justin Broadbent.
There's a smaller bench for added seating. The kitchen counter is shorter but still includes all the furnishings.
Although the Ode Hotel doesn't have any amenities, it does have a gorgeous rooftop patio that gives you a nice view of the Dundas West neighbourhood.
When guests aren't enjoying it, Ode often hosts corporate or brand events here like yoga sessions and parties.
You can find Ode Hotel just a shot hop away from Dundas Street West and Dufferin.
Fareen Karim