TORONTO — DesignAgency has revealed its re-imagining of Hilton Toronto’s lobby, featuring Frenchy bar and brasserie, in collaboration with hotel owner Barney River and Scale Hospitality.
The re-design transforms the lobby into a full-service destination. The focus of the transformation is Frenchy, an early-morning to late night, Parisian-inspired bar and brasserie. It’s complemented by a lounge, an improved check-in experience and a boutique marketplace.
The project began with strategic upgrades to the lobby’s structure. The design team lightened and illuminated the building’s rigid pre-cast concrete walls and ceiling to soften the ambiance. They also removed a bulky central staircase, opening sightlines for an airier feeling and improving the flow between entrances and amenities. New counter seating at entrances to the PATH walkway network invites passersby to linger. In the check-in area, a series of smaller desks replaced the traditional single long counter, allowing for attentive one-to-one service and better spacing when groups arrive.
Frenchy’s oval-shaped bar shifts from coffee to cocktails. Lounge and dining areas feature deep banquettes and armchairs, providing a range of seating options. A mural and botanical light fixtures offer memorable visuals. Lined with lacquered cabinets showcasing Frenchy’s wine library, the private dining room offers a setting for meetings, tastings and special occasions. Its palette of deep red, modern floral upholstery, warm woods and polished stones uplifts the space with renewed sophistication.
“It was exciting to work with Hilton Toronto to bring renewed polish, luxury and service to its downtown Toronto flagship property. Inspired by the hotel’s location and history, the re-design not only transforms the lobby for hotel guests, but enriches the city’s hospitality scene with a dynamic new destination that brings together locals and visitors alike,” says Matt Davis, founding partner, DesignAgency.
