TORONTO — Union Hotel, an independent lifestyle property inspired by Toronto’s diverse culture, is now open at 60 York Street. Steps from Union Station, the 189-room hotel champions individuality, creativity and meaningful connections.
“Union Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s a place to connect,” says general manager Kevin Slean. “Our mission is to inspire ambition, nurture courage and empower our guests to defy convention while discovering the local neighbourhood gems this global city offers.”
Designed by FRANK Architecture & Interiors, the 12-storey building has been updated with charcoal brick and expansive windows. Beyond the framed view of the interior is a thoughtfully created space with a warm palette and quirky, nostalgic details inspired by the past.
Emily Mae Rose’s raccoon mural pays homage to Toronto’s unofficial mascot while Victoria Day’s mural is inspired by the proximity to Union Station and Hello Kirsten’s mural is an expression of the hotel’s textile industry past.
Toronto industrial designer Gino Marocco hand-crafted each team member’s uniform. Using durable materials such as denim, canvas and sateen, no two uniforms are exactly alike. Marocco upcycled excess fabric to create a limited-edition line of tote bags, available at the Union Hotel Marketplace near the front desk.
For its guestrooms, the hotel worked with Whence, a hospitality marketplace and procurement studio, to curate and co-design products such as Montreal-based circular design company Cyrc’s soap dishes, trays and tissue box covers, bamboo toilet paper, amenities by woman-owned Routine Natural Beauty, a bespoke tea and third wave coffee experience with temperature controlled kettles and alarm clocks that provide guests with sleep sounds and stories.
Additionally, the hotel’s Split Flat Display at the front desk gives guests a travel-themed ASMR experience at check-in. The Marketplace in the lobby provides an array of small snack and drink options. In partnership with the Giller Prize, each room will have a Giller Prize-listed or winning book waiting to be read. The selection of authors includes Margaret Atwood, Joseph Boyden, Wayson Choy, Omar El Akkad, André Alexis, Shani Mootoo and Miriam Toews. A CanLit Library filled with Giller Prize books is featured by the front desk.
The lobby features several distinct spaces, including Humble Donkey Café and Lounge, the communal table and private work booths. The second floor offers the 6ix, a social space with outdoor courtyard access that can be rented out for private events, and a fitness centre equipped for yoga, weight training and wellness.
“We’ve paid exceptional attention to the details to ensure our guests have every opportunity to explore Toronto on their own. It’s about living without a script because that’s where the best experiences happen,” says Slean. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve brought to life; it reflects our team’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for both travellers and city residents. By championing boldness and individuality, Union Hotel is re-defining what I means to stay and play in the heart of Toronto.”
