TORONTO — Streetcar Developments and Dream Unlimited have purchased Toronto’s Gladstone Hotel, the city’s oldest, continually operating hotel in the city’s West Queen West community.
The Gladstone, currently owned by the Zeidler family, underwent a major renovation in 2005 led by architect Eb Zeidler, to preserve the landmark building’s historical significance. Under the vision and leadership of Christina Zeidler, the Gladstone Hotel became an internationally recognized cultural-tourism destination and a hospitality industry leader. The younger Zeidler has managed the business for the past 15 years, making it a hub for the arts in Canada and winning the Mayor’s Toronto Arts and Business Award in 2019.
“The decision to sell the hotel is a personal one,” says Christina Zeidler, president, Gladstone Hotel, who has plans to move on to other creative projects. “I looked for someone with the vision to carry on the legacy of the Gladstone Hotel — someone who understands the historic significance but also its cultural significance. It took a long time to build the culture around the Gladstone. The commitment to continue to grow this vision is a dream come true.”
“We have great respect for the West Queen West community and believe the Gladstone Hotel is a unique representation of the neighbourhood’s art, culture and diversity,” says Les Mallins, founder & president of Streetcar Developments. “We look forward to amplifying the hotel’s offerings with our refreshed vision, enhancing the current building while ensuring the property remains a staple within the community.”
Both Streetcar and Dream have a track record of supporting Toronto’s cultural community and restoring historic landmarks. In 2012, Streetcar Crowsnest opened its doors and has since become an arts-and-culture hub in the city’s east end. Dream’s Distillery District is Canada’s premier arts, culture and entertainment destination, which has the largest collection of Victorian architecture.
“We’re excited to add the Gladstone hotel to our portfolio of character buildings of historical significance, which includes the Bay Street Collection, Distillery District and the Broadview Hotel,” says Michael Cooper, Chief Responsible Officer of Dream Unlimited. “We believe in building inclusive communities and designing exceptional places to create, inspire and bring the community together.”
Streetcar and Dream transformed The Broadview Hotel, a 127-year-old landmark, into a luxury boutique hotel, bringing a much-needed amenity to Queen Street East and its community. By acquiring the Gladstone Hotel, the partnership retains ownership of two historic properties, bookmarking the city from east to west.
Streetcar and Dream are set to take ownership of the property later this month.
