Constructed
in 1870, this Montreal building now houses
an elegant four-star hotel. Built by the
inspiration of the architectural firm
named Hopkins & Willy and funded by
a company once called “Great Scotish
Life Insurance”, the building served
as a headquarters for said company, who
wished to display an air of both wealth
and class. The building was modified in
1909, when it gained two extra stories;
its interior spaces were increased without
“compromising the delicate balance
of the original architectural elements”.
In 1975 the building was classified by
the provincial government as a historical
site. Thirty years later the building
was transformed into one of the best hotels
in Canada.
Changing
the building from office space to a hotel
was difficult due to its historical significance.
While the outside of the building would
remain intact, the inside needed to be
completely changed so that it could suit
its new function. Also, the new interiors
(which had to accommodate all sorts of
modern conveniences) needed to match with
the hotels historic interior. As is mentioned
in the website: “We insisted that
when the hotel clients entered the lobby,
nothing would break the spell cast by
the view of the hotel’s exterior.
This spirit was continued throughout the
hotel - all modern conveniences being
brought into harmony with the existing
elements. The cozy interior now renovates
with warm period colors, textures, woodwork,
marble, wood floors with throw-rugs.”
Today you can visit the Place de Armes
Hotel to get a feeling of what it must
have looked like in the days of Canada’s
founding. Just keep in mind thought that
there weren’t as many hot showers.
Place
D'Arms Travel Links |
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