Crystal Ballroom
The Omni King Edward Hotel unveiled its fully-restored Crystal Ballroom at a grand re-launch event held yesterday.
The ballroom is located on the hotel’s 17th floor. Opened in 1922, it hosted many of Toronto’s most prestigious events from the 1920s through the 1970s. The $6.5 million renovation has restored the space to its former spendour.
“This project centered around restoring a significant space in Toronto’s history; a space which played an integral part in bolstering its colourful social life,” said Christophe Le Chatton, general manager of The Omni King Edward Hotel. “We are looking forward to the positive impact this wonderful, revived space will have on the city and the momentous occasions it will once again be a part of.”
Pre-function space
Similar to the newly renovated hotel property that underwent a $40 million transformation in 2015, the Crystal Ballroom’s restoration has been heavily influenced by its original interior featuring old-world charm, enhanced by modern style and luxury. The venue’s ornate and spectacular mouldings, eight-metre high coffered ceilings and magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer panoramic views of the lake and the city, remain central features.
Additional highlights include a pre-function space, finished in mosaic tile, and a new permanent bar reflecting the timeless details of the original era. The updated carpet is reminiscent of designs from the early 1920s and surrounding chandeliers and wall sconces are embellished with ornate crystal elements. The 5,000 square foot Crystal Ballroom can accommodate up to 300 people.
When The King Edward initially opened in 1903, it set the standard for luxury hotels in Canada and was Toronto’s first hotel of its kind. It was designed by Chicago architect Henry Ives Cobb and Toronto architect E.J. Lennox for developer George Gooderham’s Toronto Hotel Company at a cost of $6 million. ERA Architects, Moncur Design Associates Inc. and Omni Hotels & Resorts are responsible for the new look and design of The Omni King Edward Hotel’s Crystal Ballroom.
Leave a Reply