Shangri-La Hotel Toronto
Zhang Huan’s breathtaking sculpture Rising defines the glittering exterior of this 66-story hotel-condo. The abstract, glass-straddling dragon swarmed by doves is part of the building; these peace-bestowing birds continue into the lobby, denoting a tonal shift. Inside, the Shangri-La is a peaceful respite from the tumult of the city. The chic lobby, with its extra-long fireplace, is the place to relax over live music. The Shangri-La brings Hong Kong panache to Toronto, showcasing over 480 Wang Xu Yuan lithographs, as well as museum-caliber vitrines containing priceless ancient artifacts. Design details, too, pull on an Asian theme: Cherry blossoms adorn wallpaper and consoles, while Chinese tracery patterns are found on doors, knobs, and carpets. The furniture, too, looks Qing Dynasty regal. Opulent details include raw silk-upholstered walls, white-oak millwork, and marble from around the world—the iron-red-striped black marble from Madagascar is particularly mesmerizing. Rooms are amply sized (starting at 49 sq. m/525 sq. ft.) and come equipped with every possible technological bell and whistle. Drapes, lights, and heating can be controlled through the wall-mounted panels or via the tablet, which can also be used to summon an ice bucket, checkout quickly, or order a dog walker. Bedside clocks come with all possible charging dongles and Bluetooth connectivity. Sun-drenched marble bathrooms are spectacular, but the best luxuriating happens on the fifth floor. There, you’ll find the Turkish-inspired Miraj Hammam and the spectacular glass-encased saltwater pool. Between the lush tropical plants, waterfall feature, and private cabanas, the place feels more Bali beach resort than downtown Toronto.
Zhang Huan’s breathtaking sculpture Rising defines the glittering exterior of this 66-story hotel-condo. The abstract, glass-straddling dragon swarmed by doves is part of the building; these peace-bestowing birds continue into the lobby, denoting a tonal shift. Inside, the Shangri-La is a peaceful respite from the tumult of the city. The chic lobby, with its extra-long fireplace, is the place to relax over live music. The Shangri-La brings Hong Kong panache to Toronto, showcasing over 480 Wang Xu Yuan lithographs, as well as museum-caliber vitrines containing priceless ancient artifacts. Design details, too, pull on an Asian theme: Cherry blossoms adorn wallpaper and consoles, while Chinese tracery patterns are found on doors, knobs, and carpets. The furniture, too, looks Qing Dynasty regal. Opulent details include raw silk-upholstered walls, white-oak millwork, and marble from around the world—the iron-red-striped black marble from Madagascar is particularly mesmerizing. Rooms are amply sized (starting at 49 sq. m/525 sq. ft.) and come equipped with every possible technological bell and whistle. Drapes, lights, and heating can be controlled through the wall-mounted panels or via the tablet, which can also be used to summon an ice bucket, checkout quickly, or order a dog walker. Bedside clocks come with all possible charging dongles and Bluetooth connectivity. Sun-drenched marble bathrooms are spectacular, but the best luxuriating happens on the fifth floor. There, you’ll find the Turkish-inspired Miraj Hammam and the spectacular glass-encased saltwater pool. Between the lush tropical plants, waterfall feature, and private cabanas, the place feels more Bali beach resort than downtown Toronto.
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