About our rating systemThe boutique hotel chain's first Canadian property occupies one of Ottawa's busiest street corners and is the only downtown hotel to be retrofitted into a heritage building. The renovation was of major proportions -- opening the center of the structure into a spectacular atrium. The light that floods the lobby and exposed upper corridors is symbolic of the chain's emphasis on nature and renewal. The corporate philosophy of the Indigo chain -- which espouses belief in the power of Fibonacci numbers to define everything in nature -- can seem a bit cultish, but look past the hotel's branding mumbo jumbo, and you'll find a restful hotel with some pleasant designer touches. The beds are large and sumptuous, and the dark hardwood flooring is a welcome change from ubiquitous industrial-strength broadloom, as are the operational windows. Thirteen of the hotel's rooms have Jacuzzis, and all are equipped with ergonomically pleasing glass-and-tile shower stalls. Spa-quality Aveda products abound. The in-room electronics -- including CD/MP3 players and flat-screen TVs -- are contemporary, but the nature of the building means that Wi-Fi is accessible only in the lobby; however, the wired Internet service in the rooms is complimentary. Indigo prides itself on exceptional service, but there are some compromises in this location: While the fitness center is open 24/365, room service operates only during the hours of the in-house restaurant, Phi.
