Smoke and Mirrors

That expression is usually associated with deception or an attempt to fool an audience in a clever manner, but in this case it's being used to describe the design features and colour schemes of the new guestrooms unveiled - and occupied for the first time this week - at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel. In fact there are two colour schemes, red and blue, supported by smoky sheers, grey marble, and inlaid mirrors.

Local art adorns the walls, including black and white photography celebrating the hotel's history as one of Canada's famed railway hotels. Thoughtfully, there are abundant (and discreet) electrical outlets for all your devices, an ample desk with ergonomically designed chair, and even a bedside work station.

The guestroom hallways have been completely gutted and redesigned as well, from carpet to wall-covering, crown molding and light fixtures.

Eighty (80) renovated guestrooms are available now for groups of up 50 rooms on peak.  This kind of a block is nicely "paired" with the hotel's executive meeting space on the 19th floor.  By mid-June there will be another 120 new rooms available.