One King West Hotel & Residence

The 1 King West Condos was built in 2005, against all odds: critical onlookers viewed the project as an impossible one that would result in nothing more than some abandoned blueprints. In the end, the building was not only completed, but also won awards, as well as praise from then-mayor David Miller and the public at large. The 51-storey structure contains 575 units, and is inhabited by both homeowners and hotel guests on any given day.

The contemporary, slender tower rises from its historical base: the former Toronto Dominion Bank headquarters. With over 100 years behind it, the original, 1914-built structure can still be appreciated from within the lobby of the condos and hotel at 1 King Street West. Thankfully, the repurposing process of 1 King West has been undertaken with preservation in mind, and as a result details like the ornate ceiling and original vault can be enjoyed for years to come.

For those who love to host without messing up their homes, the vault can even be rented out for private events. Alternatively, residents might want to emulate a party thrown by Roxy Earle of the Real Housewives of Toronto, which was held on the 15th floor.

Even the interiors were honoured with a Design Exchange Interior Design Award of Merit in 2008. Fleur-de-lis Interior Design Inc. was granted this award for its work on a two-bedroom hotel suite that features a whole lot of stainless steel and marble.

While friends and neighbours might use Airbnb to bring in some extra cash from time to time, residents of the One King West Hotel & Residence can benefit from the building’s Hotel Rental Pool program. Owners who opt into this program have the chance to earn spending money while they are away by renting out their home, while leaving the details to the hotel management and staff. This goes for long-term stints as well, meaning residents who feel like spending a year in the Tuscan countryside need not worry about dealing with subletters.

As with other hotel/condominium combination building, residents have access to a range of luxurious amenities. These include valet parking, housekeeping, a concierge service, and an expansive business centre and exercise facilities. Even trips to the airport are made easier, thanks to the hotel’s private limousine services.

Stinson Properties was behind the construction of the condos, and is a well-trusted firm with beloved Toronto buildings on its roster, including The Candy Factory Lofts and High Park Lofts. The building is dedicated to being environmentally responsible, and as a result residents have access to multiple charging stations for electric cars.