The Historic Dominion Hotel

The historic Dominion Hotel building has seen significant changes since its construction in 1890, including a fire that destroyed the fourth storey. Torontonians will recognize it as the Dominion Pub, an east-end landmark with red bricks and elaborate sandstone features at the corner of Queen Street East and Sumach Street.

ERA was engaged to redesign the storefront and rehabilitate the stone and masonry above. Inspired by the building’s original design, the new storefront features recessed entrances, large glazed openings, ornate transom windows, and a paneled base. The design homages the building’s history while providing a contemporary, high-contrast streetscape. Many original interior finishes were conserved, including metal ceiling tiles, wood paneling, and terrazzo floors. The large windows let light flood the space, emphasizing the interior’s tall ceilings. The new entrances meet accessibility requirements, and the glazing and knee wall provide a high-efficiency building envelope. The conservation work on the above storeys involved the replacement of decorative cornices, sandstone repairs, and a robust water protection strategy to ensure long-lasting repairs.

With several developments in the surrounding area, 498 Queen Street East, will surely be a catalyst in this evolving neighbourhood.