A thoughtful redo was well-executed. Lobby was comfortably bright, with a ‘library with fireplace’ off to the side. (Made a nice spot to gather). Check-in was a effortless, with very attentive and pleasant front desk staff. The room was spotless, without chemical cleaner or room deodorizer smells. Built-ins well designed, all furnishings comfortable, clean, current, with great lighting. Love the fresh feeling the plantation shutters gave the room. (They were perfect room darkeners, too.) The building was quiet: no hall or street noise. Welcoming Pub/restaurant space downstairs with some creative food choices. The restaurant staff is another way this hotels shines. For a downtown hotel, the cost to stay at The Strathcona is very reasonable. I will be happy to return to The Strathcona whenever travel brings me to Toronto.

Good: Awesome location, stylish common areas, very safe at all times of day/night. Staff were pretty accommodating, the room was very clean and the bed was not amazing but comfy and sturdy. Bad: The rooms are pretty dark and the forced coverings were annoying. While I was facing a back alley and other rooms of the hotel, it would have been nice to be able to adjust the window covers as much as I want. Would have added natural light and air to the room.