More than 400 guests showed up recently at the Vanity Fair Ballroom in Toronto’s Le Méridien King Edward Hotel for a retro-themed party to celebrate the new owners’ plans for refurbishing the entire building. King Edward Realty Inc., comprised of partners Dundee Realty Corporation, Alex Shnaider, Skyline International Development Inc., and Serruya Realty Group Inc., brought back the best of the 1960s and 1970s to highlight some of The King Eddy’s most exciting times.

People danced to the music of a Beatles tribute band, which hearkened back to 1964 when the Fab Four stayed here on their North American tour and 3,000 screaming fans stormed the lobby to get a peek at their idols. Party-goers were invited to get into bed with “John and Yoko” to commemorate the bed-in for peace that they held here, and everyone enjoyed the singing of “Marilyn Monroe.” Sixties-style refreshments added to the flashback festivities.

“The party honours the past, but we’re also excited about bringing The King Eddy into the future in a new way,” said Jason Lester, principal and Chief Operating Officer of Dundee Realty Corporation. “We plan to renovate the spectacular two storey lobby, spa and fitness center as well as the Royal Club lounge. We’re incredibly excited about breathing new life into this Toronto icon.”

The King Eddy was built by George Gooderham of Gooderham and Worts Distillery, and opened 107 years ago. The list of patrons who made this their temporary home includes royalty, politicians, movie stars, famous authors and financial celebrities. The new owners intend to preserve the building’s heritage, integrity and luxury, and have enlisted ERA Architects to direct the restoration.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts will continue to manage the 298-room hotel under the Le Méridien brand. The section that was formerly the site of a well-known fashion mart will be transformed into the 140 King Edward Private Residences. These exquisitely appointed suites will be priced from just the low-$400,000s — offering the best value in the downtown core for up to 50% less than other landmark luxury hotel/residences combo in the city.

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