The historic Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, is probably the most elegant, thoughtfully designed hotel I have ever stayed in. From the moment you arrive to the time you leave; you feel the positive energy of the building and those who have taken care of it over the years.
I am so inspired and fired up to help my next client transform their historic home into something as beautiful as this. This type of project requires impeccable attention to detail and I love to get lost in the details of design.
Known as the Notre Dame Convent this gorgeous brick building was constructed in 1857 and served as a private school for young girls under the Sisters of the Notre Dame. In 1911 an addition was added to the main building and became known as the 1911 Chapel. Many of the students were residents in the building during the school year.
In 1971 the school closed its doors after 120 years. Over the next 40 years the building was home to the sisters who raised money by opening its doors to community groups and associations. In 2014 they decided it was time to sell the building.
In 2017 the building reopened as hotel suites and apartments following a 3-year, $11.5 million renovation. The respect and appreciation paid to the original design and feel of the building is truly remarkable. Much of the trim was salvaged and re-used and replicated where needed. You can see and feel the dents in the solid wood from which the door casings were made in the 1800’s which adds to the feeling of reverence you have for the history of the building.
The original plaster was removed in order to insulate the building and install a state-of-the-art heat pump system and all new wiring. The vinyl windows that had been installed were removed and replaced with all wood windows. The original structural walls were maintained, and the interior was designed accordingly.
The interior decor is also truly remarkable. Each and every detail is perfection from the original watercolour paintings of local scenery, the elegant wool carpeting, crystal chandeliers, custom-built furnishings, down to the custom draperies.
Spending the night in this wonderful heritage property felt like a true privilege. You are enveloped by the solid structure and the quiet and peace you feel is difficult to describe. It is definitely worth a visit and my next stay will be longer than one night. For more details visit their website http://sydneyinn.com/ .
Isn’t it beautiful?? We stayed 3 nights mid-October, during Atlantic Bubble time. Truly elegant!