"Tell us about the new-and-improved Fairmont.In 2017, this classic 1960s hotel got a major renovation by Sid Lee, a young, playful agency that created a totally fresh vibe, including new gathering spaces. Today, the high-traffic hotel, which is located next to the train station, has a young, cool crowd and more energy than ever. How have the rooms fared in the transformation?You can get fancy and book a stay in the very room John Lennon and Yoko Ono stayed in for their famous Bed-In. The renovated Fairmont Rooms, meanwhile, are decorated with geometric wood furnishings and colorful abstract wallpaper. Anything else notable?A brand-new business hub has 85,000 square feet of meeting spaces, including refurbished business rooms with large boardroom tables, as well as pods for one-on-one brainstorming. The Swing room even has—you guessed it—swings. What about the food and drink options?There are plenty of choices here: Rosélys Restaurant for a sit-down meal of roasted octopus and spinach shoots; Nacarat for a jerk-chicken sandwich and mean cocktail; Kréma for a quick, strong coffee; and Artisans, a market with made-in-Montreal gourmet foods. With so much going on, how does the renovated Fairmont fit into the local scene?This hotel, which spans a full block, is a true hub; in fact, locals often walk through the lobby just to soak up a little glamour on their way to or from lunch. The bar and restaurant are popular after-work hangouts, and the renovation has turned the property into a commodious stay for the business set." - Isa Tousignant
