A LOCAL PASSION
In restoring the old hotel, it was really important for me to work with local craftsmen who fully understand and care about the heritage of the building and Elora. I am consistently amazed by the incredible talent we have right here in our small town and knew from the start that I wanted this project to showcase their skills. CENTRIX was our first step, a family-run business started by Otto and now managed by his son, Seth, with Seth overseeing the project He set the tone with his personal passion and great expertise. MSS Architects came next, led by Jason, who also lives locally in Elora with his family. Their knowledge of local architecture and the unique challenges of this building made them an invaluable part of our team.
STONE
We also collaborated with BEN StoneWorks, a father-son duo with deep roots in our community. Brian started the company when he was young and now works alongside his son, Joel. They painstakingly restored and enhanced much of the original stonework, bringing back the character and charm of this wonderful old building. TACOMA Engineers, another local group, tackled the complex structural challenges that come with renovating a historic site like this, ensuring the hotel will stand strong for many years to come. 13 Design, an all-women design firm, brought fresh, brilliant ideas to the project. Their passion and creativity were evident from the start, and it was inspiring to work with a team so driven to push the boundaries of what this space could become.
CRAFTSMANSHIP
Working with locals wasn’t just about getting the job done; it was about elevating their work and ensuring that their craftsmanship would be seen and celebrated. Growing up, my dad was a contractor, and I remember him often pointing out houses he had built. I wanted that same pride and legacy for these talented artisans - a clear hand in the evolution of our town. Every detail, from the stonework to the structural integrity, reflects their dedication to a shared vision of creating a space that reaches its full potential as a community hub. By investing in local talent, we’re not just restoring a building; we’re creating a space for cultural groups and establishing a true center for town life that reflects the heart and soul of Elora.
