In the bustling heart of Toronto, a new kind of luxury has taken root: 1 Hotel Toronto. This sixth property in the 1 Hotels portfolio, opened in partnership with Mohari Hospitality, defines responsible hospitality, weaving together sophisticated design with a commitment to environmental conservation. It sets a strong example of how a city escape can truly connect guests with nature, all while setting a new benchmark for sustainable luxury

From the moment you step into 1 Hotel Toronto, the biophilic design, a collaboration with award-winning Rockwell Group and project managed by The Athens Group, envelops you. The property's aesthetic pays homage to Toronto’s local environment and natural beauty, utilizing raw materials and textures sourced primarily from Ontario. There’s rustic charm all abound but also a deeply considered design philosophy: the muted shades of blue, reminiscent of the lake, and the contrasting colors of the passing seasons are reflected throughout. Reclaimed timber, native plants, board-formed concrete, and local marble create an earth-toned palette that feels both refined and comfortably curated.

The conscious selection of materials is evident everywhere. An Eramosa stone wall, carved by glacial activity along the nearby Eramosa River, provides a stunning backdrop to the reception desk and graces the lobby lounge’s fireplace. Elm wood from a dismantled barn in Blyth, Ontario, has been repurposed as shelving and flooring, adding a layer of rich history and local character. Furthermore, local woodworking studio Just Be Woodsy transformed fallen Toronto trees into over 1,000 unique, hand-crafted furnishings – from dining tables to host desks – infusing every space with a sense of place and authenticity.

Beyond the visible design, 1 Hotel Toronto’s commitment to sustainability is deeply embedded in its operations. The hotel aims to divert over 85% of waste from landfills, a remarkable feat in urban hospitality. On-site composting transforms all organic wet waste into reusable soil, which nourishes the more than 3,300 plants cultivated by International Landscaping throughout the hotel’s interior and exterior. This vibrant greenery, including native species like Armstrong Maple and Eastern Red Bud, not only enhances the aesthetic but also supports local ecosystems by using less water.

The guest rooms themselves are also a masterclass in mindful luxury, we discovered, when we toured the largest suite, Birch Suite. Stunningly serene with tactile inspiration abound, the space is designed to evoke a lakeside escape, featuring heated floors, organic cotton linens, yoga mats, and customized organic bath products. The in-room water filtration system, coupled with tumblers and carafes crafted from reclaimed wine bottles, significantly reduces the need for single-use plastics. Chalkboards replace traditional notepads, and mini-bar items are predominantly local, minimizing transportation emissions. Even the hangers are made from recycled materials, and large amenity bottles are refillable, showcasing a comprehensive approach to waste reduction.

The hotel’s culinary offerings further underscore its sustainable ethos. The Garden Pavilion, an on-site organic garden, supplies fresh, seasonal ingredients to the hotel's four dining concepts, including 1 Kitchen Toronto, Flora Lounge, Harriet's Rooftop, and Casa Madera. This direct farm-to-table approach ensures freshness and minimizes the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. The "Bee Hotel" and Honey Farm, designed by Montreal-based apiarists Alvéole, highlight a dedication to supporting local pollinators, while all kitchen operations adhere to stringent compost and zero-waste practices.

From the sophisticated, nature-inspired design to its ambitious waste diversion programs and local partnerships, 1 Hotel Toronto is an immersive experience that redefines what it means to travel responsibly, proving that comfort, luxury and quality service can coexist with the commitment to preserving our planet.