Dominion Hotel

Located at the corner of Queen Street East and Sumach Street, the historic Dominion Hotel building (c. 1890) is a prominent landmark in Toronto’s east end, distinguished by its red-brick facade and elaborate sandstone detailing. I served as the heritage signage consultant, designing a comprehensive signage strategy that integrates seamlessly with the building's historic character. In this role, I advised on the selection of a clean, sans-serif typeface that references the building's original carved stone signage. To establish the material palette, scale, and optimal placement of the new signage, I prepared detailed colour elevation drawings. Utilizing my regulatory expertise, I then coordinated directly with the sign fabricator, collaborated closely with the building owner, and negotiated with municipal staff across both the heritage and sign permit offices to secure a rapid, seamless approvals process.

Inspired by the building's original late-Victorian design, the restored storefront features deeply recessed entrances, large glazed openings, ornate transom windows, and a traditional panelled wood base. This architectural intervention pays homage to the building’s rich history, successfully balancing rigorous heritage preservation with modern building performance and accessibility standards.