The DNA: A landmark since 1958, The Fairmont Queen Elizabeth – aka Le Reine Elizabeth – has come full circle thanks to a recent $140 million refurbishment that has promptly nudged the hotel into the 21st century with a slick new look that connects the lobby and the lower level public spaces with a striking staircase. The guestrooms highlight the building’s modernist heritage with a subtle colour palette dominant from that era, and mid century-style furnishings.

Seen: archello, archilovers, dezeen

• Wi-Fi at a charge • size matters: 950 rooms & suites (23-139m2) (248-1,496 sq ft) • hotel opened: 1958 • architecture & interior design: Sid Lee Architecture • parking possible on-site (charged) • pets allowed • 24-hour front desk • wheelchair accessible