The civic space of the Ace Hotel Toronto is defined by a rhythmic series of soaring, poured-in-place, steel-edged concrete structural arches rise from below grade to a level above. Each frame terminates with an oversize industrial steel “knuckle” that transfers the load from the hotel rooms above to the foundations below. Initially set in wood forms, the concrete features the appearance of textural wood grain, mixing and matching material and pattern playfully. Nestled between the steel-edged concrete arches, the hotel lobby is a wooden tray, hung from the central concrete structure by a series of slender steel rods. Intended to feel as if it were slipped into an existing structure, blurring the sensation of time, the lobby’s suspension creates lightness within the massive and muscular space. Shim-Sutcliffe created their own kite-inspired lights formed from opaque plexiglass and wood, which hang directly over the lobby bar and gently illuminate the space with a lantern-like glow. Tie rod-supported stairs descend from the lobby into the sunken restaurant. The movement of visitors in front of the piece creates a synergistic relationship between the two – inviting guests into the work, whether they’re aware of it or not. The open kitchen, and dining room at the lower level are crafted from earthen materials to echo the rustic yet refined nature of the restaurant dining room space. The 14th floor rooftop bar features both indoor and outdoor lounges and is anchored by two massive brick fireplaces. At the northern and southern ends of the space with integrated art works.