Hotel Birks Montreal History
Hotel Birks Montreal History — A Legacy of Elegance Since 1879
Where timeless heritage meets modern luxury.
For nearly a century and a half, the corner of Phillips Square has stood as a symbol of Montreal’s refinement and artistry. In 1879, visionary jeweler Henry Birks opened his first boutique on St-James Street before relocating his flagship to this iconic site in 1894 — a space that would become synonymous with elegance and craftsmanship. For nearly 150 years, Hotel Birks Montreal History has been woven into the fabric of the city. From its origins as Henry Birks’ celebrated jewelry store to its rebirth as Montréal’s first North American five-star boutique hotel, the building’s story is one of preservation, transformation, and enduring beauty.
Origins
1879: The Spark of a Legacy
The story of Hotel Birks Montreal History begins in 1879, when visionary jeweler Henry Birks opened his first boutique on St. James Street. What began as a single storefront quickly grew into a symbol of refinement and craftsmanship, laying the foundation for one of Canada’s most enduring luxury brands.
A landmark on Phillips Square
1894: Architectural Grandeur by Edward Maxwell
By 1894, Birks had moved its flagship store to the corner of Phillips Square. Designed by renowned Montréal architect Edward Maxwell, the building became a cultural landmark—anchored alongside Morgan’s department store (now Hudson’s Bay). For more than a century, it stood as a gathering place for Montrealers and visitors alike.
Preservation & Renewal
2016–2019: A Vision Restored
When hotelier Jean Salette purchased the building in 2016, its grandeur had been faded by decades of modifications. Determined to preserve its historic character while giving it new life, he led a two-year restoration with a team of architects and designers.
This ambitious transformation introduced Montreal’s first North American five-star boutique hotel, a milestone in Hotel Birks Montreal History and a seamless union of heritage and modern sophistication.
A Living Legacy
Today: Hotel Birks Montreal
Today, Hotel Birks Montréal embodies the perfect union of heritage and modern luxury. The celebrated Birks jewelry store remains, joined by Henri Brasserie Française and the hotel’s welcoming accommodations. Each space reflects the enduring elegance of Henry Birks’ vision, inviting guests to experience history reborn in the heart of downtown Montréal.
Experience the Legacy
Step into history reborn. At Hotel Birks Montréal, every stay is an invitation to experience the elegance of a landmark restored—where timeless heritage meets modern luxury in the heart of the city.
