The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel will invest $5 million into renovating its Rundle Bar this spring.
The Rundle Bar is the hotel's main drinking establishment located on two levels in the heart of the Banff Springs. It will remain closed until the reopening expected in May, 2020.
The space was originally the hotel's front lobby from 1928-2000.
Calgary-based Frank Architecture, which also redesigned the Vermillion Room in 2018 and Castello Italiana in 2019, is leading the renovation for the Rundle Bar, which will remain closed during construction.
The new design features a main bar with a two-storey bar display and rolling library ladder, a new cocktail bar on the Mezzanine II level with views of Cascade Mountain and a dedicated stage featuring a grand piano between the two levels.
The hotel's executive chef Robert Ash will also unveil a new menu featuring classic lounge favourites along with globally influenced Pan Asian dishes. The bar itself will serve both classic and novel hand-crafted cocktails, local craft beer and an extensive wine list.
The Banff Springs' Afternoon Tea will also return from noon-3 p.m. daily to continue the 132 year old ritual at the Castle.
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The Bow Valley Connections Centre received a $1,000 donation from the Christian Labour Association of Canada.
The money comes from the organization's Building Communities program. The local program was nominated by CLAC Local 301 member Tanya Stahl, who works at Save-on-Foods.
“Very few opportunities exist for youth and young adults with developmental disabilities to build friendships in the Bow Valley,” Stahl said. “Every week, youth and young adults from the Bow Valley have been engaging in social activities such as theatre, drumming, bowling, or crafts, as a way to develop meaningful relationships. Bow Valley Connections Centre is a non-profit organization that generates opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to build on existing friendships and foster new relationships. They create a safe, nurturing environment where individuals can feel welcome and empowered to make a difference in their community.”
