Fans of contemporary-design boutique hotels are already spoiled for choice in Montreal, but most often they’re confined to the scenic-but-sleepy old quarter. The Opus Montreal, by contrast, stands at the top of St. Laurent, what’s essentially the city’s main drag; maybe not where you’d stand to take a postcard photo, but right in the middle of everything you’ll want to do.

It’s an unmissable building, actually two buildings in one: the distinctive 1914 Art Nouveau residence was the first poured concrete structure in North America, and grafted to its side is the 21st-century equivalent, a grey brick monolith capped with an aluminum canopy, a striking visual contrast but a good match in spirit.

The interiors are no less striking, in concrete and glass, grey stone and metal, with spare modern furniture and just one 1914-vintage detail, a magnificent spiral staircase. Rooms differ between the old and the new building, some a toned-down Art Nouveau, others more stark beneath bare concrete ceilings, all outfitted with the lot: flat-screen televisions, wireless internet access and bathrooms straight from the showroom floor. Now open is the Suco Lounge, serving drinks and a globe-spanning small plates menu in a stylish and dramatic split-level space — perfect for a quick bite in, or a start to a big night out.

Style: Cutting-Edge

Atmosphere: Happening

136 Rooms - Rates starting at Can$ 140.03 (approx. US$ 137)