World-class renovation breathes new life into one of Alberta’s most luxurious spaces

In a town full of postmodern and brutalist architecture, an Edwardian-era brick paradise is waiting to host your next event.

The Pendennis Building at 9660 Jasper Avenue is full of contrasting features, both inside and out.

Historic, but give it a modern flair (and amenities).
Opulence, but make sure it’s stylish.
Montreal à la mode, but drop it in the heart of Edmonton Downtown.

Historic details in a modern setting at The Pendennis Building.

On one end, indoor and outdoor spaces overlook sweeping views of the River Valley while the windows at the other end peer into a skyline of city centre towers. It’s those juxtapositions that make the venue such a treat: old & new, trendy & classic, trees & concrete.

The OG Pendennis

The building was originally built in 1898 as a small, wooden rooming house, evidence of which can still be seen from the roof. In 1912, it was rebuilt with the brick façade we can see today. This renovation doubled the size of the hotel and it began growing into its new reputation as the most luxurious hotel in Alberta.

Back in the day at The Pendennis Building.

The Pendennis Hotel quickly became famous for its food and parties, but the prohibition era of the 1920s put an end to lavish celebrations. It began going through several different lives as it was converted into apartments, then another hotel and renamed several times. It reverted back to its original name, The Pendennis Building, in 2018 and the latest renovation was completed in 2022. The building has seen some stuff! To this day, it has remnants of the wood frame where it all started.

Natural light hits just right in the Pendennis.

This truly is an event venue with character that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. You’ll want to make sure every detail is as meticulously curated as the space itself. While the Pendennis Weddings & Events team doesn’t offer every service necessary to plan your perfect party, they have a list of preferred vendors to help with everything you need, including planning, décor, DJs, photographers and everybody’s favourite — food.

Selections from one of The Party People Catering Co’s 5-course meals.

Enter to win a $10,000 catering experience through The Party People Catering Co.

Founded by Chef Kayla Dhaliwall and Cheryl Chung, this catering company knows how to feature fresh and local ingredients with innovative techniques in a way that makes each guest feel like a VIP.

The food seems to transcend catering. It’s more like dining at a fancy restaurant than anything that comes to mind when you think of catering. Chef Kayla creates luxurious, multi-course dinner menus that make you randomly text your friends just to say, “remember that bone marrow and tonka bean ice cream?” She also puts together buffets and breakfasts and family-style meals. And if opulence isn’t your thing, you can opt for crowd-pleasers like taco bars and poutine tasting stations.

Chef Kayla has built an extensive career slicing through many renowned kitchens. You might even recognize her from Top Chef Canada circa 2013. While co-founder Ceryl Chung’s name might be new to you in the Edmonoton scene, her extraordinary client service skills will guide you through effortlessly making your event sparkle.

If you are looking to enter the contest or to have an event where your guests feel like royalty, visit partypeoplecaters.ca

 

Pendennis building photos courtesy of the Pendennis Weddings & Events.