
Saskatoon, SK (December 16, 2025) - Saskatoon’s most iconic landmark is entering a bold new chapter following a comprehensive renovation and rebranding. The historic Bessborough Hotel will join Marriott Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection, which includes over 340 independent hotels across the globe – each hand selected for their inherent craft and distinct perspective on design. The hotel will remain open until May 2026, with efforts made to minimize disruption to guests and the community as renovations begin on the north wing in mid-January. A hotel service pause is scheduled for mid- May to September 2026, with a grand reopening slated for the fourth quarter of 2026. The project promises to “Enchant the Moment” for every guest, elevating experiences from the everyday to the unforgettable.
Built in 1935 and affectionately known as “The Bess” this Castle on the River has long been a symbol of elegance, heritage, and hospitality. The renovation will preserve its timeless architecture while introducing a fresh brand identity rooted in refined tradition, vibrant energy, and worldly warmth.
With no two Autograph Collection hotels the same, each individual property offers an ‘Autograph Moment,’ a signature experience crafted through passion and expert skill, leaving a lasting imprint on guests. The Moment at The Bessborough will come in the form of the Cabinet of Curiosities – a curated, ever-changing display of objects, stories, and artifacts that reflect the hotel’s storied past and the eclectic spirit of travel. This installation invites guests to explore the unexpected, sparking conversation and discovery as part of the guests’ hotel experience. It’s a tribute to The Bess’ legacy as a cultural crossroads and a celebration of the curious minds who pass through its doors.
“Since opening in 1935, The Bessborough has been the crown jewel of Saskatoon,” said Jiri Rumlena President of SilverBirch Hotels. “We’re proud to collaborate on this transformational renovation to revitalize an iconic hotel and to reestablish a gathering place for locals and our guests.”
“This renovation is about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating moments that resonate,” said Renjith Vengalil, General Manager. “By joining Marriott’s Autograph Collection, we’re honouring the Bessborough’s legacy while embracing a future defined by authenticity, charm, and elevated hospitality.”