Welcome to the OH Victoria Hotel, a treasured historic landmark in the heart of Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island. Long before becoming the OH Victoria, the building was known as the Orient Hotel, a beloved village landmark whose story stretches back more than 125 years.

Built in 1900 by skilled local carpenter Charles Roger, who was responsible for several notable buildings throughout the village, the Orient Hotel quickly became woven into the fabric of Victoria-by-the-Sea. Its name reflected the fascination with Oriental-inspired décor that was popular at the turn of the twentieth century, giving the hotel a distinctive identity that generations of visitors would come to remember.

Stepping inside the Orient Hotel was like stepping back in time. The interiors were dark, rich, and full of character. Deep red carpeting stretched throughout the building, complemented by dark wood finishes, Art Deco influences, antique furnishings, and layers of history at every turn. The walls were adorned with original photographs of the hotel, historic artwork, and portraits of the first family who lived in the home before it became the beloved hotel the community knew for generations. Every room held reminders of the building's remarkable past, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else on Prince Edward Island.

Renovated Hotel

The hotel embarked on an ambitious transformation designed by Rachel Brown Design, guided by one simple philosophy: preserve what makes the building special while thoughtfully reimagining it for the future. Rather than erasing its history, the goal was to celebrate it, breathing new life into the landmark while ensuring its story continued for generations to come.

The redesign unfolded over several years. Interior renovations began in 2023, with each space carefully reimagined to honour the character of the original Orient Hotel while creating brighter, more welcoming interiors inspired by the surrounding coastline. Original artwork, antiques, historic photographs, and meaningful architectural details were thoughtfully preserved and incorporated throughout the hotel, allowing guests to experience both the building's history and its new identity. Between 2025 and 2026, the exterior underwent an extensive restoration. Structural upgrades, a new foundation, restored façades, new windows, standing seam metal roofing, covered front and rear verandas, refreshed landscaping, and inviting outdoor gathering spaces all breathed new life into the property while preserving the iconic silhouette that has defined the village for over a century.

Back of hotel

Rachel Brown decorating the lobby space

The transformation began in the lobby and lounge, where the once dark red interiors gave way to a bright coastal palette of warm whites, natural textures, soft blues, and touches of navy. At the centre of the space sits the hotel's signature blue tiled fireplace, creating a welcoming focal point while paying homage to the maritime character of Victoria-by-the-Sea. The result is a space that feels fresh and contemporary while still honouring the building's heritage.

One of the most significant interior renovations took place in the shared kitchen and dining area. Rather than removing the original farmhouse-style cabinetry, the decision was made to restore and refresh it, preserving an important piece of the hotel's history. The wall separating the kitchen from the dining room was removed to create one large open-concept gathering space where guests can cook, dine, and spend time together. Today, this bright communal hub serves as the heart of the hotel, bringing people together over morning coffee, family meals, celebrations, and quiet evenings after exploring Prince Edward Island.