ELORA, ON — A beloved piece of Elora’s architectural history is stepping into a new chapter. The iconic Dalby House, a landmark flat iron building that has stood since 1865, has been sold — and it’s heading back to its roots as a hotel.
The new owners, Teal and Eric Parkinson, are no strangers to heritage hospitality. They currently operate the Ayrshire House, a cozy inn tucked into a 19th-century red-brick home just down the road. Now, with the acquisition of the Dalby building, they’re bringing their signature vintage-meets-modern touch to one of Elora’s most recognizable corners.
“We’re so excited. Oh my word,” said Teal, beaming about the plans. “It’s a dream we didn’t think we’d get to live this soon.”
A Chance Conversation Turned Into a Dream Deal
The Dalby building was previously owned by Kat Florence, a brand known for restoring historic properties in Elora. Its founders, Don Kogen and Kristy Hillis, live nearby the Parkinsons. What began as a casual neighbourly conversation turned into a full-fledged business venture.
“Recognizing Elora needed more affordable hotel rooms, we agreed to sell the building and support their vision,” Kogen said in a statement to EloraFergusToday.
A Return to the Dalby’s Hotel Roots
Teal, a former historical archaeology professor, and Eric, a fire captain, had originally imagined hospitality as a retirement project. That changed when Eric’s parents handed over the keys to the Ayrshire House — and now, they’re doubling down.
“If I could’ve picked any building in Elora, it would’ve been the Dalby,” Teal admitted. “It’s iconic. Unique. It just speaks to you.”
The Dalby building, also known as the Gordon Block or once the Iroquois Hotel, has served many purposes over the decades. Its sharp-pointed facade is a fixture on Elora’s heritage registry, originally commissioned by businessman Robert Dalby and local harness maker Andrew Gordon.
Previous owners had turned the second and third floors into apartments, which have since been vacated. Now, those eight spaces are being transformed into charming hotel rooms — with an additional two rooms planned for the ground floor.
Historic Meets Modern Comfort
The new Ayrshire Hotel will blend vintage character with modern comfort, echoing the aesthetic of the Parkinsons’ original inn. The couple is aiming for a May long weekend opening.
The Lobby Bar and Terre Bleu retail shop — both housed in the ground floor — will stay. In fact, the hotel will integrate them even further, with plans to offer Terre Bleu products in-room and possibly room service via the Lobby Bar.
“It’s such a good fit,” said Teal. “For the guest experience, it’s all going to feel very cohesive.”
A Hotel with a Mission: Community First
This isn’t just about creating a beautiful space — it’s about building up the community.
“There’s real need here,” Teal explained, noting that the Ayrshire House runs at roughly 80% occupancy in summer, with surprisingly high demand even in the off-season. More accommodations mean more visitors staying longer — and spending money in local shops and restaurants.
“Our goal is to encourage people to stay overnight and explore Elora,” said Teal. “That’s when the town truly benefits.”
As for her academic past? “No plans to go back,” she laughed. “This is a lifelong dream. And we’re just getting started.
