Old City Hall

Located at the corner of Queen Street West and Bay Street, Old City Hall is one of Toronto’s most iconic heritage buildings. Designed by E.J. Lennox and completed in 1899 in the Romanesque Revival style, it served as the city’s seat of government until 1965. It later housed provincial courtrooms, remaining a symbol of civic and architectural significance.

The relocation of the provincial courts in April 2025 created a unique opportunity to re-imagine the building and the role it can play for the people of Toronto.

Corporate Real Estate Management and CreateTO have assembled a team to identify both short- and longer-term future uses, in consultation with Economic Development and Culture, Toronto Public Library and other relevant City Divisions and Agencies.

The vision for this vital historical asset will be informed by previous efforts to the following revitalization and management principles:

• Increase Public Access and Interest;

• Conserve the National Historic Site;

• Foster Local Economic Development; and

• Achieve Financial Sustainability.

As this work continues, the project team will be facilitating temporary, interim uses that activate the building, test fit potential long-term uses and help build a new identity for Old City Hall in the public imagination.