Whether it’s old-world relics, design masterpieces, or testaments to industry of years past – the best architecture in Toronto can often be hidden in plain sight. If you’ve been looking to start some of your own urban exploring, you need a little bit more local expertise on your side.
Here are just some of our favourite – and out of the limelight – architectural gems you can find throughout Toronto’s neighbourhoods…
Summerhill
North Toronto Railway Station | 10 Scrivener Square
It’s hard to miss when you’re in the area, but the North Toronto Railway Station is an underrated find for anyone outside of Summerhill. What we now know as the Summerhill LCBO used to be the North Toronto Railway Station (predating Union Station, which ultimately forced the closure of this building). Here you’ll find the Great Hall, with 44-foot ceilings, original light fixtures, and even former ticket wickets (now hidden behind cases of wine). Historically significant, stunning, and still in business – although, nowadays, they sell spirits instead of sojourns.
Junction Triangle
Various Warehouses | Sterling Road
The Junction Triangle offers a showcase of Toronto’s illustrious industrial past. In the same spirit of areas like Liberty Village or the Distillery District, the warehouses of the Junction Triangle are enjoying their own renaissance. These landmarks are now being converted into coffee shops (like Hale Coffee Roasters), craft breweries (Henderson Brewing Co.), and even gourmet locales (like the Drake Commissary). Just as neat to see as it is to visit, this up-and-coming area is a nod to Toronto’s prosperous past and bright future.
Riverdale
Toronto Necropolis | 200 Winchester Street
In 1850, the Toronto Necropolis became one of the city’s largest burial grounds – interring some of the area’s original settlers. It’s even been referred to as “the resting place of the pioneers.” The beautiful parish and archway are simply awe-inspiring sites, and sit just across the Don River from the bustling neighbourhood of Riverdale. While it might seem spookier closer to sundown, this peaceful and contemplative landmark is an artifact all its own, and a reminder of the city’s younger days.
Roncesvalles
Sunnyside Pavilion | 1755 Lake Shore Blvd W
The Sunnyside Pavilion isn’t just a West End dweller’s favourite summertime hangout, it’s also some of the best architecture in Toronto that you might not have noticed. Built in 1922, the Sunnyside Beach Pavilion sits right on the shores of Lake Ontario, along the lengthy Sunnyside Boardwalk. The pavilion’s ornate design and grand entryway is a fascinating landmark, with elegance from the archways, the engravings, and all the way down to the pillars. Even though it’s a place for play, it can also serve as a great source of inspiration, too.
Some of the best architecture in Toronto might be right in your own backyard. Want to learn more about the neighbourhoods, the homes, and being able to call them home yourself? Contact us today, and we can start a conversation about turning a place to visit into a place to live.
Meet The Erica Reddy Team
Find out how our specialized skill sets and extensive Toronto market expertise empower your real estate venture.
