Toronto’s Old City Hall is set to become vacant, sparking discussions on its future use and potential renovations
Toronto: Old City Hall is a beloved landmark, but it’s about to be empty. The provincial courts are moving out, and now city officials are brainstorming what to do next.
This building, designed by E.J. Lennox and completed in 1899, was once the largest municipal building in North America. It almost faced demolition years ago, but thankfully, it survived. Now, with the courts leaving, the city has a chance to rethink its purpose.
Scott Barrett, the city’s Director of Property Management Services, sees a lot of potential. He mentioned that while there are constraints, they could also be opportunities. The city had considered turning it into a museum, but there are other ideas on the table too, like performance spaces or meeting rooms.
Barrett is cautious about making any promises. He wants to study the options and consult with the community before deciding. It’s important to get it right.
City officials have been documenting the building’s heritage features for years. They were in the middle of a study when the pandemic hit, which slowed things down. The last renovation estimate was from 2019, and it was around $225 million. But with inflation and rising costs, they need to reassess that figure.
Mayor Olivia Chow emphasized the building’s significance to Toronto’s heritage. She knows the costs will be a hurdle and is encouraging heritage groups to share their ideas.
We won’t know the next steps until a staff report comes out in mid-2026. In the meantime, the city hopes to use the space for rentals and events to help cover maintenance costs. The building has some beautiful features, like stunning ceilings and intricate carvings, and it’s also been updated with modern amenities.
Barrett believes it’s crucial to keep the building accessible to the public. He wants to spark curiosity and let people explore this incredible jewel of Toronto.