Toronto’s Gooderham Building, better known as the Flatiron, stands on a triangular plot at Church and Front Streets in the St. Lawrence Market District. Completed in 1892, the five-storey red-brick building pairs Gothic Revival details with a green copper roof and sandstone foundation. Look at both sides, including the Trompe l’Oeil mural on the rear wall, and step back for a view of its wedge-shaped profile among downtown’s newer towers. A dog fountain is also on site.
A triangular site in Old Toronto
The building occupies a narrow, triangular plot where Front, Wellington and Church Streets meet. The site’s unusual shape came from the historic shoreline of Lake Ontario: Front Street once followed the water’s edge, and the meeting of the streets left a pointed parcel of land.
George Gooderham commissioned the office building for the Gooderham and Worts distillery. Architect David Roberts Jr. designed it, and construction was completed in 1892. The five-storey structure was built from red brick and Credit Valley stone in the Gothic Revival style, with Romanesque and French Gothic elements also noted in its design.
The building is named the Gooderham Building after its original owner. Its familiar nickname, the Flatiron, comes from its wedge-like outline. The office once used by Gooderham was in the upper corner tower, which gave a view over the surrounding neighbourhood.
What to look for around the building
The green copper roof and curved corner tower stand out against the building’s red brick. Walk around the structure to see how its shape changes with the angle. The rear wall is home to the Trompe l’Oeil mural, a large painted work that gives the back of the building a different character from its formal street-facing sides.
A heritage plaque describing the building’s history is set on the traffic median in front, rather than attached to the structure. The building was renovated in 1976 and designated under the Ontario Heritage Act in 1977. Its exterior is a popular photography subject, so changing your position can help you capture the triangular form and the mural in separate views.
The dog fountain is another point of interest on site. The surrounding area also has pubs at basement and street level, as well as a park behind the building. Paid parking is available on nearby streets; check both Wellington Street East and Front Street East if arriving by car.
FAQ
When was Toronto’s Flatiron Building built?
The Gooderham Building was completed in 1892. Construction began in 1891.
Where is the Flatiron Building in Toronto?
It is at 49 Wellington Street East, at the meeting of Church and Front Streets in the St. Lawrence Market District.
What is the mural behind the Flatiron Building?
The rear wall has the Trompe l’Oeil mural. Walk around the building to see it.
Is there a fee to see the Flatiron Building?
The exterior can be viewed for free. Nearby street parking is paid.
