Toronto Board of Trade Building

The Toronto Board of Trade Building is a seven-story skyscraper located at Front Street East and Yonge Street featuring Gothic and Romanesque architectural elements. The distinctive structure showcases a rounded front corner, terracotta roofing, and an elaborate facade with carved stone details.

Construction began in 1892 but was interrupted by a partial collapse during building, leading to a change in architects for the project. The structure initially served the Toronto Board of Trade before becoming home to the Toronto Transit Commission in the 1920s.

The building reflects the shift toward American architectural styles in Canadian commercial structures and embodies the growing ambitions of Toronto's business elite. Its ornate stone detailing and distinctive rounded corner shape continue to define the character of this downtown intersection.

The building occupies a central location where two major streets intersect, making it easy to find and access. The surrounding area provides plenty to explore with other historic buildings and the waterfront district within walking distance.

The original design was completely reworked after a construction mishap, with an architect from Buffalo taking over the project. The final budget far exceeded initial estimates, allowing for luxury finishes such as marble floors and elaborate stone pillars framing the wooden entrance doors.