St. Lawrence Hall, Toronto

Standing elegantly close to the Saint Lawrence Market is a building fit to put any other structure in the vicinity to shame. Such is the grandeur and immense presence of the Saint Lawrence Hall. This spectacular building took shape in the mid-19th century and was the work of the renowned Anglo-Canadian architect, William Thomas. Thomas first moved to Canada with his wife and 10 children in 1837 to escape economic hardship in his native England. Thomas's career took off no sooner than he set foot in Toronto and he is now considered to be one of the most gifted architects of his time.

The Saint Lawrence Hall is believed to be one of William Thomas’s best works. Designed in Renaissance Revival style, this colossal building has a fantastic facade that complements its width. An interesting feature is the typical Roman temple that takes center stage atop this building.

The overall breathtaking view of the edifice makes it seemingly unlikely that any single element thereof can enchant you more. Still, the interiors of Saint Lawrence manage to achieve exactly that, displaying elegance, sophistication and opulence. No wonder, the Hall has been the epitome of Toronto’s artistic society.