Gooderham Building

The Gooderham Building, Toronto's Flatiron

The Toronto audio-guided tour stops you before the Gooderham Building, an emblematic silhouette of the city that gives off a very particular magnetism. Also known as the Flatiron Building, it has stood at the intersection of Front and Wellington streets since 1891.

From distillery to monument

Before its appearance in 1891, the corner was occupied by a smaller, shorter building, the Coffin Block. Built at the request of George Gooderham, founder of the Gooderham and Worts distillery, the building served as offices until 1952, before being sold by the family a few years later. A succession of owners and renovations followed, until it was designated a historic site.

What there is to see

Its iron-shaped, or flatiron, form, which hugs the sharp angle of the two streets, makes it one of the most photographed buildings in Toronto. Its narrow point, its red bricks and its old-fashioned look contrast with the glass towers of the financial district that are sometimes reflected on its rear façade. It is a must of old Toronto.

Practical information

The Gooderham Building is at the intersection of Front and Wellington streets, in downtown Toronto, near St. Lawrence Market. An office building, its interior is not open to visitors; the façade and its point can be contemplated freely from the street.

Why is it called the Flatiron Building?

Because of its iron shape, which hugs the sharp angle formed by Front and Wellington streets. It is one of its most photographed features.

Who had the building constructed?

The Gooderham Building was built in 1891 at the request of George Gooderham, founder of the Gooderham and Worts distillery. It served as offices until 1952.