Picture this. You’re standing before Metro Hall a 27-storey giant in Toronto’s downtown core. This imposing structure wasn’t always a municipal hub. It began its life in 1992. The Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto Metro needed a home. Before that Metro’s employees were scattered. They worked in over a dozen buildings. Think of the logistical nightmare.
Metro Hall solved that problem. It brought everyone under one roof. This impressive building however wasn’t built without controversy. Its $211 million price tag raised eyebrows. Some felt the money could be better spent elsewhere. Then-North York mayor Mel Lastman famously criticized the downtown location. He argued a suburban site would be cheaper and fairer. But proponents countered that the long-term savings on rent alone. These would offset the initial cost. By 1987 rent was estimated at $7 million per year. The decision was made. Metro Hall was constructed.
Metro Hall is part of a three-tower complex. It overlooks Pecaut Square. Originally called Metro Square the space was renamed in 2011. It honors the late civic leader David Pecaut. The building itself is a marvel of Postmodern architecture. Its design is truly striking. The lower level offers amenities like a community centre and library. It’s more than just offices. It’s a community space.
After municipal consolidation in 1998. Metro Hall’s role shifted. Toronto City Hall became the new headquarters. Metro Hall wasn’t empty. It served as a temporary home for city staff. The empty council chamber even served as a temporary homeless shelter in 1999. This was thanks to then-city councillor Jack Layton. In 2007 it became a 3-1-1 call centre.
There were discussions about selling Metro Hall. But its value didn’t match its cost. The highest bid in 2001 was $125 million. Far below its original cost. Today Metro Hall remains a significant part of Toronto’s landscape. It’s a working building for city employees. It’s a film location too. It stood in for the UN building in the Left Behind movies. It’s also been featured in various television shows. Even a scene from Saw 3D was filmed in Pecaut Square.
Interestingly Metro Hall Council Chambers received heritage protection. This was in July 2006 under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. The designation highlights the building’s architectural significance. Its architects Brisbin Brook Beynon Architects. The exterior and interiors excluding the council chambers are not included. So next time you visit Toronto don’t just walk past Metro Hall. Take a moment. Marvel at its story a tale of urban development cost and heritage.