Living Legacy of Toronto Heritage
Completed in 1857, the Tin & Copper Smith Building was designed by renowned architect Joseph Sheard, who later became Mayor of Toronto. Located in what is now the financial core, the building was originally commissioned as a metalsmith workshop by Hiram Piper, a master craftsman in tin and copper. Its early industrial use reflects the city’s architectural and commercial growth in the 19th century. Today, this heritage building in downtown Toronto stands as one of the city’s few surviving mid-century commercial structures — a vital part of Convivium’s unique story.
From Workshop to Newspaper Legacy
As Toronto evolved, so too did the building’s purpose. With additions in 1895, 1910, and 1914, the Tin & Copper Smith Building adapted to house a range of creative and commercial tenants. Most notably, in 1893, it became home to the Evening Star newspaper – the origin of what is now the Toronto Star. Over its 165-year history, the building has served as a home to artisans, journalists, creators, and small businesses, making it a landmark of media and commercial heritage in Toronto.
Continuing the Story Through Culinary Culture
The Tin & Copper Smith Building is more than its architecture – it embodies Toronto’s cultural and economic transformation. In the 20th century, it became home to dining establishments such as Muirheads Cafeterias, continuing its tradition of gathering and hospitality. Today, Convivium honors this legacy by transforming the historic space into a fine dining restaurant and cultural venue. Merging historic architecture with modern culinary artistry, we carry forward a story of community, creativity, and enduring purpose.
