What to know
- The Museum of Toronto is moving from 401 Richmond St. W. to 2 Queen St. E., with its new permanent home expected to open in 2027.
- The move is supported by a $35-million donation from philanthropists Diane Blake and Stephen Smith, bringing their total contributions to the museum to $50 million.
- The new location is expected to increase the museum’s visibility and give visitors a central space to explore Toronto’s history and cultural heritage.
- The project includes a new visual identity developed by Bruce Mau Design, with local architecture firm Superkül also involved.
- The museum is partnering with the City of Toronto to explore future programming and cultural initiatives.
The Museum of Toronto is getting a new home set to open its doors in 2027, supported by a $35 million philanthropic gift.
Currently located at a historic arts and culture hub at 401 Richmond St. W., the Museum of Toronto tells the city’s history through a collection of exhibitions and experiences that foster deeper connections among its visitors. Since its opening in 2014, it focuses on building a live archive of the city open for anyone who wants to explore Toronto’s cultural heritage.
But those looking to explore the museum might now have to access a different address.
On Tuesday, the museum announced it is moving into 2 Queen St. E., which will be its permanent access, making a large milestone in its history since it was established 12 years ago.
The move is being supported by a $35 million donation from philanthropists Diane Blake and Stephen Smith. The gift will allow the organization to grow and foster more cultural discussions across the city.
This is also not the first time Blake and Smith donate to the Museum of Toronto. Since it was established and labeled as a non-for-profit organization, the philanthropists have donated a total of $50 million to the initiative.
What will change with the new location
According to the Museum of Toronto, the new location will help establish it as a permanent institution in the city, and establish a new visual identity, facilitated by Bruce Mau Design. Other partners of the project include local architecture firm Superkül and commercial real estate advisor Avison Young.
“This is a defining moment for [the] Museum of Toronto… This transformational gift allows us to take the next step, to create a permanent home where our history can be shared, experienced, and questioned,” Heidi Reitmaier, CEO of the Museum of Toronto, said in a news release.
“At a time when Toronto is changing rapidly, creating space for connection and a shared sense of belonging is more important than ever.”
According to the museum, the new location will also allow the institution to significantly expand its reach and visibility, and offer a central space in the city where residents can explore and engage with the city’s cultural history. The museum also says the move is a step towards establishing its long-term mission of becoming globally recognized and inclusive.
The museum said it’s also launching a collaboration with the City of Toronto to explore new future programming and partnerships on new projects.
“As a global cultural capital, Toronto deserves top tier institutions able to compellingly and comprehensively tell the city’s stories. With this development, Museum of Toronto will amplify our city’s stories, histories and heroes,” Pat Tobin, General Manager of the City of Toronto’s Economic Development and Culture Division, said.
