Toronto getting ambitious new brewery and event space

One of Toronto's lost architectural gems is set to be brought back to life in the form of a new brewery. Junction Craft Brewing announced today that it has secured a lease for 150 Symes Rd., a former incinerator built in 1934 under the direction of public works commissioner R.C. Harris.

It's a glorious structure that was last used as a waste transfer station and has since fallen into disuse. At 16, 000 square feet, it's an amazing site for a brewery that leaves plenty of room beyond the brewing infrastructure.

"We're very excited to be up and running there by early next year," said President Tom Paterson. "We'll be opening a facility that, in addition to a new 25hL brewhouse and increased production and distribution capabilities, will offer brewery tours, an event space, and an expanded tap room and retail bottle shop."

Bellwoods Brewery made headlines with their plans to set up operations in the former Hamilton Gears factory at Dovercourt and Dupont, and this looks every bit as impressive. The plan is to open in early 2017 after restorations efforts are complete at the building.

Photo by Patrick Cummins on Flickr.