Century-old Toronto bank turned into $3M home has bar in old vault

A century ago, people lined up at 687 Queen St. E. to deposit their paycheques. Today, they'd be more likely to sip cocktails ... maybe even poured straight from the old bank vault.

Initially built in 1923 as a Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) branch, this Toronto landmark has been transformed into a stunning two-bedroom, three-bathroom live/work space that blends historic charm with modern luxury.

Behind its stately stone façade, the 3,000-square-foot interior opens into a dramatic double-height entryway that definitely makes an impression.

The front entrance. 

On the main floor, you'll find a cozy living room with a fireplace, a sleek office, and a powder room.

Dramatic double heigh entry. 

If you're planning to use the space for both work and play (it's zoned as commercial residential), the main floor offers prime street exposure ideal for a boutique, gallery, or studio, while upstairs is a private retreat that feels worlds away from the bustle of Queen Street.

The primary bedroom. 

The second-floor suite features a spacious bedroom with custom cabinetry and a walkout to a private deck. 

The primary ensuite bathroom. 

There's also a spa-worthy bathroom complete with a steam shower, twin sinks, heated floors, and a Jacuzzi tub.

The kitchen and dining area. 

But the real showstopper is the lower level, where a sleek kitchen shares space with the original bank vault.

The old bank vault that was converted into a wet bar. 

One of the old bank vaults is now a wet bar, while the other is a wine cellar.

The other old vault that was turned into a wine cellar. 

It's both epic and extremely practical — especially if you'd like to keep people out of your liquor stash.

The back patio. 

Step outside to the back patio, and the attention to detail continues: a hard-wired sound system, LED and motion lighting, a gas outlet for easy entertaining, and even a misting and irrigation setup to keep things cool in the summer.

The front of the building. 

And because this was once a bank, it's built like one. There's reinforced construction, robust windows, and secure heated parking for two cars.

A home office. 

From its days safeguarding savings to its new life as a space that celebrates style and creativity, 687 Queen St. E might just be Riverside's most unique address.

The rooftop patio. 

If you've ever dreamed of owning a literal piece of Riverside history — one with a built-in bar and a spa bathroom — this might be your moment to cash in.

A view of the neighbourhood. 

687 Queen St. E is listed for $2,995,000.