Flavelle House

Flavelle House (Holwood), built 1902

Few people take the time to appreciate the large house that sits with gracious dignity set back from Queeen’s Park Crescent, as they drive downtown every day.

The Living Room at Flavelle House

The University of Toroto Law school students who use Flavelle House every day have a better opportunity to take part in its beauty enjoying the interior and exterior aspects of its architecture and decoration.

The Georgian Great Hall Fireplace

Flavelle House is one of the University of Toronto Law School buildings.  It was originally built in 1902 by Sir Joseph Flavelle (1858-1939), a Canadian businessman and philanthropist, on land leased for 99 years from the University.  The arrangement was that the premises were to be used by Sir Joseph, Lady Flavelle and their dependents, but given back to the University at the end of the 99-year term.

Gustav Hahn Ceiling

Sir Joseph built the house, originally called Holwood, using the plans of the Toronto architects Pearson and Darling.  It is said he avoided anything pretentious and may have been unaware of the grand scale of the architectural drawings.  Holwood emerged as a splendid edifice in the Second Classical Revival style, somewhat grander than Sir Joseph had apparently anticipated.  The house was donated to the University in 1940, because none of Sir Joseph’s descendents chose to live there after his death.

Gustav Hahn Ceiling

The interior of Flavelle House is designed with superb architectural features including mosaic floors and beautiful woodwork.  The elegant Georgian Great Hall features the historically important Art Nouveau ceiling painted by Gustav Hahn (1866-1962).  The ceiling is beautifully decorated with four floating angels.  It is fitting for our future lawyers at the University of Toronto Law School to have the pleasure of being surrounded by beauty as they take some inspiration from the angels while reading the law.

Gustav Hahn Ceiling