Hamilton, Ontario – Aberdeen Tavern

Before it was serving dinner and cocktails, Aberdeen Tavern was serving a very different kind of customer.

The distinctive Hamilton building dates back to 1930, when it was constructed as a bank. There are even local tales claiming it was once one of the most frequently robbed banks in Ontario, apparently thanks to the surrounding streets offering a convenient getaway.

True? Maybe. But every good old building deserves a little folklore.

Today, the former bank has found a very different second life as Aberdeen Tavern, a popular neighbourhood restaurant that has become a destination in its own right.

About the Artwork

For this vintage-inspired illustration, I wanted to celebrate the architecture that gives Aberdeen Tavern so much of its character.

Banks of this era were designed to project strength, stability and permanence. The building itself needed to convince customers that whatever they put inside would still be there tomorrow.

That philosophy can be seen throughout the architecture.

Intricate brickwork, substantial windows, strong proportions and distinctive architectural details give the building a solidity that still commands attention on the street nearly a century later.

I love that something originally built for such a serious purpose has evolved into a warm, social place where people now gather for dinner, drinks and conversation.

Built to protect money. Repurposed to steal hearts.

Okay, maybe that's a little dramatic, but the building has certainly proven the original architects right about one thing: it was built to last.

This illustration is my tribute to a beautiful piece of Hamilton architecture, its colourful history and the new life that continues inside its old walls.

Art Print Details

Prints are sold unframed.

11" × 14" Art Print

Printed on 100 lb matte cover stock with a 0.5" white border, ready for framing.

16" × 20" Art Print

Printed on smooth 8 pt C2S stock with a matte finish.

Choose between:

• 2" white border for a more traditional, gallery-style framed presentation
• 0.5" white border for a larger artwork area

Limited Edition Fine Art Print

Available in 16" × 20"

For collectors, a limited edition of just 15 signed and individually numbered prints is available.

Each limited edition is printed on premium 300–320 gsm fine art paper, made from acid-free, 100% cotton rag with a beautiful matte finish.

Limited editions include a 2" white border and are personally signed and numbered.

Only 15 available in this limited-edition run. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.

Canadian Shipping

Prints that are not currently in stock are produced to order. Please allow approximately 10–15 days for printing and delivery within Canada.