The Oakham Foundation, formerly known as the Palin Foundation, is proud to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026! As the owner and operator of Oakham House and the TMU Student Centre, we are excited to unveil a bold new era of elevated events, inspired design, and student-focused initiatives that enrich the lives of the TMU community.
Positioned as The Heart of the Garden District, Oakham House is undergoing a transformative evolution into one of Toronto’s most unique and creative event destinations.
Note: All listed rooms are available throughout this transformation and room pricing is available on this site in a pdf.
Coming Summer 2026 — The Oakham Conservatory
Tecumseh Hall (formerly Tecumseh Auditorium) and the adjacent Courtyard Lounge are being completely reimagined into The Oakham Conservatory — an ethereal greenhouse-inspired event venue and gallery experience. Featuring lush floor-to-ceiling plant life, luxurious lighting, soft mid-century modern design elements, elevated finishes, and airy botanical surroundings, the Conservatory will provide a breathtaking backdrop for weddings, galas, corporate functions, and immersive experiences.
This initiative will also introduce a new student educational program, where participants become our official “Bloombassadors,” helping cultivate and maintain the living environment while gaining hands-on hospitality and event experience.
Oakham House & The Yard
Oakham Lounge, Thomas Lounge, and the reimagined outdoor patio — now known as The Yard — are being enhanced into a cohesive wedding and special event experience package. New additions include:
- A student-created garden and forest-inspired mural
- Bistro light installations and enhanced landscaping
- A community garden developed alongside TMU students
- Refreshed décor and atmosphere throughout the property
The venue now features the newly introduced Riel Rooms A & B — a sophisticated third-floor conference space accommodating up to 70 guests, or seamlessly divided into two rooms for 30 and 40 guests with a modern bifold wall system. Complete with brand-new state-of-the-art technology, the space is designed for elevated meetings, presentations, and corporate gatherings.
Guests can enjoy enhanced in-house catering and bar services, alongside the exciting new option to host select events with renowned Toronto catering partner Elle Cuisine for an even more elevated culinary experience.
Reimagined and co-designed by Tom Rawding — former Sales Manager of The Globe and Mail Centre and a pioneer behind Berkeley Events — Oakham House enters a bold new era of accessible luxury. Blending inspired design, immersive hospitality, and cultural energy, the venue delivers premium downtown Toronto event experiences at a refreshingly attainable price point, with all proceeds supporting TMU students and future creative leaders.
Now booking:
- Summer socials and patio events for July & August
- Conferences and corporate events for Fall 2026 & Spring 2027
- Weddings and private celebrations for Fall 2026 and 2027
Experience The Heart of the Garden District — Toronto’s most unique, affordable, and creatively inspired event destination.
New website and wayfinding experience launching Spring 2026.