John M. Lyle was one of the most influential Canadian architects of the first half of the 20th century. Born in Ireland in 1872, Lyle studied at the prestigious École des Beaux Arts in Paris after having immigrated to Hamilton with his family. Following graduation, Lyle worked in several important New York offices before moving to Toronto in 1904 and quickly establishing himself as one of the most prominent architects, educators and activists in the city.
