In 1910 Robert Simpson Co Ltd constructed on the southwest corner of this site a five-storey, reinforced concrete and steel structure, which was used for wagon storage and as a harness shop. In 1916 an 11-storey mail-order building and warehouse was added at the south end of Mutual Street, designed by Max Dunning and Burke, Horwood and White. The final construction phase of 1930 took place at the north and west sides of the city block. The design of the west facade is a fine example of multi-storey warehouse design. Over 12,000 people worked in this huge industrial building at one time.

In 1977 construction began on a new; mixed-use development (residential, retail, and commercial), after interior elements of the original building had been removed, except for concrete columns and floors. The Merchandise Building now consists of 504 loft residential units, 529 above-grade car parking spaces, 246 bicycle spaces, 4 loading bays, a 30,000-square-foot food store, and 35,300 square feet of retail and office space. The exterior masonry and concrete work has been refurbished, a new roof constructed, and double-glazed windows added to the building exterior. Two large six-storey openings have been cut into the building to bring fresh air and light into the building.

The residential lofts are accessed by shuttle elevators from grade. Parking is on the second and third floors. On the fourth floor there is a lobby and recreation area consisting of a fitness club, basketball court, steam and sauna facilities, concierge station, two guest hotel suites, and a large area for social gatherings.

The loft apartments are divided into three condominium communities, each having its own elevators, stairs, and mechanical and electrical systems. The apartments have 12-foot ceilings and large expanses of glass. Many of the apartments feature in their design the massive (48 inch diameter) interior concrete structural columns.

The three condominium communities share a rooftop “sky garden” with prairie meadow flowerbeds and a wetland garden. A new twelfth floor has been added to make space for an indoor pool, party room, dining facilities, and an outside dipping pool.

The total redesign and regeneration of this 1,070,000-square-foot complex is believed to be the largest of its kind in North America.

Paul Northgrave