ipernity: Jonathan Cohen's photos with the keyword: Carrall Street

Merchants Bank Building – Pioneer Square (Pigeon P…

25 Apr 2012

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In 1913, the Montreal-based Merchants Bank constructed a branch at 1 West Hastings Street. The building was constructed in the "temple bank" style imported from eastern North America. These "temple banks" dominated street corners and became symbols of strength, solidity and prosperity. Although only three storeys in height, the structure was built with a steel frame capable of supporting an additional four to seven floors. Because the centre of commerce continued to re-establish itself further west along Hastings Street, the additional floors were never built. Of interest is the siting of the building on the property, such that the facade was angled to accommodate the Canadian Pacific Railway spur line to False Creek. The removal of the tracks in 1931 led to the creation of nearby Pioneer Place, also known as Pioneer Square, or Pigeon Park. An area that has both influenced and reflected the character of its surroundings, it has been controversial from the start, as the site of labour unrest during the Great Depression, and now as a meeting place for the homeless, or an appointed site for drug-related activities. The value of the site also lies in the architecture; although modest in comparison with other "temple banks" being built at the time, the Merchants Bank incorporates many characteristics of the style, including carved granite cladding, Corinthian-style pilasters, a festooned frieze, an elegant cornice, and a prominent corner location. The bank’s once equally elegant interior has been renovated beyond recognition, and an unsightly addition has been attached to the rear.