First 'Fireproof Bank' Still Stands as Downtown Landmark
The Canada Permanent Mortgage Building, constructed in 1909, is an Edwardian Baroque gem designed by a pioneering Edmonton architect who died in WWI.
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If you've spent time in downtown Edmonton, a building near the Fairmont Hotel MacDonald may have caught your eye—the Canada Permanent Mortgage Building, a rare example of Edwardian Baroque architecture in the city.
Constructed in 1909, the building was created by the Canada Permanent Mortgage Company, established in Toronto in 1855 and expanded to Alberta in 1901. The company filled an important role providing mortgages for farms, residences, and small businesses during a period of rapid growth. The Edmonton branch became headquarters for Canada Permanent's Alberta operations.
The building's Edwardian Baroque style—usually reserved for significant public buildings—testified to Canada Permanent's optimistic outlook on Edmonton's and Alberta's future. Character-defining elements include a reinforced concrete structure, sandstone and red brick exterior, and a flat roof. The east facade features three distinct bays separated by pilasters with Ionic capitals, a stone balustrade with a central date stone of 1910, and a garland around urns at the roof level.
Decorative brick and stone detailing—including a winged lighthouse above the entrance doorway—add to its visual richness. The interior houses a poured concrete staircase with a wrought iron railing and wood handrail. The building was advertised as Edmonton's first "fireproof bank," a distinction earned through its innovative building technique.
The heritage value of the Canada Permanent Building lies in its associations with architect Roland W. Lines. Living in Edmonton for only a decade before losing his life in the First World War, Lines designed several notable buildings still standing today, including the Union Bank Building (1910), Alex Taylor School (1906), and Strathcona Collegiate Institute (1909). He was known for his use of many styles and strong classical themes. He designed the Canada Permanent Building to portray strength and stability.
The building was designated a municipal historic resource by the City of Edmonton in May 2022 and a provincial historic resource in January 1995.