2.3K 
The Downtown Eastside became the centre of political and cultural life in the early 20th century as commercial activity extended beyond Gastown. The proliferation of businesses led to the construction of several hotels and lodgings meant to accommodate the burgeoning blue-collar population. Built in 1911, the Roosevelt Hotel arose out of the enigmatic neighbourhood's fruitful beginnings.
The Roosevelt Hotel is also known as the Molson Bank Building for its long-standing anchor tenant. Founded in the mid-19th century, the bank had 125 branches across the country by 1925, the year it was absorbed by the Bank of Montreal. The building evokes a similar styling as other early 20th century banks across Canada. Advances in building construction and technology meant that the Edwardian commercial style building could rise to a higher zenith. The six-storey, reinforced concrete building did just that. Its facade was fashioned in terra cotta, a reflection of predominant trends south of the border.
Like all financial institutions at the time, the Bank of Montreal used architecture to convey strength and stability to its clients. The ornate exterior was coupled with a marble-laden interior that projected high status and permanence. The majesty of the building spoke to the fortune of its tenant and the city as a whole.
New York-based H.L. Stevens, an experienced architect who had performed commissions for multiple buildings in the United States, was appointed to the Vancouver project. Historically, the upper levels were used as offices for doctors, lawyers and other professionals. The building underwent a renovation in 2015 as part of BC Housing's SRO Renewal Initiative. It now offers 42 units of non-profit housing for Downtown Eastside residents.
Do you have building trivia to share? Join the conversation in the Architrivia Tipline thread in our Forum.
