More Information

The Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) vacated this branch in 1997, following a trend in decentralization of banking and accompanying suburban expansion in post-war Canada. Due to the explosion of smaller branches in different parts of the city, clients no longer needed to travel downtown to the massive banking halls of previous generations, where the architecture spoke of power, stability and wealth. Banks responded to this trend by constructing smaller, more accessible branches in various parts of the city. Canadian bank head offices generally had their own chief architect who controlled the planning and construction of their properties. The design for branch buildings went to local architects but the bank’s chief architect was involved in the choice of location and design. Green Blankstein and Russell designed the Broadway branch in 1956.

Design Characteristics

• The building is 52' x 38'
• Constructed with steel and masonry
• The building is rather diminutive in size, with large windowed portions on the public elevations to the north and east
• The inclusion of large windows in the design denotes a modern tendency of bank branches towards a greater use of glass areas, in order to provide light in the interior and allow for greater visibility from the street
• While remaining inviting at the street level, the design pays homage to its large commercial neighbours, with the use of high quality materials - limestone facing and red granite trim
• The building ceased housing a bank in 1997 and has since accommodated retail activities

Sources

• "Branch Bank Interiors." H.F.G. Moody. Journal (Royal Architectural Association of Canada). October 1950 127 10.
• "The Why and Wherefore of Modern Bank Design."Townsend, L.W. Journal (Royal Architectural Institute of Canada) October 1950: 334-55.
• "The Peter Leitch Story." Western Construction and Building (May 1962): 23-26.