The Shmilar Kwong space on Whyte

The Griffith Block, originally known as the Canadian Bank of Commerce Building, was built in 1908. This three story brick and mortar building housed a bank from its inception until the 1980’s. The old banking hall was a focal point of business on the south side and played a significant social and commercial role in the community of Strathcona. Designed by the bank’s in-house architect, a Mr. Cawston, in consultation with the Manager, G. W. Marriott, this gracious building was constructed at a cost of $30,000. The building has subsequently been used for a variety of commercial purposes. Rivendell Management Group purchased the building in 1983, renaming it the Griffith Block after the firm’s president and sole shareholder Bill Griffith.

Although in good structural condition when purchased by the Griffith family, the 5800 square foot building required significant clean-up work, painting and new wiring. Holes in walls and ceilings were repaired, missing moldings and doors were milled and replaced, and custom marbled glass panes were ordered for interior doors and offices. All the oak moldings and railings have been restored throughout, as well as the fir trim on the third floor. Traditionally styled carpet was custom-ordered and installed in the stairwell, hallways, and “banking hall”. Original lath and plaster work was restored and embellished and the original windows were put back in working order.