Imperial Bank of Commerce

This building with Beaux-Arts architecture was constructed in 1927 to house the Imperial Bank of Canada. Its architectural elements are numerous and easily identifiable. Through the integration of these elements, the building exudes a sense of opulence and stability.

Note, among other things, its low cornice, which includes a pediment above the door in the corner wall. A pediment is a triangular ornament that surmounts and crowns the main entrance of a building or the upper part of a facade.

Look up and observe the sculpted tympanum adorned with the bank's seal. On either side of it, see the lozenges set above the low cornice and the pilasters of the bays between the windows.

Historical Significance

Its significance lies in its excellent example of the Beaux-Arts architectural style. Its design is similar to that of several other bank buildings from its era, and its construction dates back to the early days of the city of Noranda. Located on a street corner, the building is highly visible throughout the neighborhood.

Photo credit: Devamco, 2008

Take a closer look at the sculpted seal that crowns sits atop the low cornice, flanked on its left and right by interlocking sculpted diamonds.

Photo credit: Devamco, 2008.

Pulled straight from the vault, this photograph shows the bank between 1927 and 1930. Note that the building on Murdoch Street, which now stands next to it, was not there at the time, and also how the bank stands out in the mining landscape.

Source: Vavasour and Dick Collection