Built in 1914 during Edmonton’s pre-war building boom, the Hecla Block is a striking example of Edwardian architecture, with wire-cut red brick, cast-stone detailing, tall sash windows and the original HECLA BLOCK name set into its façade. Designed by David Hardie and John Martland, who later became Edmonton’s City Architect, the building survived decades of decline and a fire that virtually destroyed its interior. Rather than demolish it, the historic brick shell was preserved and rebuilt from within. In 2002, the Hecla reopened as just 14 loft-style condominiums, pairing its original 1914 exterior and exposed brick with open, minimal-walled interiors.