The Watch LAST CALL LOOMS FOR OLD STRATHCONA HOTEL—AT LEAST AS WE KNOW IT Edmonton’s Old Strathcona Hotel opened in 1891 to host new arrivals straight off the train from Calgary. Since then, a wide cross-section of humanity has slept at the hotel and imbibed at its tavern, a popular watering hole on Whyte Avenue. Over time, the beloved Edmonton landmark has devel- oped a reputation for affordable beer and a sketchy vibe— but this is about to change. Developer Ivan Beljan, P.Eng., already a big presence on Whyte Avenue, is purchasing the building, which has protected heritage status from the city and province. Is he giving it a “hipster makeover?” That’s what the headline on an Edmonton Journal opinion piece declares. Whatever label you give his vision, Mr. Beljan is look- ing at transforming 48 rooms into 34 apartments or bou- tique hotel rooms. The main floor of the building will host retailers and restaurants. And, if the city and province agree, a solarium will be built at the back.
LATITUDE
MODERN ART FINDS A HOME IN CALGARY’S OLD PLANETARIUM
Back in 1967, Calgary’s Centennial Planetarium was constructed to mark Canada’s centennial. Built of raw concrete and featuring a dome-like design, the award-winning building housed the Calgary Science Centre for 27 years. But several years ago, the science centre relocated from the old location, west of downtown, and became TELUS Spark, near the Calgary Zoo. Now the iconic building, which sits on a 3.1- acre property, will become home to the city’s first modern art gallery, once $24.5 million in upgrades from the city are finished. In 2019, the space will be taken over by Contemporary Calgary, which has signed a 25-year lease with the city, including the possibility of a 10-year extension.
AS IT STANDS A landmark in Old Strathcona continues to occupy a busy and colourful intersection in Edmonton.
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