“The Birks Building (formerly the Rosenthal Building) was built in 1910-11 by C.E. Deakin, a Montreal contractor, to the designs of Weekes and Keefer, Ottawa architects. It is a Recognized Federal Heritage Building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental values.

“This building is one of 19 buildings located on the north side of Sparks Street between Elgin and Bank streets, an area which has been, since the 1880s at least, the core of Ottawa’s central business district. The Birks Building was constructed for A. Rosenthal and sons who operated a prestige jewelry store on Sparks Street from the 1890s. In 1910 the firm commissioned the construction of an elaborate new store and office building. Shortly after its completion, the building was sold to Henry Birks and sons of Montreal.

“Henry Birks was born in England and entered the jewelry trade by joining the Montreal firm of George Savage and Company. Birks opened his own shop in 1879. In 1911, Birks began a continent-wide expansion, starting with the opening of a store in Ottawa. In 1982 the company moved to quarters in the newly opened Rideau Centre and the retail space has been subdivided without the loss of any of the original architectural detailing.”

Information derived from the Canadian Register of Historic Places.

Credits and Sources:

Information derived from the Canadian Register of Historic Place