J.R. Watkins Building

One of Point Douglas’ largest warehouses, it is illustrative of the type of industrial development occurring in the neighborhood during the first two decades of the 20th century. It is an excellent example of the Chicago Style school of architecture. Built of dark brick with stone accenting, this massive building is supported internally by a reinforced concrete slab system not commonly used in Winnipeg but which provided exceptional load capacity.

For 70 years, the building was associated with one of North America’s preeminent manufacturers and retailers of home cleaning and health remedies, and was its Canadian headquarters for that period. The building has been refurbished to house arts and cultural activities.