Grain Exchange Building, Winnipeg

Located in the heart of Winnipeg’s historic Exchange District, the Grain Exchange Building stands as one of the city’s oldest and most iconic landmarks. Designed by the Toronto-based architectural firm Darling and Pearson in the grand Italian Renaissance palazzo style, the building was constructed between 1906 and 1908 by Kelly Brothers and Mitchell. Its creation marked a bold step in architectural innovation for the time, not only due to its design but also its height-making it one of the tallest structures in the city during that period.

Originally built as the new headquarters for the Winnipeg Grain Exchange (established in 1887), the building played a central role in Western Canada’s agricultural and commercial development. From humble beginnings in the basement of Winnipeg City Hall and later a building on Princess Street, the Grain Exchange found its monumental home at the corner of Lombard Avenue and Rorie Street. Today, its name still proudly crowns the impressive limestone lintel above its main entrance.

The ten-story Grain Exchange Building, a Grade II Heritage site, spans an entire city block with over 250,000 square feet of office space. Its large floor plates (26,600 square feet) support efficient, unbroken layouts for businesses. A central light well and extensive glazing bring natural light deep into the building, offering bright interiors and views of downtown Winnipeg, including the Forks and riverfront.

Since 2007, the Grain Exchange Building has been gradually renovated, blending modern interiors with its historic charm. Now home to both government and private offices-including Public Works and Government Services Canada-it’s connected to the Winnipeg Square underground concourse and features a 270-stall parking structure added in 2011. It remains a key fixture in downtown Winnipeg, uniting history, business, and architecture.