Former Hudson's Bay building on Stephen Avenue showing signs of wear

The iconic Hudson's Bay building on Stephen Avenue is showing visible damage after sitting vacant for more than a year, with cracked tiles along its arcade, chips in granite arches, and at least one ground-floor window smashed.

The 200 Eighth Ave. building, constructed in 1913 and later expanded, became a prototype for HBC buildings in Vancouver and Winnipeg. All Hudson's Bay stores closed nationwide by June 1, 2025.

In late May, an Ontario judge approved the sale to Calgary-based developer Astra Group. The initial court filing noted that costs of maintaining, insuring, and safeguarding the property while vacant have been substantial, though no total was disclosed.

Erika Topola, executive director of Heritage Calgary, said it's not unusual for commercial buildings to show neglect when empty. "When nobody's in the building and the eyes aren't on the street, some of these heritage properties can go a little sideways until new owners pick it up," she said. Chris Wiebe with National Trust for Canada said the damage appears light from what he's observed and that heritage buildings are often more robust than expected. Keeping the building watertight is key to preventing internal damage, he noted.

The building is not designated a municipal historic resource, which would have prevented demolition or required city approval for major alterations. Astra Group has not yet disclosed plans for the building, though its website says it transforms "underutilized properties into high-performing residential and commercial spaces." For many Calgarians, the building holds emotional weight—a community hub where generations captured wedding photos and family memories.