Not only is the building on a corner lot, its Ionic pilasters, brick construction with stone trim, and scroll cut brackets supporting a small portico over the main entrance all betray its intended use as a bank. Built in 1914, the building wa designed by Montreal architect Kenneth Rea.
The Royal Bank remained in the building for many years, after which it was converted to professional offices. When we do not know, but at some time the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) took a shine to the the old bank and has moved their Lacombe branch into the building, making it, once again, a bank building.
ROYAL BANK OF CANADA
Built between 1913 and 1914, following the devastating fire of 1911 and the start of the First World War, the Royal Bank of Canada was established at the prominent corner of Lacombe’s two main commercial streets, 50th Street and 50th Avenue. The Royal Bank remained in the building for many years and it has since been the location of several doctor’s offices as well as the Alberta government’s office for Hail and Crop Insurance.
The Royal Bank building is one of Lacombe’s most recognizable and impressive structures. It was designed by prominent Montreal architect Kenneth Rea (1878-1941), who was responsible for the design of many banks, commercial buildings, and residences throughout Canada. The structure features many of its original architectural elements including its stone and brick construction, its stone lintels and sills, its ionic pilasters that extend the full two-storeys of the building on either side of the front entrance, and stone sheltered front entranceway supported by scroll-cut brackets.
From the Lacombe Municipal Heritage Survey