Regent Hotel

Built in 1913 for Art Clemes by architect Emil G. Guenther, the Regent Hotel’s fine finishes would indicate that it catered to tourists and business travelers, who were expected to arrive after the completion of the Canadian Northern Railway and the Panama Canal.
In addition to providing accommodation, the Regent also offered services, including a barber shop, cigar store, and shoe shine stand, all catering to the largely male travelling public.

The Chicago-style grid – including the Louis Sullivan-inspired decorated spandrels – presents a symmetrical face to the street, while the pilasters emphasize the verticality of the structure.Its height was only possible with the use of steel frames, concrete and the development of the elevator, all modern technology at the time.

Regent Hotel was also the offices of the fishing industry unions before they acquired the Fisherman’s Hall at 138 East Cordova. BC Fishermen’s Union formed in 1900 to combat the price fixing arrangements of local canneries.

The Regent Hotel has been renovated by the Downtown Eastside Residents’ Association as affordable social housing.

Source

Canada's Historic Places, Working Class and Labour History Walking Tour

More information

http://evelazarus.com/vancouvers-regent-hotel/