“Shopping Centre Opens, Most Modern in Canada.” That’s how the Montreal Star described Place Alexis Nihon back in 1968. Today we’re standing before this Montreal landmark. It’s more than just a building. It’s a testament to Montreal’s history and innovation.
Place Alexis Nihon is a large building complex. It features a shopping center, office towers, and a residential building. The complex is named after Alexis Nihon. He was an inventor and businessman.
The original complex was designed by Montreal architect Harold Ship. Construction began in 1965. Place Alexis Nihon first opened in 1967. It quickly became a significant part of Montreal’s urban landscape.
One interesting fact: Place Alexis Nihon was one of the first shopping centers in North America to have three levels. This was a novelty back then. It showcased Montreal’s forward-thinking approach to urban development.
The shopping mall connects directly to the Atwater metro station. This makes it easily accessible for shoppers and commuters. A short tunnel links it to Dawson College. A longer tunnel connects it to Westmount Square.
Place Alexis Nihon has seen its share of dramatic events. In 1986, a major fire heavily damaged a 16-story office building. It remains one of the city’s biggest skyscraper fires. The fire destroyed at least six stories. The federal government sued the owners for negligence. In 2002, the city’s fire department was blamed for incompetence in handling the fire.
In 2017, a minor fire broke out near the food court roof. Damage was minimal.
The shopping mall is anchored by several well-known stores. These include Canadian Tire, IGA, Sports Experts, Winners, and Pharmaprix. These stores provide a variety of shopping options.
Before Place Alexis Nihon was built, the site was home to Atwater Park. This was where the Montreal Royals baseball team played until 1927. The area has a rich history of sports and recreation.
Getting to Place Alexis Nihon is easy. You can take the metro to Atwater station. Several bus lines also stop nearby. If you prefer to drive, take the A-720 expressway to the Atwater Avenue exit. There are also bicycle stations and a taxi waiting area close by.
Place Alexis Nihon has housed various stores over the years. From 1982 to 1986, it was home to Montreal’s only downtown IKEA store. Other past tenants include Miracle Mart, Zellers, and Steinberg’s supermarket. When the complex opened, the French department store Au Printemps opened its first location outside France here.
Today Place Alexis Nihon continues to evolve. Renovations have made it more accessible and visually appealing. The owners commissioned LemayMichaud to transform the shopping center. They wanted to open it up and make it more visible from the street.
The renovations included new facades and illuminated panels. A panoramic elevator was added. Light-colored materials were used to accentuate natural light. These changes create a welcoming and modern environment.
Place Alexis Nihon is more than just a shopping center. It’s a vital part of Montreal’s urban fabric. It connects people, commerce, and history in one dynamic space. As you explore this complex, remember its past. Consider its present and its future in Montreal’s ongoing story.