Simmons Building

In the heart of Calgary's East Village stands a building that has become a true symbol of architectural revival. The Simmons Building is a historic two-story factory built in 1912 from red brick. Once a mattress factory, today it is a gastronomic epicenter where the industrial past meets modern urban comfort.

This place is unique for its preserved aesthetic of pre-war industrial architecture. Inside, you'll see massive spruce posts, heavy wooden beams, and original brick walls that hold over a century of history. The building is situated on the picturesque banks of the Bow River, making it not only a historical landmark but also one of the most photogenic spots in Canada.

After a careful restoration, the Simmons Building was transformed into a cozy hub, bringing together some of the best local producers under one roof. Today, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee and homemade bread fills the air, attracting both tourists and locals looking to experience the true spirit of modern Calgary.

To clarify information about events or space rentals, you can use the official contacts of the management organization or contact the establishments located in the building directly.

A visit to the Simmons Building is, above all, a feast for the senses. Start your morning at Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters, where you can not only order an excellent espresso but also watch the coffee roasting process through panoramic windows. Nearby, at Sidewalk Citizen Bakery, you’ll be greeted by the scents of sourdough bread and craft pastries, produced right before your eyes.

For a more substantial introduction to the local cuisine, head to Charbar. It’s worth ordering dishes cooked over an open fire, and during the warmer months, be sure to head up to the rooftop patio. It’s one of the best spots in the city to enjoy a drink with views of the Bow River and Calgary's glittering skyscrapers.

Don’t forget to take a moment for the interior details: look for the old bank vault and the massive timber supports. After your culinary discoveries, it’s pleasant to take a walk along the RiverWalk, snap some striking photos against the historic facade with its famous signage, or simply sit by the water and observe the rhythm of East Village life.

The Simmons Building occupies a prime location at 618 Confluence Way SE, right on the scenic Bow River waterfront in the East Village. Reaching it from the city center is easy: a walk from the central blocks or the Calgary Tower takes about 15–20 minutes along the well-maintained RiverWalk paths.

If you prefer public transport, take the CTrain light rail (Blue or Red lines). You should get off at the East Village/City Hall station, which is no more than a 10-minute walk from the destination. Bus routes #1, 3, 10, and 302 also stop in this area.

For those traveling by car or taxi, the main route is via Confluence Way SE. Keep in mind that parking in East Village can be limited, so many visitors prefer to use Uber or arrive by bicycle—there are convenient bike racks located near the building.

The history of this site began in 1912, when the Carter-Hall-Aldinger Co. Ltd. erected what was then a state-of-the-art industrial warehouse for the Alaska Bedding Co., which later became part of the famous Simmons Canada corporation. The construction cost was an impressive $20,000. The building was designed to be ultra-reliable: massive 12-inch spruce posts and heavy beams allowed for stacks of mattresses, pillows, and furniture, including the legendary Beauty Rest beds.

In the 1940s, the Simmons Building played its part in the era's efforts by pivoting entirely to the production of bedding for military needs. Industrial activity bustled here until 1966, when a major flood inundated the basement and forced the company to relocate production. After that, the building stood empty for many years, gradually becoming a monument to the industrial age.

The site's new life began in 2012 thanks to an initiative by the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation. Approximately $6 million was spent on a large-scale restoration. Architects achieved the nearly impossible: they preserved the authentic brickwork, old freight elevators, and even the massive metal doors, transforming the abandoned warehouse into a trendy public space. The official reopening of the renovated building took place on June 20, 2015, becoming a symbol of the rebirth of the entire East Village district.

To enjoy the atmosphere of the Simmons Building without rushing, we recommend setting aside 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time to have a cup of coffee at Phil & Sebastian, try fresh pastries, and enjoy a full lunch at Charbar while taking in the views from the terrace.

If your goal is just a brief look at the architecture and a quick breakfast, you can manage in 45–60 minutes. However, most guests prefer to stay longer, combining their visit with a stroll along the adjacent RiverWalk, which can take up to half a day in total.

There is no single schedule for the entire Simmons Building, as each resident operates on their own hours. Generally, the Phil & Sebastian coffee shop and Sidewalk Citizen bakery open early in the morning, around 7:00 AM, to serve breakfast guests. The Charbar restaurant typically begins welcoming visitors for lunch (around 11:30 AM) and remains open until late evening.

Before planning your visit, we strongly recommend checking the current opening hours on the official websites of the specific establishments, as they may change on holidays or depending on the season.

Its location in the rapidly developing East Village makes this spot an excellent starting point for further exploration of the city. A walk along the waterfront or a visit to nearby parks will allow you to see the modern face of Calgary in all its glory.