Simpson Tower

Simpson Tower is a modern office building with 33 floors located at 401 Bay Street in Toronto. Its design is divided into two distinct sections: a transparent glass-based lower portion and upper levels constructed with precast concrete panels.

The tower was built in 1968 by architect John B. Parkin as the headquarters for the Robert Simpson department store chain. In 1978, the Hudson's Bay Company purchased the building and has occupied it as office space since then.

The building takes its name from the Simpson department store that once anchored the neighborhood as a shopping destination. Its design with a distinct separation between base and upper levels reflects the relationship between street-level activity and office work above.

The tower sits across from Nathan Phillips Square and is easily accessible by public transportation networks. Its central location near key downtown areas makes it simple to visit while exploring the downtown core.

The building received a new exterior cladding in 2017 while preserving its original architectural character. A mechanical floor positioned midway through the structure creates a visual break between the lower and upper sections.

Location: Toronto

Inception: 1968

Architects: John B. Parkin

Official opening: 1968

Architectural style: modern architecture

Floors above the ground: 33

Height: 144 m

GPS coordinates: 43.65200,-79.38120

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:40