Metropolitan Building (Kolkata)

The Metropolitan Building is a heritage building located in Kolkata, India, at the Chowringhee Road-Jawaharlal Nehru Road junction. Originally known as Whiteway, Laidlaw & Co., it was a prominent department store during the British Raj.

Built in 1905, the building showcases a distinct Edwardian Baroque architectural style, characterized by its impressive facade, grand arches, and intricate ornamentation. Its design is attributed to architect Thomas S. Turnbull, though some sources also credit David Waldie as involved in the design phase.

The building's name changed to Metropolitan Insurance Company Building after Whiteway, Laidlaw & Co. went bankrupt in the early 20th century. It subsequently housed the Metropolitan Insurance Company.

Over the years, the Metropolitan Building has undergone various phases of ownership and neglect. However, it remains a significant landmark in Kolkata, representing a tangible link to the city's colonial past and its evolution as a major commercial hub. Its historical and architectural value have led to its inclusion in Kolkata's list of heritage buildings. Ongoing efforts are focused on preserving and restoring the building to its former glory. It currently houses retail outlets on the ground floor and office spaces on the upper levels.