Built in 1885 Arding and Hobbs department store was the largest south of the River. See Neighbour for a photo of the building.
It was destroyed by a fire on 20 December 1909. Newspapers from the time list 7 dead, one of which is 'unknown'. Later remains are identified as Joseph George Neighbour.
The current building, designed by James G. S. Gibson (1861 – 1951) was opened in 1910. It was operated by Allders 1970s - 2005. Then part of it was taken over by Debenhams which closed in 2020. The building is (2025) undergoing a renovation.
Sources and further information: Wandsworth's Clapham Junction Conservation Area Appraisal, Lavender Hill.
2025: Londonist reported on the revamped building, now a mix of office space, members' club, gym and restaurants. Also, about the fire: "Nine people lost their lives in the blaze, many of whom had leaped from upper floors to escape the smoke. A tenth person died in an accident during subsequent clearance of the site."
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