The Arding and Hobbs department store building was built in 1885 to accommodate the shopping needs of the ever-increasing population around Clapham Junction railway station. The store is famed for being one of the largest and most beautiful places to shop outside central London. In 1909 a large fire in the building meant the shop had to be extensively rebuilt and the cupola dome was fitted as part of the restructure. The shop is still a functioning department store.