In 1900 Charles E. Loose built the Loose Block to house his offices among other businesses. It stood between the Provo Commercial and Savings Bank and Farrer Brothers & Co. Dry Goods, both of which he was vice-president. Loose (1853-1929) was one of the wealthiest men in Utah—making his money in mining (Tintic Mining District)

He also dealt in real estate and .other businesses–becoming one of the persons who built Provo’s east side commercial district.

Later the building, was called the Express Building (by 1913) and still later (1915) the Grand Central Building. C. E. Loose was manager of the Grand Central Mining Co., Jones Farrer was president. The company operated the Grand Central mine in Tintic. The Provo Drug Co. began doing business from the building about 1910–the company continued there many years.

This two-story brick building has one extravagant projecting bay window flanked by two rectangular windows on the second story. Ornamental metal and plaster work accentuates the windows, the bracketted roof cornice and first story moulding. These ornamental pieces are highlighted with paint which contrasts with the white the rest of the building is now painted.

A metal canopy has been added to the first floor covering an entrance which has been reworked.

The first story interior has been extensively remodeled by the current owners to accommodate their fine jewelry business.

19 North University Avenue in Provo, Utah