Brooks Arcade is one of Utah's finest examples of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, a style which became popular in the state's commercial buildings erected during the building boom of 1889-1893.

Intended to be six stories high, the building apparently began to sink under the weight of its brick and stone superstructure and only three stories were completed. Dallas and Hedges, the architects, were prominent designers in the state from the mid 1880s until the early 1900s. They are best known for the Alfred McCune Mansion, Utah's largest most prestigious residence.

Brooks Arcade is also significant for its association with prominent Utah merchant and investor, J. G. Brooks, the first Jew to settle in Utah.

Source: NRHP nomination submitted in 1982