Historic Detroit: The Detroit News Building
The Detroit News Building on Lafayette Boulevard in Downtown Detroit. Photograph by Ryan Southen.
It all started when…
As the weather softens and the itch to get outside becomes harder to ignore, we want to highlight some of our favorite historic architectural gems in Detroit that contribute to the iconic skyline, perfect for viewing on a walking tour of Detroit. We will dive into the architectural exterior and interior features that make these buildings unique and the story behind the buildings. Each is a unique book waiting to be opened and have its story told.
Many of the most beautiful and iconic historic buildings in Detroit were abandoned or demolished until what some call Detroit’s recent renaissance. Those that were able to be restored and saved have begun new lives in Detroit, and their historic architectural and interior features provide an opportunity to gain a revised perspective amongst a new generation.
One very important part to remember when discussing restoration of historic buildings, and especially one that is pursuing a national register listing, is the importance of respecting the integrity of the original design. New exterior or interior work completed must be in high contrast to the style of the existing work to preserve the historic integrity instead of attempting to “match or mimic” what was previously existing.
For instance, if a building had ionic fluted columns in the exterior and these were determined to be integral to the composition of the design, these cannot be re-created or replicated if new columns are needed. The new columns must provide a clear separation of stylistic tendency to represent the variation and importance of historic integrity.
We are excited to bring you the first in this series, highlighting the Detroit News Building.
As the weather softens and the itch to get outside becomes harder to ignore, we want to highlight some of our favorite historic architectural gems in Detroit that contribute to the iconic skyline, perfect for viewing on a walking tour of Detroit. We will dive into the architectural exterior and interior features that make these buildings unique and the story behind the buildings. Each is a unique book waiting to be opened and have its story told.
Many of the most beautiful and iconic historic buildings in Detroit were abandoned or demolished until what some call Detroit’s recent renaissance. Those that were able to be restored and saved have begun new lives in Detroit, and their historic architectural and interior features provide an opportunity to gain a revised perspective amongst a new generation.
One very important part to remember when discussing restoration of historic buildings, and especially one that is pursuing a national register listing, is the importance of respecting the integrity of the original design. New exterior or interior work completed must be in high contrast to the style of the existing work to preserve the historic integrity instead of attempting to “match or mimic” what was previously existing.
For instance, if a building had ionic fluted columns in the exterior and these were determined to be integral to the composition of the design, these cannot be re-created or replicated if new columns are needed. The new columns must provide a clear separation of stylistic tendency to represent the variation and importance of historic integrity.
We are excited to bring you the first in this series, highlighting the Detroit News Building.