Why was the Guardian Building built?

It is known as Detroit’s Cathedral of Finance. Originally named the Union Guardian Building, this building was created for the Union Trust Co. when it required more space after a merger with the equally huge National Bank of Commerce.

What is the Guardian Building used for?

It was designated a National Historic Landmark on June 29, 1989, and the associated Detroit Financial District is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Guardian building includes retail and a tourist gift shop.

When was the Guardian Building built?

1929
Guardian Building/Years built

The Guardian is a Class-A office building, owned by Wayne County, Michigan and serves as its headquarters. Built in 1928 and finished in 1929, the building was originally called the Union Trust Building and is considered one of the boldest examples of art-deco architecture.

Can you go to the top of the Guardian Building?

Just walk in the lobby and check it out! This is in the top 3 builings in Detroit. No charge to walk in and check it out.

How tall is the Guardian Building?

495′, 632′ to tip
Guardian Building/Height

How old is the Guardian Building Detroit?

92c. 1929
Guardian Building/Age

How many windows does the Guardian Building have?

The steel-framed building is covered with 1.8 million bricks in a uniquely formulated shade of orange designated as Guardian orange by Rowland. A granite base with carvings by world-renowned sculptor Corrado Parducci includes multistory windows surrounded by tile.

What is Art Deco buildings?

Art Deco buildings have a sleek, linear appearance with stylized, often geometric ornamentation. The primary façade of Art Deco buildings often feature a series of set backs that create a stepped outline. Low-relief decorative panels can be found at entrances, around windows, along roof edges or as string courses.

How many stories is the Guardian Building?

40
Guardian Building/Floors

Can you tour the Guardian Building in Detroit?

Pure Detroit offers free, public guided tours of the Guardian Building (as well as the city’s other architectural marvel, the Fisher Building) on Saturdays and Sundays; check the Pure Detroit website to find tour dates and times. You’ll find the Guardian Building in downtown Detroit on Griswold Street.

What was the original name of the Guardian Building?

Built in 1928 and finished in 1929, the building was originally called the Union Trust Building and is a bold example of Art Deco architecture, including art moderne designs. At the top of the Guardian Building’s spire is a large American Flag, complementing the four smaller flags atop nearby 150 West Jefferson.

When was The Guardian Building built in Michigan?

The Guardian is a class-A office building owned by Wayne County, Michigan and serves as its headquarters. Built in 1928 and finished in 1929, the building was originally called the Union Trust Building and is a bold example of Art Deco architecture, including art moderne designs.

Why is the Guardian Building a national landmark?

The Guardian Building is a timeless depiction of creativity and accomplishment, it represents a past era enriched by people who believed in the success of Detroit and its many cultures. The building has been designated a National Historic Landmark, the highest honor given by the National Park Service.

Is the Guardian Building an art deco building?

The Guardian Building is one of the most significant and striking Art Deco skyscrapers in the world. The building’s taller north tower and smaller octagonal south tower are connected with a nave-like block similar to the plan of a cathedral.