First National Bank Building

In 1921, a steel skeleton began reaching for the Detroit sky. This was the birth of the First National Bank Building. It wasn’t just another skyscraper. It was a statement, a testament to Detroit’s burgeoning ambition. The First National Bank Building, designed by the renowned Albert Kahn, embodied the Neoclassical style. Think towering Corinthian columns, three stories tall, embracing the second floor. The building’s unusual “Z” shape wasn’t just an architectural quirk. It was a clever design to maximize natural light and ventilation for the offices within, offering breathtaking views of the Detroit River and Windsor, Canada. The First National Bank Building wasn’t just about banking. It housed one of the five largest bank lobbies in the country, boasting a staggering 69 teller windows. Imagine the hustle and bustle, the clinking of coins, the murmur of transactions. This financial heart throbbed with the city’s energy. Over the years, the First National Bank Building witnessed Detroit’s changing fortunes. It saw the city’s rise as an industrial powerhouse and its subsequent struggles. Yet, it remained a steadfast presence, a symbol of resilience. In 2011, the building, then half-vacant, found a new champion in Dan Gilbert. He recognized its potential and invested over $110 million in its revitalization. The renovations breathed new life into the First National Bank Building. The original ornate ceiling in the lobby was unveiled, a stunning reminder of its grand past, now complemented by modern touches like a video display wall and LED lighting panels. Today, the First National Bank Building stands tall once more, a vibrant hub of commerce and community. It houses businesses like Honigman LLP, one of Michigan’s largest law firms, and Amrock, a leading title insurance and closing services company. And nestled within its walls, you’ll find the bustling Central Kitchen + Bar and the aromatic Roasting Plant Coffee. The First National Bank Building is more than just a building. It’s a story of Detroit’s past, present, and future.