How tall do you think this majestic structure is? Look at the Cadillac Tower. A giant of Neo-Gothic architecture it rises proudly in downtown Detroit. Built in 1927 as the Barlum Tower it was initially 40 stories high including two underground levels. That made it the first building outside New York City and Chicago to reach that impressive height.
The Cadillac Tower isn’t just a skyscraper. It’s a piece of Detroit’s history. It houses the city’s Planning and Development Department and its Recreation Department. Imagine the stories these walls could tell. The architects Bonnah & Chaffee created a masterpiece using terra cotta and brick. Notice the varying heights of the cornices and parapets. The corner spires reach a height of 130 meters. The central spires match the mechanical penthouse at 133.4 meters.
For years one side of the building showcased huge murals. From 1994 to 2000 a 14-story portrait of Detroit Lions star Barry Sanders graced the building. A Nike sponsorship made it possible. After that it featured Detroit Red Wings star Steve Yzerman. Today you see an advertisement for the MGM Grand Detroit Casino.
The Cadillac Tower has seen ambitious plans come and go. In 2008 there were plans for a $150 million Cadillac Centre. This mixed-use complex would have connected to the tower. That project was delayed indefinitely. It was replaced by the Meridian Health Plan’s new headquarters. Currently the real estate firm Bedrock owned by Dan Gilbert owns the tower.
The western side of the Cadillac Tower tells another story. A relatively small number of windows exist on that side. This is because of its neighbor the Cadillac Square Building. That building stood next to the Cadillac Tower. It was demolished in the 1970s. There was no need for windows on that side initially.
The Cadillac Tower stands tall. A testament to Detroit’s past and a symbol of its enduring spirit. Its history is woven into the fabric of the city. It is a landmark building with a history as rich and varied as Detroit itself. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005 a recognition of its architectural and historical significance. Take a moment to appreciate the Cadillac Tower. A symbol of Detroit’s enduring strength and ambition.