Guardian Building

Have you ever gazed upon a building and felt a sense of awe? The Guardian Building in Detroit evokes that feeling. The Guardian Building stands as a testament to Detroit’s rich history and architectural prowess. This majestic skyscraper, completed in 1929, originally bore the name Union Trust Building. It showcases a striking blend of Art Deco and Art Moderne styles. The Guardian Building quickly earned the nickname “Cathedral of Finance”. This nickname speaks not only to its imposing stature, but also to its intricate details that resemble a grand cathedral. The design, by architect Wirt C. Rowland, features Native American motifs inside and out. Look closely at the brickwork. Notice the unique blend of colored brick, tile, limestone, and terra cotta. This brick, specially selected by Rowland, became so iconic it was marketed as “Union Trust Brick” and later “Guardian brick.” Rowland’s meticulous attention extended beyond the exterior. He even designed the furniture for the bank’s offices, the tableware, linens, and waitress uniforms for the building’s restaurant. Step inside the Guardian Building’s three-story vaulted lobby. You are surrounded by a symphony of color and craftsmanship. Pewabic and Rookwood tiles adorn the walls, showcasing the artistry of Mary Chase Perry Stratton, who collaborated closely with Rowland. A Monel metal screen, a unique feature for its time, separates the lobby from the banking hall. At the center of this screen, a Tiffany-designed clock keeps watch over the bustling space. Look up to admire the stunning mosaic by Ezra Winter, depicting a pine tree and the Union Trust Company’s mission statement. The banking hall itself is an acoustic marvel. Its ceiling, a hand-painted canvas stretched over horsehair, dampens sound. The Guardian Building wasn’t just a marvel of design, it was also a pioneer in technology. The elevators were the first to automatically stop level with the floor and open the doors. This innovation, along with the use of Monel metal instead of traditional brass and bronze, set a precedent for future skyscrapers. The Guardian Building has witnessed Detroit’s history unfold, serving as a U.S. Army Command Center during World War II. Today, owned by Wayne County, it stands as a symbol of resilience. The Guardian Building is more than just a building. It’s a story etched in steel and stone, a symbol of Detroit’s enduring spirit.