A Visitor’s Guide to the Guardian Building: Architecture, History, and Tours

The Guardian Building, located in downtown Detroit, Michigan, is an iconic architectural gem and one of the most significant examples of Art Deco architecture in the United States. Built in 1929, this towering structure stands at 40 stories and features a vibrant blend of Native American, Aztec, and Art Deco design elements, making it a true masterpiece of modern architecture. Known as the “Cathedral of Finance”, the Guardian Building was originally constructed as the headquarters for the Union Trust Company and has since become one of Detroit’s most beloved landmarks.

The building’s stunning interior and exterior details, from its mosaic-tiled ceilings to its intricate stonework and bold color palette, make it a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in Detroit’s rich cultural heritage.

A Symbol of Detroit’s Roaring Twenties

The Guardian Building was designed by renowned architect Wirt C. Rowland of the architectural firm Smith, Hinchman & Grylls. It was completed just before the Great Depression, at a time when Detroit’s economy was booming thanks to the growth of the automobile industry. The building’s design is a testament to the city’s ambition and optimism during the Roaring Twenties, as well as a symbol of Detroit’s status as a major financial and industrial center.

What to See and Do at the Guardian Building

  1. The Exterior: A Blend of Art Deco and Native American Influences:
    • The Guardian Building’s exterior is a striking blend of Art Deco geometry and Native American-inspired motifs. The building is clad in orange Glazed Terra Cotta tiles, which give it a bold and distinctive appearance. The façade is adorned with geometric patterns and triangular forms that evoke traditional Native American designs, giving the building a unique identity among the city’s skyscrapers.
    • The Towering Spire:
      • At the top of the building, a tall spire rises, completing the building’s dramatic silhouette. The spire is designed with intricate detailing that reflects the building’s overall Art Deco aesthetic.
  2. The Guardian Lobby: A Masterpiece of Interior Design:
    • Step inside the Guardian Building, and you’ll be greeted by one of the most breathtaking interiors in Detroit. The lobby features a soaring vaulted ceiling covered in vibrant tiles, geometric patterns, and frescoes. Designed by muralist Ezra Winter and tile-maker Mary Chase Perry Stratton, the interior showcases a vibrant color palette of reds, blues, golds, and greens, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
    • The Mural of Michigan:
      • One of the most striking features of the lobby is the large mural by Ezra Winter, which depicts Michigan’s natural resources and industries. The mural pays homage to the state’s economic contributions, particularly in the automotive and manufacturing sectors.
  3. The Cathedral-like Vaulted Ceiling:
    • The lobby’s vaulted ceiling is often compared to the ceiling of a cathedral, with its intricate tilework and sense of grandeur. The ceiling’s bold geometric patterns and vivid colors are a hallmark of Art Deco design, and they create a sense of movement and energy that draws visitors’ eyes upward.
    • The Tiffany Glass Clock:
      • Another highlight of the lobby is the Tiffany glass clock located above the elevators. This beautifully crafted timepiece is set in a colorful mosaic and adds to the building’s Art Deco charm.
  4. The Guardian Banking Hall: A Grand Space:
    • The Guardian Banking Hall is located just beyond the main lobby and is equally impressive in its design. This large open space was originally used as a banking hall for the Union Trust Company and features towering columns, ornate tilework, and marble floors. The banking hall’s design evokes the grandeur of ancient temples and palaces, reinforcing the building’s nickname, the Cathedral of Finance.
    • Historic Banking Vaults:
      • While the banking hall no longer serves its original function, visitors can still see the massive banking vault doors and explore the space where some of Detroit’s most important financial transactions once took place.
  5. The Guardian Coffee Shop and Retail Spaces:
    • The Guardian Building is also home to several retail shops, cafés, and businesses that offer a modern touch within this historic setting. One of the most popular spots is the Guardian Coffee Shop, where visitors can enjoy a coffee while soaking in the building’s incredible architecture. The retail spaces blend seamlessly with the Art Deco design, making the building a vibrant, working space as well as a historical landmark.
  6. The Viewing Deck:
    • The Guardian Building once had a public observation deck on its 32nd floor, which offered panoramic views of the Detroit skyline and the Detroit River. While the deck is no longer open to the public, the views from within the building are still impressive, especially from the upper floors, which offer glimpses of the surrounding cityscape.

Special Tours and Events

  1. Guardian Building Tours:
    • The Guardian Building offers guided tours that provide in-depth insights into the history, design, and architecture of the building. These tours are a great way to learn about the building’s construction, the materials used in its design, and the cultural significance of its Art Deco and Native American influences.
    • Architecture Tours:
      • For those particularly interested in architectural history, the building is often featured in Detroit’s architectural tours, which explore the city’s many historic buildings and skyscrapers.
  2. Special Events and Film Shoots:
    • The Guardian Building is frequently used as a venue for special events, including weddings, corporate events, and art shows. The building’s unique design and stunning interior make it a popular location for film shoots and photo sessions as well.

Dining and Shopping Near the Guardian Building

  1. Roasting Plant Detroit:
    • Just a short walk from the Guardian Building, the Roasting Plant is a must-visit for coffee lovers. This unique café roasts its beans on-site using an innovative Javabot system, delivering fresh coffee with every cup. It’s a great place to stop for a caffeine fix while exploring downtown Detroit.
  2. The Apparatus Room:
    • Located nearby in the Detroit Foundation Hotel, The Apparatus Room offers a fine dining experience in a beautifully restored firehouse. The menu features modern American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, and it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for an upscale dining experience near the Guardian Building.
  3. The Hudson Café:
    • For a more casual dining experience, The Hudson Café is just a few blocks away and serves breakfast and brunch favorites, including pancakes, waffles, and omelets. It’s a great spot for a hearty meal before or after visiting the Guardian Building.

How to Get There

The Guardian Building is centrally located in downtown Detroit, making it easily accessible by car, public transportation, and on foot.

  • Address: 500 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
  • Public Transport: The building is easily accessible via QLine streetcar, with stops nearby, and various SMART bus routes.
  • Parking: Parking is available at several nearby garages, including the Financial District Garage and Campus Martius Garage.

Visiting Hours and Admission

The Guardian Building is open to the public during regular business hours, and while the building is home to offices and retail spaces, visitors are welcome to explore the lobby and public areas.

  • Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.. The building is closed on weekends, but tours may be available on select Saturdays.
  • Admission Fees: Admission to the Guardian Building’s lobby is free. Guided tours may have a fee, depending on the tour provider.

Best Time to Visit

The Guardian Building can be enjoyed year-round, but here are some tips for planning your visit:

  • Weekdays: The best time to visit is during regular business hours on weekdays when the building is fully open to the public, and guided tours are available.
  • Special Events: If you’re visiting during Detroit Design Month or other special events, the Guardian Building often participates in architecture tours and hosts special programming that provides even more insight into its history and design.

A Must-Visit for Architecture and History Enthusiasts

The Guardian Building is one of the most visually striking and architecturally significant buildings in Detroit, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city’s Art Deco heritage and its connection to the vibrant culture of the 1920s. Whether you’re marveling at the intricate tilework in the lobby, learning about the building’s financial history, or simply enjoying the stunning views from the upper floors, the Guardian Building provides an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in architecture, design, or Detroit’s history.

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