The Guardian
Detroit was once a boomtown. In 1920 there were about 993,000 people living in the city. By 1940 the population had nearly doubled to 1,623,000 people, an incredible increase in such a short period of time. Fast growth came with expansion, and that meant plenty of new schools, homes, and business such as gas stations, movie theaters, hardware stores, etc. These had to be built to accommodate the influx of people. That period was also a time when many of the city’s tall skyscrapers were constructed, including two of the most famous from that period: The Guardian and Penobscot, both designed in the ornate Art Deco architectural style.
The Art Deco style can be defined by its unique brickwork and sharply defined zigzag designs made of colorful Pewabic tile. It also features Terra-cotta facades and unusual door openings that remind me of an entrance to an ancient tomb. It was at its peak during the 1930s and 1940s. However, the Deco style was not limited to the tall buildings of downtown Detroit.
Amazing, highly detailed entry way
Beautiful brick work and facial sculptures
Many of the smaller single and two-story commercial buildings could be found along any of the city’s major roads. Gratiot Avenue, Grand River, Michigan Avenue and others had buildings constructed in the same style. They, too, featured flowing, rounded brickwork; colorful, elaborate highlights; and other sleek design elements of the era.
Note the detail along the roof line on this beauty
Check out the relief work above the door and windows
In some cases, a few of these smaller 1930 classics have been restored, but unfortunately, many haven’t, leading to deterioration through abandonment. Others have been “updated” and “modernized” over time, losing much of their charm. During this period of change, most of the Deco elements such as the decorative tile, ornamental three dimensional sculpted reliefs, geometric patterns, and other highlights have been lost. Riding past these little gems and looking past the changes the buildings have gone through, it is quite easy to see the overall integrity of the design and slick lines of the structures are still in place.
Near Eastern Market, now under restoration
Detail of the building’s geometric design
Subtle, curved brickwork is an Art Deco trait
Although the decorative trim is gone, the building retains its Art Deco integrity
Take a look at the many old and probably closed movie theatres in Detroit. A great many are Art Decco as well.
Hi Dr J –
Yes indeed, many of Detroit’s theaters were built in the Art Deco period. Too bad we lost most of the smaller ones located outside of the downtown area.
Thanks for your comment!
Charlie