Book Tower and Book Building
The Book Tower and Book Building stand as prominent landmarks in downtown Detroit, representing a significant period of architectural ambition and economic prosperity in the city’s history. Originally the tallest building in Detroit upon its 1926 completion, the Book Tower, alongside its older companion the Book Building, embodies a unique blend of classical design and early skyscraper technology. Both structures have undergone extensive restoration, transforming them into a vibrant mixed-use development.
History
The story of the Book Tower and Book Building begins with the Book brothers, who commissioned both structures. The first major construction undertaken by the brothers was the Book Building, a 13-story structure in the Italian Renaissance style, which opened in 1917.[1] This building served as an office space and laid the groundwork for the more ambitious project to follow. Construction of the Book Tower began in 1923 and concluded in 1926.[2] Designed by architect Louis Kamper, the Book Tower was intended to transform Washington Boulevard into an upscale and fashionable district within Detroit.[3]
At the time of its opening, the 38-story Book Tower was the tallest structure in Detroit, a title it held for only two years before being surpassed by another building.[4] The building's construction coincided with the height of the Roaring '20s, a period of significant economic growth and architectural innovation in Detroit.[5] For many years, the Book Tower stood as a distinctive, if somewhat unusual, feature of the Detroit skyline. In 2015, the Book Tower was acquired by Bedrock, a real estate firm, initiating a large-scale restoration and renovation project.[6] This project aimed to transform the building into a mixed-use development, incorporating hotel, retail, and office spaces.
Geography
Both the Book Building and the Book Tower are located on Washington Boulevard in downtown Detroit, a stretch that experienced significant development during the early 20th century.[7] The buildings stand adjacent to one another, creating a unified presence on the boulevard. The location was strategically chosen to capitalize on the growing commercial activity in the area and to contribute to the development of an upscale district. The buildings’ positioning allowed them to become a focal point along Washington Boulevard, contributing to the street’s architectural character.
The Book Tower itself rises to 38 stories, dominating the surrounding cityscape. The Book Building, at 13 stories, provides a complementary, though less imposing, presence. The buildings’ proximity to other significant Detroit landmarks contributes to the overall architectural richness of the downtown area. The recent renovations have focused on preserving the historical integrity of the buildings while integrating modern amenities, ensuring their continued relevance within the evolving urban landscape.
Culture
The architectural style of the Book Tower is characterized by Roman-influenced intricacies and a classical Renaissance aesthetic.[8] The building’s facade features 29 caryatids – stone sculptures of female figures serving as architectural support – adding a unique and decorative element. The interior of the Book Tower was originally designed to include fine dining, shopping, and office spaces, reflecting a desire to create a self-contained and luxurious environment. The Rotunda, a three-story space with a massive art glass dome containing 6,000 glass panels and 7,000 jewel embellishments, serves as a central focal point and a testament to the building’s opulent design.[9]
The recent restoration efforts have focused on preserving these cultural elements while adapting the building for modern use. The plaster ceiling in the lobby has been meticulously restored, with molds of intact portions used to recreate intricate patterns and hand-painting applied for authenticity. The 2,483 windows have been replaced while maintaining historical accuracy and improving energy efficiency. The ornamentation on the elevator doors has also been replicated, preserving the building’s decorative motifs. The transformation of the upper floors into 229 residential apartments, configured in 45 different layouts, represents a shift in the building’s function while respecting its historical character.[10]
Attractions
The Book Tower itself is a significant attraction, drawing visitors interested in its architectural details and historical significance. The Rotunda, with its art glass dome and jewel embellishments, is a particularly noteworthy feature, offering a glimpse into the building’s original grandeur.[11] The restored plaster ceiling and the intricate details of the elevator doors also contribute to the building’s appeal.
With the completion of the renovation, the Book Tower now offers a mixed-use experience, including hotel accommodations, retail spaces, and office areas. This allows visitors to not only admire the building’s architecture but also to engage with its various offerings. The building’s location on Washington Boulevard places it within walking distance of other Detroit attractions, such as theaters, museums, and restaurants, further enhancing its appeal as a destination. The ongoing restoration and adaptive reuse project has transformed the Book Tower into a vibrant hub within the city’s downtown core.
Economy
The initial construction of the Book Tower and Book Building represented a significant economic investment in downtown Detroit, reflecting the city’s prosperity during the 1920s.[12] The buildings provided office space for businesses and contributed to the growth of the commercial district along Washington Boulevard. The recent $300 million renovation undertaken by Bedrock represents another substantial economic investment, aimed at revitalizing the buildings and attracting new businesses and residents.[13]
The transformation of the Book Tower into a mixed-use development is expected to generate economic activity through increased tourism, retail sales, and occupancy rates. The inclusion of hotel accommodations, retail spaces, and office areas creates a diverse revenue stream and contributes to the overall economic vitality of the downtown area. The project also created construction jobs during the renovation phase and is expected to generate ongoing employment opportunities in the hospitality, retail, and office sectors. The revitalization of the Book Tower serves as a catalyst for further investment and development in the surrounding neighborhood.
Architecture of Detroit
Downtown Detroit
List of tallest buildings in Detroit