One Detroit Center

Rising 619 feet into the Detroit skyline, the Ally Detroit Center is currently the tallest office building in Michigan and a prominent feature of the city’s financial district. Originally known as Comerica Tower at Detroit Center, the skyscraper has undergone changes in both name and occupancy since its completion in 1993, reflecting the evolving economic landscape of Detroit. Its distinctive neo-Gothic spires and modern granite facade contribute to its unique post-modern architectural style, making it a recognizable landmark.

History

The building’s story begins with its conception as Comerica Tower at Detroit Center. Construction commenced in 1991 and concluded in 1993, resulting in a 43-story structure designed by the architectural partnership of John Burgee and Philip Johnson. Comerica Bank initially occupied the building as its headquarters, but in 2007, the company announced a relocation to Dallas, Texas. Comerica continued to maintain a presence in Detroit, eventually moving its remaining Michigan employees to the Comerica Bank Center at 411 Lafayette Boulevard in 2012, when their lease at One Detroit Center expired.

In March 2015, Dan Gilbert’s Bedrock Real Estate Services purchased the building for over $100 million. This acquisition signaled a new chapter for the building, culminating in its renaming to Ally Detroit Center in 2016. Ally Financial Services subsequently moved 1,300 employees into 13 floors of the building, accompanied by a $50 million investment from Ally for renovations. The building was originally completed with 1 million square feet of space, and currently has a floor area of 1,674,708 sq ft.

Geography

Located at 500 Woodward Avenue, One Detroit Center occupies a central position within Detroit’s business and financial district. Its placement provides convenient access to major thoroughfares and other key destinations in the downtown area. The building's orientation is North-South and East-West, as indicated by a plaque along the Windsor waterfront park.

In terms of height, One Detroit Center stands at 619 feet (189 meters) tall. While the Penobscot Building has a greater number of stories, One Detroit Center surpasses it in overall height due to its taller floor heights. It is currently the tallest office building in Michigan and the second tallest building in the state overall, behind the central hotel tower of the Renaissance Center. It ranks as the third tallest building in Detroit, following the Renaissance Center and Hudson’s Detroit.

Architecture

Designed by John Burgee and Philip Johnson, One Detroit Center exemplifies post-modern architectural principles. The building is constructed primarily of granite and is distinguished by its dramatic, gabled rooftop and neo-Gothic style spires. These spires, often described as Flemish-inspired, are designed to blend harmoniously with the city’s historic skyline. The building has been referred to as a "twin gothic structure" due to the paired arrangement of its spires.

The design of One Detroit Center earned it an Award of Excellence in 1996. Replicas of the building have become popular souvenir items alongside those of other iconic Detroit skyscrapers. The building’s 43 stories house a variety of tenants, including prominent Detroit law firms and PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Economy

One Detroit Center plays a significant role in Detroit’s economic landscape as a Class-A office building. The building’s occupancy by major corporations like Ally Financial Services contributes to the financial vitality of the downtown area. Ally Financial’s decision to relocate 1,300 employees to One Detroit Center and invest $50 million in renovations demonstrates a commitment to the city’s economic growth.

The building also supports a range of businesses through its retail spaces, a restaurant, and a gym. The purchase of the building by Bedrock Real Estate Services in 2015 further indicates a belief in the long-term economic potential of downtown Detroit. The building’s presence contributes to the overall appeal of the area for businesses and investors.

Architecture of Detroit Downtown Detroit List of tallest buildings in Michigan Bedrock Real Estate Services