First National Building

The First National Building is a skyscraper in Detroit's Financial District featuring an ornate limestone exterior with classical columns along its facade. The structure houses offices, restaurants, and retail spaces, with an underground parking garage connected through the ground floor.

The building was completed in 1922 and was the city's tallest structure at that time, replacing an earlier hotel on the site. It marked a moment of rapid growth in Detroit's financial sector during the city's period of economic expansion.

The banking hall inside displays its original grandeur with spacious rooms and refined details created by a renowned architect. Visitors can still experience the elegance of these spaces when entering the building.

The building houses various shops and restaurants spread across multiple levels, making it worth exploring the different floors during a visit. Access to underground parking makes arriving by car convenient, and the interior layout is straightforward to navigate.

The building has a Z-shaped floor plan specifically designed to bring natural light into all office areas. This unusual design sets it apart clearly from other structures downtown.

Location: Detroit

Inception: 1930

Architects: Albert Kahn

Floors above the ground: 26

Part of: Detroit Financial District

GPS coordinates: 42.33103,-83.04589

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:44