Garden Court Apartments

Garden Court Apartments is a nine-story multifamily residential building with an H-shaped footprint, limestone base, and red brick facade along East Jefferson Avenue. Rounded bay windows punctuate the full height of the structure, creating a distinctive architectural rhythm across its face.

Built in 1915 and designed by Albert Kahn, the structure was commissioned by J. Harrington Walker of the Hiram Walker & Sons company and originally held 32 spacious luxury apartments. The building exemplified early 20th-century residential architecture for Detroit's wealthy.

The building shows how affluent residents chose to live in the city during Detroit's industrial boom, making such apartment complexes fashionable addresses for the well-to-do. The design and location reflect the comfort-seeking preferences of the middle and upper-class urbanites of that era.

The building is accessible from the street and easily visible from East Jefferson Avenue, allowing clear views of its exterior architecture. Visiting during daylight hours provides the best opportunity to observe the building's details and overall composition.

Commissioner J. Harrington Walker chose the top floor of the south tower as his personal residence while maintaining his business headquarters directly across the street. This arrangement allowed him to move easily between his home and his commercial operations.

Location: Detroit

Architects: Albert Kahn

GPS coordinates: 42.33944,-83.01917

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:06