One Woodward Avenue

One Woodward Avenue is a 28-story skyscraper in the International Style featuring white marble piers and narrow windows set within pre-cast concrete panels across its facade. The structure displays the clean geometric lines and functional design characteristic of this architectural movement.

Architect Minoru Yamasaki designed this building in 1962 as the headquarters for Michigan Consolidated Gas Company. This project represented an important step in Yamasaki's career before he went on to gain wider international recognition for other major works.

A bronze sculpture titled Passo di Danza by Italian artist Giacomo Manzu depicting a ballet dancer stands in the entrance fountain, adding an artistic touch to the building. Visitors often notice this artwork while passing through the main foyer.

The building sits within the Detroit Financial District with direct connections to surrounding business areas. Underground parking is accessible from Larned Street, and the main lobby provides convenient access to the downtown core.

The interior glass lobby spans three stories and features 82 large panels paired with custom lighting fixtures designed by sculptor Lee DuSell to evoke the appearance of gas flames. This subtle design choice references the building's original purpose as a gas company headquarters.

Location: Michigan

Inception: 1962

Architects: Minoru Yamasaki

Architectural style: International Style

Floors above the ground: 28

Part of: Detroit Financial District

GPS coordinates: 42.32889,-83.04556

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:49