Pasadena Apartments

Pasadena Apartments is a multifamily residential building constructed from yellow brick with limestone details on its lower levels. The eleven-story structure features a distinctive column of bay windows that runs continuously from the basement through the tenth floor.

The building was completed in 1902 as Detroit's first high-rise residential structure, launching a new housing trend in the expanding city. Its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places in 1985 recognized its architectural and social importance.

The building reflects how wealthy Detroit residents embraced urban living in refined apartment settings instead of secluded mansions during the early 1900s. The generous window placement and shared common areas reveal a shift toward community-oriented residential life in the city.

The building is situated on East Jefferson Avenue and houses 170 residential units combining preserved historical elements with updated facilities. Visitors can appreciate the exterior and public lobby areas to view the original architectural details and craftsmanship from the early 1900s.

The structure was pioneering in its use of reinforced concrete for residential construction, allowing greater flexibility in interior design. This innovative approach enabled residents in the upper five floors to customize their suite layouts based on personal preferences.