Edwin S. George Building

The Edwin S. George Building stands at 4612 Woodward Avenue with a white glazed terra cotta facade, square footprint, and flat roof that defines its early industrial character. The structure expanded from two to five stories over time, showing how it adapted to changing needs while keeping its design consistent.

Albert Kahn designed the two-story structure in 1908, with three additional floors added in 1914 to meet growing demand. The building later transitioned from industrial use to residential apartments in the early 2000s.

The building housed automotive suppliers who shaped the neighborhood's working character and daily rhythm. It stands as a reminder of the trades and businesses that once filled Woodward Avenue with activity.

The building sits along the main Woodward Avenue corridor where it is easily visible and accessible from the street. While the interior is now private residential space, the exterior architecture can be viewed and photographed at any time.

The building housed Wayne County Community College during the 1970s, an unexpected chapter that shows how the space adapted to educational needs. This use reveals how industrial structures could be repurposed for completely different functions.

Location: Michigan

Inception: 1908

Architects: Albert Kahn

GPS coordinates: 42.35419,-83.06215

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:40