Washington Boulevard Building, Neoclassical high-rise building in downtown Detroit, United States
The Washington Boulevard Building is a 23-story limestone high-rise located at the corner of State Street and Washington Boulevard in downtown Detroit. Its facade displays Chicago School design elements with a prominent stone base and vertically-oriented window patterns that rise across the upper floors.
Architect Louis Kamper designed the structure in 1923 as part of the Book brothers' plan to create an upscale commercial district along Washington Boulevard. This effort reflected Detroit's growth as a major city during the early 20th century.
The building is part of a historic street where early 20th-century architecture shapes the neighborhood's character. Walking along this district, you notice how the structures from that era still define the area's visual identity.
The building is now a private residential complex and not open for interior tours, but its exterior is easily viewed from the street. The corner of State Street and Washington Boulevard offers the best vantage point to see the full limestone facade and architectural details.
The building has retained its original limestone exterior for over a century while completely transforming its interior to serve as residential housing today. This contrast between a preserved outside and reimagined inside demonstrates how historic structures adapt to serve new purposes in contemporary cities.
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