David Whitney House

The David Whitney House is a Romanesque-style residence on Woodward Avenue in the Midtown neighborhood of Detroit. Built with pink jasper stone, the property spans multiple floors and includes living and reception rooms, a ballroom, a library, and a separate carriage house on the grounds.

Work on the residence began in 1890 following plans by architect Gordon Lloyd and was completed four years later. After the owner's death in 1900, the property remained in the family until 1920 and later saw changing uses before being designated a landmark in 1986.

The building carries the name of the lumber magnate who commissioned it as his family residence and lived there until his death. Each room features its own Tiffany Studios glasswork, with motifs that match the function of the space and remain visible today.

The building stands on Woodward Avenue in the Midtown neighborhood and is now accessible as an upscale restaurant. Those wishing to see the architecture and interior should visit during the restaurant's operating hours, as it functions as an active dining establishment.

The elevator inside was the first in a private residence in Detroit and was considered a technical innovation at the time. A hidden compartment near the dining room originally served to store valuables and documents securely.

Location: Detroit

Inception: 1986

Architects: Gordon W. Lloyd

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 42.35266,-83.06210

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30