Bankers Trust Company Building, Detroit
| Industry | Banking |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1917 |
| Headquarters | Detroit, Michigan , United States |
The Bankers Trust Company Building is situated at 205 West Congress Street in Downtown Detroit, Michigan, within the boundaries of the Financial District. Completed in 1925, this office structure was designed by Wirt C. Rowland from Smith, Hinchman & Grylls and stands as a prominent example of Italian Romanesque Revival architecture.
History
Established in 1917, Bankers Trust Company originally conducted its operations out of the State Savings Bank Building located at West Congress and Shelby Streets. Seeking a new headquarters nearby, the bank engaged Smith, Hinchman & Grylls to create the current building, which was finalized in 1925 under the design leadership of Wirt C. Rowland. Bankers Trust remained in this building until 1948, after which it was acquired by a brokerage firm. Over time, the premises served multiple purposes including a fast food outlet, diner, and various nightclubs. In 2015, the property was purchased for $3 million by an undisclosed party.
Description
This two-story edifice showcases a terra cotta exterior adorned with intricate Italian Romanesque motifs and features expansive arched windows intended to brighten the banking hall. The arches on the ground floor are echoed on the upper level. At the corner entrance, green marble columns crowned with lion sculptures frame what once was a revolving door. The interior has undergone numerous renovations to suit different functions; additionally, a three-story International Style extension facing Shelby Street was added in 1960.