New Center Area and the Argonaut Building

The New Center Area does it right, never letting down the pressure to revitalize the area. When General Motors (GM) moved its headquarters to the Renaissance Center, things could have gone either way for the area long dominated by GM. Instead, the state came in and bought the GM Headquarters building for state offices, transforming it into Cadillac Square. Many housing/loft projects are also underway in the area. According to the Free Press, a plan to have the College for Creative Studies take over the 11-story Argonaut Building is now moving forward as well.

The Argonaut building, designed by Albert Kahn, is 11 stories and over 70 years old. Actually two buildings connected on some floors, it was put up for sale by GM in 2001. It didn't sell until 2004, however, to California Developer, Orton Development, Inc. Orton planned loft, office and retail space.

Cross your fingers that the College for Creative Studies does expand to the area. Not only would it utilize the historic building, but undoubtedly bring in new residents, as well as the businesses to serve them. What a great way to infuse the area with new energy.

Other sites of interest:

• More Detroit Landmarks
• GM Press Release (2004)