A ten-story modernist office tower in Detroit’s New Center, designed by renowned architect Albert Kahn and built by the Fisher brothers. Connected to its sister structure, the Fisher Building, by an underground pedestrian tunnel.
At a glance
Completed in 1931, the Albert Kahn Building stands as a landmark of early twentieth-century Detroit commercial architecture. Originally called the New Center Building, it was renamed in 1988 to honor its celebrated designer. The structure mirrors the architectural sophistication of the adjacent Fisher Building, with which it shares both design lineage and physical connection.
History
The Fisher brothers—Frederick, Charles, William, Lawrence, Edward, Alfred, and Howard—commissioned Albert Kahn to design this office building during Detroit’s industrial boom. From 1940 through 1980, the ground floor housed a Saks Fifth Avenue store. In 2015, developers Redico LLC and HFZ Capital Group purchased both the Albert Kahn and Fisher buildings at auction for $12.2 million, initiating redevelopment plans. A subsequent ownership change in 2018 brought Northern Equities and Lutz Real Estate into partnership, with plans to add 211 apartments and 75,000 square feet of retail and commercial space.
What you see
The ten-story building demonstrates Kahn’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and refined materials. Polished marble floors grace the lobby, while brass elevator doors reflect the architect’s attention to detail. Its architectural vocabulary parallels the Fisher Building, creating visual continuity across Second Avenue. An underground pedestrian tunnel links the two structures, facilitating movement between them.
Cultural significance
The Albert Kahn Building exemplifies the collaborative vision of early-twentieth-century Detroit titans. Albert Kahn’s innovative design language shaped American industrial and commercial architecture, while the Fisher brothers’ patronage supported his ambitious projects. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980, the building represents both architectural achievement and the city’s automotive era prosperity.
Key facts
- Location: 7430 Second Avenue, Detroit, Michigan
- Completed: 1931
- Architect: Albert Kahn
- Original name: New Center Building (renamed Albert Kahn Building in 1988)
- Stories: Ten
- National Register listing: 1980
- Coordinates: 42.37°N, 83.08°W
Practical information & getting there
The building is located in Detroit’s New Center neighborhood, accessible via Second Avenue. It remains an active office building and is not regularly open for public tours. Visitors can view the exterior and access the public lobby to appreciate the marble and brass detailing. Contact local Detroit tourism or check the building’s current management for any special access opportunities.
Sources & resources
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