211 West Fort Street stands as one of the few high-rise buildings in Detroit featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, a defining characteristic of its International Style design. Completed in 1963 and designed by the architectural firm Harley, Ellington, Cowin & Stirton, the building exemplifies the International Style desig movement’s core principles: minimalism, functionality, and the use of modern materials. Its structure utilizes a frame system of concrete slabs and columns, allowing for non-load-bearing interior walls that provide flexibility in creating spacious, open office layouts.

The expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, set within a grid of precast concrete frames, are one of the building’s most distinctive features. These large windows not only contribute to the building's sleek, modern aesthetic but also allow for exceptional views of Detroit’s skyline. They provide ample natural light, blurring the boundaries between the interior and the exterior and enhancing the open, airy feel of the building’s interiors. As one of the only high-rise buildings in Detroit with this feature, 211 West Fort Street stands out in the city’s architectural landscape.

Rising to a height of 367 feet, 211 boasts 27 floors, with its top floor serving as the building’s cooling tower. The building’s unique design is complemented by the use of high-quality materials like black granite for the elevator banks and travertine tiles in the lobby that add sophistication and contrast to the sleek and functional design.

211’s ARCHITECTURAL VISION

The architectural firm Harley, Ellington, Cowin and Stirton played a crucial role in shaping 211 West Fort Street. Founded in 1933, the firm became one of Michigan's most prominent modern architectural practices. Known for their innovative and functional designs, they were instrumental in the development of several key projects across the region, including the south wing addition to the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Department of State Building in Washington, D.C.

Their work on 211 West Fort Street exemplifies the firm’s mastery of the International Style. By incorporating a combination of cutting-edge construction techniques and the use of steel and concrete, the firm was able to create a building that stood out not only for its architectural beauty but also for its practical and efficient design. Harley, Ellington, Cowin & Stirton’s legacy continues to influence modern architecture, with their work on the 211 West Fort Street standing as a lasting testament to their vision and craftsmanship.

1962

Photograph capturing the excavation of Fort Lernoult. Dr. Arnold Pilling of Wayne State University is seen discussing a cross beam with Raymond T. Perring, President of Detroit Bank and Trust Company.