The Albert Kahn Building, originally known as the New Center Building, was constructed in 1931 by the Fisher brothers and designed by the renowned architect Albert Kahn. In 1980, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its architectural significance.

Project Overview

In the summer of 2019, Allen Architectural Metals was engaged by Cunningham Limp, the project’s general contractor, to restore the building’s 700 double-hung bronze windows. The initial plan involved cleaning the windows, replacing broken glass with ¼” monolithic glass, and installing storm windows. However, upon thorough inspection, our team determined that the windows were in excellent condition despite minimal maintenance over the years. We proposed a more comprehensive restoration approach, including making the windows operable and incorporating insulated glazing to enhance energy efficiency.

Restoration Process

Our team meticulously removed, cleaned, and applied a bronze patina to the window sashes and frames. We collaborated with NSG Pilkington to develop specialized glazing techniques that minimized thermal stress between the historic bronze frames and the new vacuum-insulated glass (VIG), thereby improving overall performance. Additionally, we fabricated and installed new hardware to replace missing or irreparably damaged components. The restored windows were then reinstalled, and the building’s bronze entrance and storefront elements were cleaned and repatinated.

Onsite Workshop and Community Engagement

Recognizing the project’s scale and duration, we proposed establishing an onsite workshop within the building’s expansive ground floor. This initiative not only reduced our carbon footprint by eliminating the need for transportation to and from our Alabama facility but also allowed for enhanced quality control and oversight of the restoration process.

In our commitment to community involvement, we hired local Detroit residents with basic mechanical skills and provided them with training in historic restoration techniques. Many of these individuals have since continued their careers with Allen Architectural Metals, contributing to other significant restoration projects in Detroit, such as the Michigan Central Station and the Cadillac Book Tower Redevelopment.

Finishing Touches

The project architects, Kraemer Design Group, specified distinct finishes for the bronze elements: a natural, oxidized “green” patina for the exterior and an antique bronze statuary finish for the interior, achieving a warm golden tone that complemented the building’s interior aesthetics. We accomplished this through a combination of cleaning, hand finishing, and waxing techniques.