Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 112 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 205.188.116.137
| Posted on Wednesday, May 03, 2006 - 8:57 pm: | |
Does anyone know the current status of this building? Is it mostly vacant? I never hear anything about it. http://www.emporis.com/en/il/i m/?id=271054 |
Apbest Member Username: Apbest
Post Number: 16 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 68.40.65.66
| Posted on Wednesday, May 03, 2006 - 9:13 pm: | |
its office space, probably with a relatively high vacancy rate 40-50%? Its being regularly light at night now, which is a positive change, maybe showin some sort of positive trend. They had management problems back in like 1994 and the electricity was shut off. But its still in operation, however, it could probably use "Guardian-building-like" management mindset shift along with the Book tower and other older office buildings. By which i mean more lobby retail and doorman, ammentities, etc (Message edited by apbest on May 03, 2006) |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 114 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 205.188.116.137
| Posted on Wednesday, May 03, 2006 - 9:34 pm: | |
Is the building in good condition? |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 1461 Registered: 02-2005 Posted From: 71.144.95.162
| Posted on Wednesday, May 03, 2006 - 11:22 pm: | |
This will be premier office space when demand comes around again and a "Guardian-building-like" investment strategy comes with that. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 117 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 205.188.116.137
| Posted on Wednesday, May 03, 2006 - 11:56 pm: | |
Mackinaw, any idea what the lobby looks like? Anything like Guardian? Often buildings of this era have grand public areas. |
Lmichigan Member Username: Lmichigan
Post Number: 3631 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 67.172.95.197
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 12:01 am: | |
If office demand doesn't peak for quite some time, they should also consider turning the top floor into residential space. The small floors plates are perfect for residential use, and pretty bad for modern office use unless they hope to have a windfall of small office tenants looking for space on Capitol Park (not likely in the foreseeable future, IMO). But, who knows... |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 118 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 205.188.116.137
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 12:09 am: | |
That would be amazing residential space and IMO it would be a destination address. Name recognition (?) and great views. |
Fho Member Username: Fho
Post Number: 42 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 68.85.149.176
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 4:50 am: | |
The lobby is quite small and reserved but classy. It has recently been restored to its original appearance after one of those horrible 60s renovations where a drop ceiling and drywall were placed over quality materials and decor. There is a photo in the lobby of what it looked like before the restoration. I've heard that the power and heat still go out sometimes. |
Merchantgander Member Username: Merchantgander
Post Number: 1755 Registered: 01-2005 Posted From: 150.198.150.244
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 8:12 am: | |
The building is for sale, if capital park ever comes around then this building would benefit. |
Detroitstar Member Username: Detroitstar
Post Number: 12 Registered: 01-2006 Posted From: 65.42.16.138
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 9:04 am: | |
Who currently manages the building? What is the lease rate? I scoured the net but didnt find anything. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 123 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 216.223.168.132
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 10:18 am: | |
I am not able to find anything either. I can't even find out who David Stott was. |
Bobj Member Username: Bobj
Post Number: 687 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 65.221.183.120
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 10:36 am: | |
I been in the building several time, it could use some updating, it kind of reminds me of the condition of the Book Tower - not bad , but needs work. It could be a great building, with small floors and it's location, I thinnk residential would be a very good option. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 1466 Registered: 02-2005 Posted From: 68.248.7.11
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 10:44 am: | |
Looks like we all need to take a field trip to the lobby of the Stott Tower. I based my statement on its marketability solely on location and the recognizable nature of the tower. A slightly gentrified upper Griswold (north of MI avenue) would be quite a site. It's a beautiful row of buildings. |
Krawlspace Member Username: Krawlspace
Post Number: 248 Registered: 04-2004 Posted From: 69.14.112.159
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 11:50 am: | |
David Stott was a mill owner. I have a large glass negative of the mill's sprawling layout of buildings, with his name plastered all over them. I have a print somewhere. I'll try to scan it and post. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 128 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 216.223.168.132
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 1:37 pm: | |
Krawlspace, was the mill in Detroit? It must have been quite successfull considering the size of the Stott Tower. |
Dougw Member Username: Dougw
Post Number: 1119 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 136.2.1.153
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 3:43 pm: | |
Preservation Wayne's skyscraper tour includes a stop in the David Stott tower lobby, along with various other buildings: http://www.preservationwayne.o rg/tours_downtown4.php (Of course, maybe the Stott tower lobby is open to the public anyway, I haven't been there in some time.) |
Krawlspace Member Username: Krawlspace
Post Number: 250 Registered: 04-2004 Posted From: 69.14.112.159
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 4:10 pm: | |
Yes it was, although not sure where. This bit is from Time Magazine from 1931. The complete article is available for $2.50 if you're interested. Sep. 28, 1931 Since David Stott, founder of Stott Milling Co.. died in 1916 his seven children have fought privately (with fists) and publicly (with suits) over the management of the ten-million-dollar estate he left them. Detroit's Judge Homer Ferguson, before whom many of these suits have been tried, once said: " David Stott was able to pass on to his heirs his physical assets but not his business ability or his ability to get along with others." One of the heirs of whom he spoke was middle-aged Bertha A. Stott. whose tempestuous outbursts did not subside as she outgrew tempestuous youth. |
Itsjeff
Member Username: Itsjeff
Post Number: 5856 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 208.27.111.125
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 5:17 pm: | |
As evidenced by his great-great grand daughter, Brenda Scott. |
Krawlspace Member Username: Krawlspace
Post Number: 252 Registered: 04-2004 Posted From: 69.14.112.159
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 5:26 pm: | |
Quick wit Jeff strikes again! |
Lmichigan Member Username: Lmichigan
Post Number: 3638 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 67.172.95.197
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 5:55 pm: | |
Except that the man's name was Stott... |
Kathleen Member Username: Kathleen
Post Number: 1312 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 140.244.107.151
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 5:56 pm: | |
From the 1908 Book of Detroiters: STOTT, David, president Morehead Mfg. Co., Detroit Milling Co., secretary and treasurer Detroit Barrel Co. Office: Grand River and Warren Av. Residence: 135 Commonwealth Av. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 131 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 152.163.100.8
| Posted on Thursday, May 04, 2006 - 9:40 pm: | |
Thanks Kathleen, just found that: http://www.usgennet.org/usa/mi /county/tuscola/det/detsto-sul .htm For such an important guy you would think there would be more information ... |
Dougw Member Username: Dougw
Post Number: 1121 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 69.220.224.184
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 12:57 am: | |
|
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 135 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 152.163.100.8
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 1:04 am: | |
Dougw kicks ass !!! |
Dougw Member Username: Dougw
Post Number: 1122 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 69.220.224.184
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 1:07 am: | |
cool. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 137 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 152.163.100.8
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 1:07 am: | |
It is such a beautiful building. |
Viziondetroit Member Username: Viziondetroit
Post Number: 441 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 68.42.176.190
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 1:41 am: | |
|
Erikd Member Username: Erikd
Post Number: 611 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 69.242.214.106
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 2:52 am: | |
What's up with all of the skyscrapers named after guys named "David"? David Broderick Tower, David Whitney Building, David Stott Tower... Every other Detroit skyscraper has no first name. What is so special about guys named David? I want equal rights for all first names, and I have a few suggestions... The Brian Guardian Building The Jeff Book Tower The Peter Fisher Building The Amanda Buhl Building The Gary Penobscot Building The Susan Comerica Tower and, of course, The Erik Renaissance Center I like the sound of these new names, especially the last one... |
Lmichigan Member Username: Lmichigan
Post Number: 3644 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 67.172.95.197
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 2:56 am: | |
Coincidence. That, and most other Detroit skyscrapers aren't named after individuals. |
623kraw
Member Username: 623kraw
Post Number: 898 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 68.41.224.200
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 5:58 am: | |
I remember when WABX studios were at or near the top of the Stott and tours were provided (circa late '60's, not to mention the free concerts at Tartar Field). |
Bobj Member Username: Bobj
Post Number: 694 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 68.40.89.238
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 9:13 am: | |
How about Bobmerica Park?? Going with the first name theme from Erikd. |
Detroitduo Member Username: Detroitduo
Post Number: 636 Registered: 06-2005 Posted From: 194.138.39.56
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 9:22 am: | |
No, it should be DavidMerica Park, considering it's in the "David" neighborhood, obviously. (David Whitney, David Broderic, David Opera House, David Methodist Church...) |
Mauser765 Member Username: Mauser765
Post Number: 780 Registered: 01-2004 Posted From: 4.229.54.10
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 9:26 am: | |
"What's up with all of the skyscrapers named after guys named "David"?" They call them the "Three Davids" - even though Broderick was actually the Eaton Tower. Doesnt (didnt) the Stott have a Parducci lobby, like Lee Plaza and Broderick ? |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 139 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 216.223.168.132
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 9:31 am: | |
And Masonic Temple. |
Llyn
Member Username: Llyn
Post Number: 1524 Registered: 06-2004 Posted From: 68.61.197.206
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 9:53 am: | |
You've all forgotten the Llyn Shorecrest Motel... |
Gravitymachine Member Username: Gravitymachine
Post Number: 1040 Registered: 05-2005 Posted From: 198.208.159.20
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 9:55 am: | |
hotel ed "eddy" stone |
Mauser765 Member Username: Mauser765
Post Number: 782 Registered: 01-2004 Posted From: 4.229.24.60
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 10:43 am: | |
Parducci did more than a lobby at Masonic.. |
Bobj Member Username: Bobj
Post Number: 695 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 68.40.89.238
| Posted on Friday, May 05, 2006 - 10:43 am: | |
OK, Lee Plaza is an easy one, named after Lee Marvin |
Mikem Member Username: Mikem
Post Number: 2485 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 68.43.15.105
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 1:33 am: | |
To expand on what Kathleen posted earlier; from Clarence Burton's History of Detroit:
quote: DAVID STOTT. There is something thoroughly consistent in presenting the life history of David Stott in connection with the records of Detroit, inasmuch as he contributed in large measure to the business development and progress of the city and to many interests which were vital forces in Detroit’s upbuilding and development. He was a man of marked force of character and of splendid ability and he so exercised his powers as to produce substantial and beneficial results for the community in which he lived, while at the same time advancing his individual fortunes. The story of his life should be of stimulating and inspirational interest to all who read it. Mr. Stott was a native of England, born on the 9th of July, 1853, and was one of a family of three children. On attaining the usual age he entered the public schools, passing through consecutive grades as he mastered the various branches of learning until he became a high school pupil. He dated his residence in Detroit from the age of thirteen years, at which time the family home was established in this city. In early manhood he turned his attention to the dairy business, in which he continued active until he embarked in the milling business and from that time was associated with the manufacture of flour until his death, on June 4, 1916. Gradually his activities in that field broadened in scope and importance and eventually he became president of the David Stott Flour Mills, Incorporated, president of the Morehead Manufacturing Company, president of the Stott Realty Company, and secretary and treasurer of the Detroit Barrel Company. He also served for a number of years until his death as a director of the Peninsular State Bank. Mr. Stott was married twice. He was first married to Miss Julia Albro, who passed away in 1911. On February 24, 1914, he was married to Miss Helene Austin, a daughter of Thomas H. and Anne (Neville) Austin. The family of Mr. Stott numbered seven children, all born to the first marriage. He belonged to the Catholic church, of which his family are still communicants and at all times he was a generous supporter of the church and its work. He also belonged to the Knights of Columbus and along strictly social lines was connected with the Detroit Athletic Club, the Detroit Boat Club and the Country Club, of which Mrs. Stott is also a member. His political endorsement was given to the republican party and at all times he kept well informed concerning the vital questions and issues of the day, but political preferment had no attraction for him. He found his satisfaction and interest in the upbuilding of his business and his close application and thoroughness constituted the important element which proved the foundation of his prosperity.
|
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 160 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 152.163.100.8
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 2:08 am: | |
Completely fascinating. Thanks Mikem. |
Viziondetroit Member Username: Viziondetroit
Post Number: 445 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 68.42.176.190
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 2:26 am: | |
This has to be one of the most intelligent forums around.. It seems like I am getting a degree from Detroit Yes Normal College in Urban Studies with a concentration in Detroit |
Neilr Member Username: Neilr
Post Number: 244 Registered: 06-2005 Posted From: 69.242.218.76
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 10:16 am: | |
My 1906 edition of Detroit's Blue Book lists his home address as 135 Commonwealth. However, the street address numbers all changed in 1920 so 135 would not be the current number. Perhaps a Woodbridge forumer would have that information. |
Mhc Member Username: Mhc
Post Number: 2 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 74.32.22.170
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 10:43 am: | |
623krawl mentioned WABX... The DJs always used to say "High atop the David Stott bldg.." (Get it, "high"..?) |
Mikem Member Username: Mikem
Post Number: 2487 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 68.43.15.105
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 10:52 am: | |
135 Commonwealth would be in the 4200 block, between Curtis and Calumet. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 164 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 152.163.100.8
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 10:54 am: | |
Is this still a nice area? |
Mikem Member Username: Mikem
Post Number: 2488 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 68.43.15.105
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 11:10 am: | |
Beats me. I misspoke earlier; it's between Willis and Calumet. Somewhere west of the Lodge and south of I-94. Could be in the area of nice homes west of the Jeffries project. |
Dougw Member Username: Dougw
Post Number: 1125 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 69.220.224.184
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 6:29 pm: | |
That's in the Woodbridge neighborhood, so yes, it's a nice area... http://www.urbanplanet.org/for ums/lofiversion/index.php/t123 13.html |
Naturalsister Member Username: Naturalsister
Post Number: 610 Registered: 11-2004 Posted From: 69.213.80.165
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 6:53 pm: | |
Great photos, I have always wondered about Stott and Broderick. I'd buy a condo there in a minute (income not withstanding). The views, the views. later - naturalsister |
Douglasm Member Username: Douglasm
Post Number: 543 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 66.189.188.28
| Posted on Saturday, May 06, 2006 - 10:23 pm: | |
Marshall.... ......neither of us are old enough to remember that, are we? Great view from the old WABX offices...... |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 170 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 64.12.116.204
| Posted on Sunday, May 07, 2006 - 12:04 pm: | |
A lot of interesting architectural styles there in Woodbridge ... Thanks for the pics Dougw. |
Aiw
Member Username: Aiw
Post Number: 5529 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 69.156.95.197
| Posted on Sunday, May 07, 2006 - 12:50 pm: | |
The lobby of the Stott is way too small to create a "public space". It is however a typical 20's era lobby, lots of brass and a great post office box. Here are a few photos of the lobby.
|
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 171 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 64.12.116.204
| Posted on Sunday, May 07, 2006 - 1:17 pm: | |
Wow! Thanks Andrew. |
Apbest Member Username: Apbest
Post Number: 20 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 68.40.65.66
| Posted on Sunday, May 07, 2006 - 4:06 pm: | |
I agree that it should be residential. Once some of the dinosaur buildings get converted, I think using Stott as residential would a) bring more people downtown b)restore the building c)help prevent new office buildings from "flooding the market", maybe get the occupancy rating of other downtown buildings up |
Trufan Member Username: Trufan
Post Number: 6 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 138.28.159.20
| Posted on Sunday, May 07, 2006 - 5:21 pm: | |
It makes great office space for a small business. Great views, and nice windows. Bathrooms are small and old, but ok. It would make great residential, because of the small floors, easily fit 2 really nice sized apartments with 3 sides of windows. Maybe could fit four 1 bedroom apartments per floor too. Its not in horrible shape, elevator problems sometimes, but besides that its nice. Only problem with electricy I had while i was there was the blackout a couple years ago, but 6 states exerienced that too. |
Lmichigan Member Username: Lmichigan
Post Number: 3666 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 24.11.189.87
| Posted on Sunday, May 07, 2006 - 8:33 pm: | |
There is no reason why the top can't be residential and the bottom remain office space for small tenants, as it certainly isn't cutting it as an office building. Turning the top into a residential use would also help, as you said, push office occupancy up, downtown. Only Class A office space is being built in downtown, now. |
Trufan Member Username: Trufan
Post Number: 8 Registered: 04-2006 Posted From: 138.28.212.237
| Posted on Sunday, May 07, 2006 - 10:44 pm: | |
not only is it just class A office space that is being built, thats the only office space thats desireable hense a beautiful building with great views like the david stott building is not popular. I wonder with the small floor plans if it could ever be turned into class A offices, if not i'm all for some delux apartments in the sky. |
Apbest Member Username: Apbest
Post Number: 23 Registered: 03-2006 Posted From: 68.40.65.66
| Posted on Sunday, May 07, 2006 - 11:10 pm: | |
I think the later is the only practical design...but idk if that will happen |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 178 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 64.12.116.204
| Posted on Sunday, May 07, 2006 - 11:51 pm: | |
David Stott Building mentioned in Warren Commission report on JFK assassination: http://www.jfk-assassination.d e/warren/wch/vol14/page412.php |
Lmichigan Member Username: Lmichigan
Post Number: 3669 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 24.11.189.87
| Posted on Monday, May 08, 2006 - 1:33 am: | |
Trufan, I think you could turn the small floor plates into Class A space, but it's very rare to find enough small tenants willing to pay that much for Class A space in that type of building. It would be an EXTREMELY niche market for office space. The style for large tenants, today, is massive floor plates to get as many of their workers (or workers in a particular department) on one floor as possible. It has a lot to do with efficiency. It would be nearly impossible, in even a better office market, to turn the Stott into Class A space, and have it be feasible. And, the Stott has one of the smallest (if not the smallest) footprint of a major skyscraper in Detroit. The owner would be much better off converting the top for residential use. |
The_aram Member Username: The_aram
Post Number: 4856 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 68.41.124.8
| Posted on Monday, May 08, 2006 - 1:44 am: | |
Isn't there a law library somewhere in the building? I seem to remember hearing something about one in there on the upper floors. |
Sumotect Member Username: Sumotect
Post Number: 188 Registered: 08-2004 Posted From: 64.243.32.9
| Posted on Monday, May 08, 2006 - 10:31 am: | |
The design of the building exterior owes a great deal to Eliel (Ero's Dad) Sarranien's influential second place entry in the famous Chicago Tribune architecture competition from the twenties. sorry about the small image |
Dougw Member Username: Dougw
Post Number: 1127 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 136.2.1.103
| Posted on Monday, May 08, 2006 - 12:25 pm: | |
I dug up this larger version of Eliel Saarinen's Chicago Tribune Tower entry... Pretty amazing for 1922. It looks like it may have influenced the Fisher building even more than the Stott tower. It's a shame Eliel never got to design a skyscraper for Detroit, since he lived around here for so long. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 1487 Registered: 02-2005 Posted From: 69.221.33.13
| Posted on Monday, May 08, 2006 - 10:53 pm: | |
Indeed. My "Architecture in Michigan" book also includes this Saarinen design, which the Stott is clearly derived from. The more I think on it, the wierder it seems that the Stott is so underused. It is such a classy place, with potential...look at the location. One block from Michigan avenue, one block from Woodward, right there at the end of Gratiot, another one of the spoke roads. It is literally around the corner from Compuware HQ, One Kennedy Square, the rest of the financial district. Likewise, it is a block from whatever will rest on the Hudson's block, and near what will be a four star hotel at Washington and Michigan. These two developments will probably bring fresh investment in and marketing of the Stott Tower. It would be a sin if this signature building is forgotten. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 184 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 64.12.116.204
| Posted on Monday, May 08, 2006 - 10:54 pm: | |
Dougw, I agree. It's kind of a hybrid between Fisher and David Stott. Thanks for the pics Sumotect & Dougw. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 185 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 64.12.116.204
| Posted on Monday, May 08, 2006 - 11:05 pm: | |
I agree, Mackinaw. It's rare, if ever, that the building is mentioned (especially considering its size and location defined in your above post). The office space in the building is considered Class C. As you stated earlier, with the right management (ala Guardian), this building could once again become a premier address. AIW's photos show some of the great details the Stott Tower has to offer. (Message edited by hysteria on May 08, 2006) |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 1488 Registered: 02-2005 Posted From: 69.221.33.13
| Posted on Monday, May 08, 2006 - 11:36 pm: | |
I'm assuming it will take modern, i.e. technological, amenities to be integrated in order to become class A? I'm sure it has some beautiful space, it just needs the recipe that the Dime, Guardian, and Penobscot have had in their rebirth. Eventually the market will have to spur this on. Again: look at the location! |
Mikem Member Username: Mikem
Post Number: 2496 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 68.43.15.105
| Posted on Tuesday, May 09, 2006 - 12:30 am: | |
Maybe not its heyday, but here are the Stott Building occupants in 1940... (four columns in the directory, split into two for posting) (continued) I wonder if the place still smells like perm solution? Or lawyers? |
Erikd Member Username: Erikd
Post Number: 615 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 69.242.214.106
| Posted on Tuesday, May 09, 2006 - 2:34 am: | |
quote:The more I think on it, the wierder it seems that the Stott is so underused. It is such a classy place, with potential...
The reasons for the low occupancy and class C rating are due to the layout and lack of amenities. The building has never had a major upgrade, so it lacks many of the features that are expected by today's office tenants. The old elevators, lack of AC, lack of attached parking, small floor plates, old eletrical and plumbing systems, etc are a deal breaker for most companies looking for office space. Even with a major renovation, it would be hard to draw office tenants due to the small size of the floors. While the small floor sizes will make it hard for the Stott to draw office tenants, they are perfect for residential development. I wouldn't be surprised to see this building converted to residential in the (somewhat) near future. |
Swingline Member Username: Swingline
Post Number: 483 Registered: 11-2003 Posted From: 172.162.166.15
| Posted on Tuesday, May 09, 2006 - 1:06 pm: | |
Mikem, very cool directory. No occupancy rate problems in 1940. Stott building will never become a Class A office building. As many have said, the floor plate issues preclude any interest from Class A tenants. It's a great building though. I hope that it can hold on until the residential market comes around. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 189 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 152.163.100.8
| Posted on Tuesday, May 09, 2006 - 6:38 pm: | |
Great list of tenants, Mikem. Lots of beauty shops! It's interesting to see that Detroit Savings Bank (Comerica Bank) had offices on the first seven floors of the tower. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 1490 Registered: 02-2005 Posted From: 68.248.10.150
| Posted on Tuesday, May 09, 2006 - 7:33 pm: | |
Based on how many different tenants there were per floor back in the day, I have to object to those who say this cannot be converted to class A space based on the floor sizes. Especially for the lower 15 stories, the footprint is large enough for law firms and the like, I would have to think. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 191 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 152.163.100.8
| Posted on Tuesday, May 09, 2006 - 11:24 pm: | |
It would be nice to see the space converted to Class A, certainly. Mackinaw, what are your thoughts on keeping floors 1-15 commercial/retail and marketing the higher floors as residential? |
Mikem Member Username: Mikem
Post Number: 2497 Registered: 10-2003 Posted From: 208.54.94.33
| Posted on Wednesday, May 10, 2006 - 1:36 am: | |
Hysteria, thanks but you're mis-reading the directory. It's a portion of a street directory. Notice the left column of the first image is a list of occupants of the Capitol Park Building, then it says "street continued," meaning it has reverted back to street addresses (Griswold in this case) until it reaches another multiple-occupant building such as the Stott. See the right column of the fifth image, where it says "Detroit Savings Bank Building"? The 1212 next to it means it's at 1212 Griswold. The Stott listings ended with "3527 Kinwell Oil Company", then it reverts back to street addresses until it reaches another building. |
Hysteria Member Username: Hysteria
Post Number: 193 Registered: 02-2006 Posted From: 152.163.100.8
| Posted on Wednesday, May 10, 2006 - 8:26 am: | |
Yep. It's very clear to me now. Thanks, Mikem. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 1492 Registered: 02-2005 Posted From: 68.248.10.150
| Posted on Wednesday, May 10, 2006 - 9:16 am: | |
Mixed use makes plenty of sense to me. I'm sure it would make sense to any potential investor who purchases the building, because residential demand is clearly leading the way downtown. The sight-lines from the top floors of the Stott have got to be awesome. |