History

6001 Cass is an iconic Albert Kahn building originally designed as Cadillac’s 1920 flagship showroom. In the 1970s it was repurposed as the Wayne State University Criminal Justice Building. The Platform acquired the property in 2018 and converted the historic building to meet the growing demand for office space in New Center.

Restoration

6001 Cass required extensive renovation to modernize its systems and restore many of its architectural features that had been damaged over the years. To improve energy efficiency, all of the glass was replaced with high-performance, historically-sensitive replacement windows. Additionally, a new mechanical system featuring Variable Refrigerant Flow technology was installed to reduce energy use by 40%. On the facade, missing balusters were reconstructed to match existing. Inside, the original vaulted plaster ceiling was uncovered and carefully patched and woodwork and tile was repaired to return the majestic showroom space to its original grandeur.

Design

In honor of the building's original architecture, a new vertical blade sign replicates the historic Cadillac LaSalle sign that hung in the same location more than 75 years ago. The 44-foot-tall sign spans four stories and is 21 feet wide. In another nod to the building's 100-year legacy and automotive roots, a timeline of significant Detroit events and milestones lines the building's first floor corridor.