Newlab at Michigan Central (Detroit, Michigan)

 office building, interesting place

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The four story building was designed by Albert Kahn for the US Postal Service. It served as Detroit's Main Post Office for over thirty years. The Post Office was connected to the railway station by an underground tunnel, allowing easy access in an era when most mail traveled by train.

The Postal Service vacated the building with the opening of the new George Young building on Fort Street West in 1961. Shortly thereafter the Detroit Public Schools occupied the property as a book and supply depository. A fire in 1987 caused so much damage that the building was never repaired. Some of the books and other materials still remain in the building.

In 1994, the property was purchased by Ambassador Bridge owner Matty Maroun. A demolition permit was issued in 2001, but the building was not demolished as the cost to do so is significant. The property was purchased by Ford Motor Co. in 2019 as part of the redevelopment of the Michigan Central Station. It is now home to hundreds of startups.

www.newlab.com/blogs/newlab-announces-launch-of-new-fou...
www.boingboing.net/2008/01/19/rotting-textbook-war.html