A Detroit
Neighborhood:
Then and Now

A shell

Explore the site’s historic timeline below - from the original construction of each building in the early 20th century to the re-opening of this dynamic community and neighborhood in 2024.

Timeline

1900

The Henry building is built in the Federal Colonial Revival style and is the oldest building on the block. Now called the “Henry Flats,” it will offer six half-floor units.

1900

A polaroid of the Hotel Ansonia logo

The Henry building is built in the Federal Colonial Revival style and is the oldest building on the block. Now called the “Henry Flats,” it will offer six half-floor units.

1906

“The Grande” is completed. Originally an apartment building, it later operated as the “Hotel Ansonia.” “The Grande” will reopen with 16 newly updated apartments.

1915-1916

In 1915, “The Berwin,” “Bretton Hall,” and “The Atlanta” were constructed as similar “apartment hotels” intended for short-term stays. Today, with their careful preservation and restoration, the three buildings will add over 100 new residences.

A year later in 1916, “The Claridge” was built. Its restoration will add over 40 new residences to the neighborhood.

1915-1916

Polaroid of The Berwin Apartments

In 1915, “The Berwyn,” “Bretton Hall,” and “The Atlanta” were constructed as similar “apartment hotels” intended for short-term stays. Today, with their careful preservation and restoration, the three buildings will add over 100 new residences.
A year later, in 1916, "The Claridge" was built. Its restoration will add over 40 new residences to the neighborhood. A year later in 1916, “The Claridge” was built. Its restoration will add over 40 new residences to the neighborhood.

Polaroid of The Claridge Apartments

1922

Polaroid of The Claridge Apartments

The “William B. Ralston Garage,” an auto repair shop, opened for business. It was converted to a bowling alley and was repurposed again as Town Center Laundry. It will reopen as the “Ralston Commons,” a community center providing a wide range of services to tenants.

2018

For their embodiment of vibrancy, community, and their combined landmarks of authentic Detroit architecture, the block was designated as the Cass-Henry Historic District by the City of Detroit.

2018

For their embodiment of vibrancy, community, and their combined landmarks of authentic Detroit architecture, the block was designated as the Cass-Henry Historic District by the City of Detroit.

Render of The Henry Apartments

2024

Render of The Henry Apartments

Restoration and construction begins on The Henry Street Apartments development. When completed, the buildings will add 170 new residential units in Detroit.