The Security Trust building is a seven-story bank building with a steel frame faced with limestone. The building was designed by one of the most prolific architects in American history, Albert Kahn, who is also known as the architect of Detroit. Kahn designed a number of buildings in Detroit and the University of Michigan campus.
The building was erected in 1925 and is part of the Detroit financial district, home to several other historic buildings in Detroit such as the Penobscot, Guardian, and Dime buildings. The building is designed in the Beaux Arts architectural style.
Security Trust was established in 1906, and two years later moved to the corner of Griswold and Fort Streets, just south of where this beautiful building was constructed. The front façade has columns flanking three four-story tall arches. The columns are finished with elaborately carved human and animal motifs. In 1964, the original gable atop the building was removed and a two-story flat-roofed addition was placed atop the building. The addition is clad with cast concrete panels.
The relief stone carving of human and animal motifs was done in 1925 by Corrado Parducci, who is originally from outside Pisa in Italy. These carvings are truly a sight to see. Corrado’s art can also be found on some of the more interesting buildings in Detroit such as the Guardian, Buhl, and Penobscot buildings.
The seven-story Security Trust building has recently gone through a 14-month renovation, which symbolizes the reemergence of Detroit (2). The building is now Security Trust Lofts which features 19 apartments and had its first tenant move in to this historic building in July 2013. The first floor is soon to be occupied by Anytime Fitness starting in 2014. The building is now one of 33 to be considered part of the historic Detroit Financial District.
The Security Trust Building is a beautiful building and one of rich history that has been a part of the city for more than 80 years. The building is now a sign of the rise of those wishing to live, work, and experience Detroit.