The drop ceiling inside the First National Building lobby was taken out in 2013, revealing the original ceiling. Previous efforts to remove the ornate ceiling from sight had extensively damaged it, but rather than cover it up again, the ceiling was roughly patched and painted white. Also formerly hidden from view, the structural steel framework of the building was exposed as well.
Photo by Helmut Ziewers (www.ziewersphotography.com) of HistoricDetroit.org
The First National Building as seen in Apr. 2023
Photo by Helmut Ziewers (www.ziewersphotography.com) of HistoricDetroit.org
Exterior shot during Holiday Season
Photo by Helmut Ziewers (www.ziewersphotography.com) of HistoricDetroit.org
Tearing away First National's drywall ceiling in 2013 not only revealed the old plaster work, it also raised the ceiling height considerably.
Photo by Helmut Ziewers (www.ziewersphotography.com) of HistoricDetroit.org
This image shows the entire Z-shaped structure of the First National Building with the Vinton Building in the front.
Photo by Helmut Ziewers (www.ziewersphotography.com) of HistoricDetroit.org
Exterior shot from parking structure during Holiday Season
Photo by Helmut Ziewers (www.ziewersphotography.com) of HistoricDetroit.org
The First National Building during winter season
Photo by Helmut Ziewers (www.ziewersphotography.com) of HistoricDetroit.org
A view at the lobby from a different angle
Photo by Helmut Ziewers (www.ziewersphotography.com) of HistoricDetroit.org