City Knits in Guardian Building

City Knits has opened a second mini-location in the lobby of the Guardian Building, one of the finest art deco gems in the nation.

The Guardian Building was designed by Wirt C. Rowland (of Smith, Hinchman and Grylls and
features the ceramic artistry of Pewabic Pottery’s Mary Chase Perry Stratton. Originally commissioned to be the headquarters of the Union Trust Bank, the building was completed in 1928 and until the late 90’s was the home of Michigan Consolidated Gas. It was listed as a National Historic Landmark in 1989. Acquired recently by the Sterling Group the Guardian has been lovingly restored to its original grandeur, with the addition of modern amenities to make it one of downtown’s premier office locations. According to Michigan’s History, Arts and Library
website http://www.michigan.gov/hal/0,1607,7-160-15481_19267_20424-54589--,00.html.

The Guardian Building is part of the progression of the American skyscraper that began with Cass Gilbert’s Woolworth Building in New York and is one of the most exuberant Art Deco skyscrapers built in America. Brilliantly colored Arts and Crafts tiles and orange brick, formulated especially for this building, cover the thirty-six-story steel-frame structure. From its location on an entire block in the financial district, the warm and colorful bank building exudes a friendly cordiality.

The building is profusely ornamented inside and out with geometric designs executed in brilliantly colored terra cotta and glazed tile, and gold-stained glass and metal. Because of its plan, its lofty banking room with nave and side aisles, and its sumptuous decoration, the bank and office building appropriately was termed a “cathedral of finance.”

Guardian’s enlightened management was eager to have our colors and textures enhancing their fabulous lobby and made me an offer I couldn’t refuse. Our space is only 108 square feet, but it’s packed to the ceiling with City Knit’s trademark feast of color and fiber choices. . City Knits is honored to be the newest retail tenant in the breathtaking Guardian Building. Although the shoplette has only about 1/20th of the range of the main shop, we still have great choices for felting, socks, baby projects, scarves and classic sweater yarn, and a full range of Addi Turbo needles. We guarantee delivery of any merchandise from the main shop in no more than 24 hours and often the same day.

Get location and address information here.

To see current Guardian Building class offerings, click here.