The Firm that Built Detroit: Smith, Hinchman & Grylls

About this event

The long and fascinating history of Smith, Hinchman & Grylls, now known as SmithGroup, reaches all the way back to mid-19th-century Sandusky, Ohio. In metro Detroit, the firm’s roster of significant surviving buildings is eclipsed only by that of Albert Kahn. Today, SmithGroup has offices in 21 major U.S. cities, while the Guardian Building remains its headquarters. Author, photographer and architectural historian Dale A. Carlson examines the people behind the firm and the remarkable range of its work across Michigan. From the Ford Piquette Plant and Joe Louis Arena to Yost Ice Arena in Ann Arbor and the Chrysler World Headquarters Building in Auburn Hills, SmithGroup’s work can be found in some of the region’s most recognizable places. ARCHITECTURE LECTURE SERIES Architect of Entertainment: C. Howard Crane | Oct. 10 Detroit's Palace Architect: Louis Kamper | Dec. 5 Sacred Spaces and City Landmarks: Spier & Rohns | Jan 16