GH+A Moves its Detroit Studio Downtown

January 28, 2013 -

This past Friday, GH+A, an international creative retail design firm specializing in both retail development projects and store design, has moved its American office from Northville, MI to downtown Detroit's central business district. The move signals GH+A's investment in the City of Detroit and its cultural and economic resurgence. GH+A's Canadian office is located in downtown Montreal and the firm sought an American address that similarly reflects an urban, cosmopolitan vibe.

The company selected a landmark building of historical significance in Detroit?s central business district on East Jefferson Avenue. The building, located directly across the street from the General Motors world headquarters known as GM Renaissance Center, was erected in 1897 by William Metzger. It housed the first auto dealership in the U.S. initially selling electric cars, followed by the first Cadillac Motor Car Co. showroom in the early 1900's opened by Henry Leland and Metzger.

The loft-style building is characterized by a rich wood structure, brick walls, industrial-size windows and high ceilings, making it an inspiring space for a creative design company. The water tower perched atop the roof enhances the building's unique features and acts as a distinctive icon. The building's current major tenant and owner is DuMouchelle Art Galleries Co. who purchased the building in 1936 and occupies the first two floors with gallery and auction spaces.

GH+A is a powerful and versatile force in the retail design and branding universe. Its differentiator is its focus on the consumer experience and the retailer's performance as the main drivers in the success of a retail project. With offices located in Montreal, Quebec and Detroit, Michigan, they design for an international market.