Historic Detroit machine shop transformed into stylish, unique $1.49M home
- Built in 1922, the home retains key architectural elements of its industrial past.
- The open-concept interior features exposed brick walls, high ceilings and exposed mechanical piping.
At first glance, a historic commercial building in Detroit’s Woodbridge neighborhood still reflects its industrial roots. However, the inside has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind modern residence and is now on the market for $1.49 million.
Built in 1922, the 4,350-square-foot structure once housed a machine shop that manufactured crankshafts. Despite its transformation, it retains key architectural elements of its past, including the distinctive barrel-shaped roof.
Located at 5137 Trumbull St., across from a Wayne State University’s athletic field, the property was purchased for $160,000 in 2014 and underwent a full renovation in 2016.
“The owners worked with a commercial designer and architect to preserve the building’s historic integrity while converting it into a modern home,” said Marisa Thomas of DOBI Real Estate in Birmingham.
The open-concept interior with exposed brick walls, high ceilings and exposed mechanical piping, includes two bedrooms with custom built-in cabinetries and a beverage refrigerator, three bathrooms featuring hand-painted tiles and custom shower doors, a chef’s kitchen equipped with a gas range, built-in refrigerator, microwave, Miele coffee maker, pantry, and a laundry room.
Radiant heating warms the polished concrete floors, where heat extends to the front steps and walkway to the public sidewalk, Thomas said.
Automatic blinds, expansive insulated double-pane steel windows that provide natural light, and doors that maintain its industrial aesthetic are included. The roof and gutters were replaced in 2016.
The owners purchased and demolished a neighboring house and repurposed its brick to construct a surrounding wall enclosure, according to Thomas. Within the private courtyard, there’s a grassy side yard, a covered patio, a bricked-in fireplace, and parking for several vehicles.
The three-car attached garage has two entrances, one accessible from the alley and another through a private gated driveway.
A small basement is also located at the rear of the residence.
The Woodbridge Historic District was recognized by the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. The neighborhood was developed on land once owned by former Gov. William Woodbridge (1840-1841).
“This home is full of unique details,” Thomas said. “It’s fun to share them with potential buyers.”
(This story was updated to add new information.)
Brendel Hightower writes about real estate and other topics for the Detroit Free Press. Contact her at bhightower@freepress.com. Support local journalism: Subscribe to the Detroit Free Press.