DETROIT – Two leading Detroit-based construction management firms, The Christman Company and L.S. Brinker, a Brinker company, have been recognized by Governor Gretchen Whitmer for their participation in the rehabilitation of two iconic buildings – Ford Motor Company’s Michigan Central Station and Bedrock’s Book Tower – during a ceremony at the Michigan State Capitol Thursday.
The annual Governor’s Awards for Historic Preservation were awarded to seven project teams – owners along with their construction and architectural partners – for preserving Michigan’s important historic and cultural resources. The State Historic Preservation Office and State Historic Preservation Review Board identify projects that exemplify the deep impact preservation can have on Michigan communities.
The Christman and L. S. Brinker partnership for construction management services on the two projects provided the unique combination of expertise in historic preservation, large-scale construction projects, and community outreach – specifically focused on workforce development for City of Detroit residents.
“We are incredibly honored to receive the Governor’s Awards for the rehabilitation of Michigan Central Station and Book Tower,” said Joe Luther, senior vice president and general manager, The Christman Company. “Partnering with Ford Motor Company and Bedrock has been a privilege. Their visionary leadership and commitment to Detroit’s heritage and community redevelopment is unmatched and inspires us to continue shaping the future with the same integrity and commitment that has defined Christman’s work for more than 130 years.”
“We are inspired every day by working with clients whose vision and impact reach far beyond the intricacies of the buildings themselves,” added Larry Brinker, Jr., chief executive officer, Brinker. “In the last decade, Bedrock has been especially integral in the revitalization of Detroit, while Ford Motor Company has been a pillar of our community for more than a century. These projects alone brought together 3,100+ men and women from construction trades to create destination spaces for people to experience for years to come. Brinker is honored to be recognized for our part.”
Christman’s Historic Preservation Group was deeply involved in both projects, lending their expertise in everything from Guastavino tile, ornamental plaster, and stained-glass domes to scaffolding that doesn’t damage a building’s delicate historic fabric.
“At Christman, we believe that preserving the architectural heritage of our communities is not just about maintaining structures but about honoring the stories and legacies they represent,” said Austin Giesey, leader of Christman’s historic preservation group in Michigan. “It’s an honor to be part of Michigan Central Station’s and Book Tower’s stories which will continue to inspire future generations.”
Rehabilitation of Michigan Central Station Detroit, Wayne County
Awardees: Ford Motor Company – Michigan Central; Quinn Evans; and Christman-Brinker Corktown Transformation Joint Venture
For much of the 20th century, millions of passengers from faraway places were welcomed to Michigan beneath the columns and archways of Michigan Central Station. But as modes of travel changed, the station languished. When the last train left in 1988, the building quickly spiraled into disrepair, left open to the elements and damaged by scrappers and vandals. The visionary leadership of Ford Motor Company saved the landmark and gave it new life. Ford acquired the property in 2018 to become the mixed-use centerpiece of a larger, 30-acre innovation and mobility hub. After six years of effort in a project that followed preservation best practices from start to finish, the station reopened in 2024. At the conclusion of the project, the Grand Hall, Ticket Lobby, Concourse, and other public spaces were thought to look as good as the day the building first opened, if not better. It has become a catalyst for new development and source of newfound civic pride.
Rehabilitation of the Book Tower Detroit, Wayne County
Awardees: Bedrock; ODA; Kraemer Design Group; and Brinker-Christman Joint Venture
During the height of the Roaring ‘20s, the Book Tower rose to briefly become the tallest building on Detroit’s skyline. For decades, it was a prestigious address for commercial enterprise. When the final tenant moved out in 2009, it became one of the tallest abandoned skyscrapers on the continent. Bedrock acquired the Book in 2015 and assembled a team of partners to rehabilitate the structure. Decorative exterior statues, masonry, and over 2,400 windows were cleaned, repaired or replaced. On the interior, the most challenging rehabilitation work involved reconstructing an ornate original glass and steel atrium dome. After eight years of work, the Book reopened to new residents and guests. The mixed-use redevelopment converted the 36-story tower and adjacent Book Building into a combination of apartments and hotel rooms, and includes office, retail, and event space. The project has brought new residents and round-the-clock activity to a once desolate corner. This signature building on the Detroit skyline is vibrant once again.
The Christman Company moved its Detroit office into Book Tower earlier this year.