Ford Motor Company Offices – Detroit
McIntosh Poris Associates renovated and restored the Ford Motor Company offices located in Detroit, Michigan.
McIntosh Poris Associates was responsible for the renovation and restoration of an existing 19thâCentury wood timber and masonry building into a modern office for Ford Motor Companyâs selfâdriving business unit. Originally planned for Buhl Sport Detroit, the building was purchased by Ford during construction to house Fordâs selfâdriving business unit and attract fresh talent as part of the companyâs commitment to enhancing Detroitâs Corktown neighborhood. McIntosh Poris Associateâs design concept was to bring back the buildingâs original form and retain as much of the historic character as possible while meeting Fordâs requirements.
The extensive renovation involved shoring up the walls and floors and refinishing the original timber beams and wood flooring. McIntosh Poris Associates installed expansive steel windows and glass floorâtoâceiling garage doors to maximize the permeation of natural light. Brick walls, high ceilings, and exposed structure invoke a simple and industrial warehouse feeling reflective of the previous use and original architecture. New elevators, stairs, and connections between previously separate spaces were critical, as Ford prioritized easy interaction among employees and teams. Open workspaces offer a flexible environment for collaboration while glass phone booths and meeting rooms allow for focused work and discussion. The design includes a groundâfloor garage that houses Fordâs selfâdriving vehicles. A significant amount of roof area was converted into a terrace for Ford employees to use on a seasonal basis.
Design: McIntosh Poris Associates
Contractor:Â Midtown Building Company
Photography: Justin Maconochie
