Thursday, January 21, 2010

You Work Where?

The building I work in was an automotive factory in the early 1920's, located in Detroit.  It has gone through several changes over the years and is now used as a storage warehouse.  Many people would consider where I work a dump.  No joke, and I would have to agree with them to a certain point.  First off, the part of the building I work in is clean and organized, compared to the rest of the plant.  But I see it for what it is.  Even though the building has been modernized, you can still see it's history in hiding spots.  I wanted to share some of my favorite details.

Tile flooring

We only have a cleaning staff of 2 in the entire building, so ignore any dirt you see.  I am not a huge fan of the color, but the pattern is da bomb!!  The tiles are an odd size, 8"x3.5".

Painted brick

It is throughout the building and mostly white.  I just love the rough edges of the brick.

Industrial Elevator

I have to admit, I am very afraid to operating this elevator and usually have someone else help me.  But it is so cool to look at!  The doors open from the middle and a lever is used to move it from floor to floor, once inside.  I usually just take the stairs.

Old windows

About 10 years ago, the building had siding put over the entire structure.  Even though these windows are awesome to look at and I would love to have some sun light, I have been told stories of snow leaking through them years ago.  Yikes!  Thank god that is not the case now.  I will just admire them.

Old fire alarm.

It has been painted over, as you can sees and does not work anymore.  The system was updated after 9-11.

Old door handle

This is the door to our storage closet.  The door doesn't fully close or lock.  But this is something I would love on my doors!

They just don't make 'em like they use to! 
Sorry for the lack of posts lately. I haven't been feeling so hot...stupid sinuses!

12 comments:

Scientific Housewife said...

I love old styles of architecture and building supplies, it gives the place a look of it's own and retains historic integrity. Great pictures!

Kristina Strain said...

Wow, love the tile! Though the color isn't my cup of tea, either, it's a very 1920s color-- I see it in Craftsman style homes a lot. How cool to work in a building with so much character!

Kristina
Sweetfern Handmade

Alli (One Pearl Button) said...

Very cool! I love the painted brick walls. The doorknob is fabulous, too.

Amanda @ Little House on the Corner said...

Cool! Love all the character - makes for a more relaxing work environment.

Sara @ Russet Street Reno said...

Sigh. So many people think old=dumpy. It's so sad. I refuse to replace the windows in our house like everyone keeps telling me to. They've lasted for 70 years, they will last for 70 more! And they look so much better than vinyl. Anyhow, I agree that they just don't make anything like they used to!

elizabeth said...

love your building - i would love to have my camera there -
hope your feeling better -
and by the way -
you don't need to clean my house -
you can just come with us!!
happy sunday

micah said...

Love the painted bricks! Looks like a great place to spend your days!

Kim at Yellow Brick Home said...

ohh, that elevator is awesome!

I used to be an assistant to a photography studio in an old building in Cincinnati. My biggest challenge was hauling a days worth of equipment up and down an old elevator. I actually had to catch the pulley system in a lock of some sort to make it stop on the second floor. It makes no sense as I type it, but I got quite the hang of it after a while!

Buildings like that are so full of charm. I don't see a dump - I see it like you do. They just don't make 'em the way they used to.

Cafe Fashionista said...

Oh, I love buildings so full of history - this one is absolutely magical. The painted brick is what truly gets me - I can never resist that aesthetic!! :)

Meg said...

I really adore old architecture. Old buildings and houses have so much more character and inspiring little details. And isn't it funny how your surroundings can affect your work? I interned for a magazine in Atlanta and the building was adorable. Beautiful chandeliers, chic desks, pink walls, gorgeous art and it always made me feel inspired. Definitely more encouraging than a gray cubicle!

Thanks for sharing! I love that building!

Anonymous said...

Great old building! I love painted brick and I think old houses and buildings have tons of charm.

-FringeGirl

Kelly@TearingUpHouses said...

I love old buildings. Cool shots!

Kelly