For 75 years, the Detroit Historical Museum has showcased stories of the city’s past on Woodward Avenue. Now, the museum is undertaking a major preservation and modernization project of its own: replacing the building's original steel single-pane windows with new, energy-efficient windows that will preserve its iconic mid-century modern appearance while preparing for the future.
Thanks to a grant received through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the Detroit Historical Society is in the process of replacing the 65 to 75 year-old windows located in the museum’s third floor staff office spaces, entrance areas, and main stairwell. The windows faced common issues associated with aging – deteriorating materials, broken glass, poor insulation, and limited security. Beyond discomfort for staff and visitors, the outdated windows posed risks to the museum’s artifacts and contributed to inefficient energy use throughout the building.
When the project is complete this summer, the new aluminum-framed, double-pane windows will improve energy efficiency, strengthen building security, and provide better environmental protection for the museum’s collections. Staff offices will also gain operable windows for the first time, improving comfort and ventilation throughout the workspace.