With all the renovations happening in Detroit lately, it was only a matter of time before I created before/after images of a Detroit renovated building. All images here are of the Metropolitan Building located on John R in downtown Detroit. The building re-opened in early 2019 as a boutique hotel named Element Detroit by Marriott, as well as the Monarch Club bar on the roof of the building. You can learn more about the history of the building here.


The before images were captured in 2014. The first visit was with my photography friend Bryan Levy, and the second with permission, thanks to the building owner at the time. The after images were captured during two different trips to the hotel. Thanks to the hotel manager, I was given permission to shoot the images of the lobby and the Monarch Club.


To view other images I've taken of the Metropolitan Building interior, you can see both before and after images. Please share with anyone who is interested in Detroit!

Before and after renovation of a room showing transformation from graffiti-covered decay to elegant lounge at the Element Hotel in Detroit.
Before and after photos showing abandoned room transformed into sophisticated lounge with leather furniture at the Element Hotel in Detroit.
Renovation comparison showing dilapidated stairwell transformed into luxurious seating area with modern furniture Element Hotel in Detroit.
Lobby renovation showing dramatic transformation from debris-filled space to elegant marble entrance at the Element Hotel in Detroit.
Before and after of historic lobby hallway restoration from ruins to polished architectural grandeur at the Element Hotel in Detroit.
Historic lobby entrance restoration showcasing preserved decorative tilework and architectural elements at the Element Hotel in Detroit.
Before and after of elevator lobby showing transformation from deteriorated state to restored at the Element Hotel in Detroit.
Before and after renovation photos showing transformation of the historic Metropolitan building's main lobby area in Detroit.
Historic building entrance renovation showcasing the staircase from deteriorated to renovated condition at the Element Hotel in Detroit.
Glass entrance renovation showing transformation from abandoned space to modern corridor with clean lines at the Monarch Club in Detroit.
Bar area renovation showing conversion from dilapidated space to contemporary bar at the Monarch Club inside the Element Hotel in Detroit.
Exterior views of ornate Gothic Revival architecture featuring decorative stonework and arched windows at the Element Hotel in Detroit.
Roof balcony renovation showing transformation from deteriorated space to clean modern outdoor seating area at the Element Hotel in Detroit.