Packard Proving Grounds

This is a site rich in Detroit’s automotive history. Established in 1927 by the Packard Motor Car Company, this unique 17-acre site hosts multiple Albert Kahn-designed buildings. After changing hands several times, the property ended up in the hands of the Ford Motor Company and was eventually gifted to the Packard Motor Car Foundation. The parcel contained the lodge building, the garage, the water tower, the Chrysler Defense building, timing tower and a 458-foot section of the original test track.

The group took on the restoration of the water tower and timing tower on their own. The buildings required professional assistance and. Spicer Group’s historic Architect was hired to complete plans for the restoration of the lodge building and testing garage. The first task was the restoration of the lodge building, which included exterior and interior restoration as well as the construction of a restroom and gift shop so the building could be open for tours.

The second task was the renovation of the testing garage into an event facility. The main garage area was transformed into a rustic yet elegant ball room. The dynometer room was transformed into a warming kitchen for caterers to use in meal preparation. The boiler rooms were renovated into restroom facilities and a bride’s room. The restrooms incorporated Detroit Pewabic tile and marble partitions as if for executives in the original headquarters building.