Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan
About Ford House, Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan
Introduction
The Ford House, located in Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan, is a profoundly significant site steeped in rich American history. The site is not just symbolic because of the Ford family’s immense societal impact, but it also possesses an indelible architectural charm that keeps visitors from around the world captivated. The Ford House, originally the home of Edsel and Eleanor Ford, is situated on 87 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds. In this article, we delve into a brief history of the house, its architectural significance, and insights into its main attractions.
Historical Background
The Ford House, also known as the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House, was built in 1929. This estate was a family home to the son of Henry Ford, the founder of Ford Motor Company, Edsel Ford and his wife Eleanor. Edsel Ford was significantly more than just the president of Ford Motor Company; he was an ardent patron of the arts, and poured his aesthetic sense into the creation of this architectural marvel.
The house’s design, a collaboration between renowned architect Albert Kahn and landscape architect Jens Jensen, is a shining beacon of Cotswold-style architecture. Drawing inspiration from the lovely, rural cottages of the Cotswold region in England, the house exhibits several distinct features such as the locally quarried ledge rock exterior, a traditionally-styled slate roof, and the distinctive undulating landscape.
Architectural Significance
A key reflection of the Ford House’s architectural uniqueness is that it was one of the first domestic applications of the “trades route” concept. This concept was a breakthrough respective to its time, translating into separate routes within the house for family members and servants to ensure privacy for the family without disrupting service operations.
Other awe-inspiring features include deceptively real-looking artificial “ruins” and deliberately established vistas to elevate the overall visual appeal of the estate landscape. Kahn and Jensen ensured the integration of the built environment with the natural surroundings, through the placement of the house, the shape of the grounds, and the choice of plantings, creating a space that feels organic and harmonious.
Main Attractions
The Ford House offers a multitude of attractions that serve to draw in countless visitors annually. Guided tours of the house provide insights into the artistic creativity of Edsel and Eleanor Ford, with rooms meticulously curated to reflect their personal style and interests.
As you traverse the domicile, you can see the family’s original collection of antiques, arts, and other personal artifacts. The house presents a treasure trove of valuable collections, including Degas and Diego Rivera works, and a stunning collection of Pewabic Pottery.
Moreover, the expansive, beautifully designed grounds offer an experience of their own. Nature trails wind through mature trees and beautifully manicured lawns, perfect for quiet exploration and relaxation. The property also boasts a pool and pool house, a stunning lakefront view, and a captivating bird sanctuary.
Conclusion
In essence, the Ford House is not just a historical estate, but a clubbed essence of architectural brilliance, natural beauty, and an invaluable artifact collection. Offering a deep dive into the history of American industrialization and artistic tastefulness of the Ford family, it stands as a telling emblem of a bygone era. The house opens its gates to the keepers of history, admirers of art, and seekers of natural tranquillity. A visit to the Ford House, therefore, offers a truly immersive experience, breathing life into tales of the past, while inspiring its visitors in the present.