Lansing, Michigan, has a rich architectural history that reflects its growth and transformation over the years. From historic homes to modern buildings, the city offers a diverse range of architectural styles that showcase both its past and present.
Discover the 10 best architectural buildings in Lansing, and explore the unique structures that have contributed to the city’s evolving landscape. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or just curious about noteworthy buildings in Lansing, this article will guide you through some of the finest examples of design and construction in the area.
1. Michigan State Capitol
The Michigan State Capitol in Lansing is a historic landmark. Designed by architect Elijah E. Myers, it was dedicated in 1879. This impressive structure is known for its Victorian architecture.
Visitors can explore the ornate interior and admire over nine acres of hand-painted surfaces. The Capitol also houses the chambers and offices of the Michigan Legislature. Learn more here.
2. Turner-Dodge House
The Turner-Dodge House in Lansing stands as a fine example of Classical Revival architecture. Built in 1858, this historic mansion was constructed by James and Marion Turner, key figures in establishing the city’s early infrastructure.
The house is now a museum and heritage center, dedicated to Lansing’s early pioneers. It offers a glimpse into the past with its period-appropriate restoration, making it a significant cultural landmark.
For more information, visit the Turner-Dodge House and Heritage Center.
3. R.E. Olds Transportation Museum
The R.E. Olds Transportation Museum is a gem in Lansing, Michigan, showcasing the rich history of automotive innovation. Located near the Grand River at 240 Museum Drive, it’s a must-visit for car enthusiasts.
Visitors can see a diverse collection of Oldsmobiles dating back to 1897. The museum includes rare vehicles such as the 1904 Curved Dash Olds. This museum highlights Lansing’s important role in the automotive industry, making it a key architectural landmark.
For more information, visit the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum.
4. Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center
The Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center is a key cultural spot in Lansing, Michigan. Founded over 30 years ago, this gallery supports local artists and provides a place for the community to engage with visual arts.
It is currently located in the lower level of a former department store building. The gallery showcases a range of artistic works from more than 100 Michigan artists.
The center also offers educational programs to promote public awareness and enjoyment of the visual arts. The Lansing Art Gallery’s mission aligns with enhancing the community’s cultural well-being.
Read more about the Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center here.
5. The Knapp’s Centre
The Knapp’s Centre, originally known as the J.W. Knapp Company Building, is an iconic structure in downtown Lansing. Built in 1937, it showcases the Streamline Moderne style, known for its sleek lines and curved forms.
The building was an important retail hub for decades. In 2012, a $36 million renovation began to restore its former glory. Completed in 2014, this project revitalized the historic landmark, making it a vibrant part of the community again.
Today, the building includes office spaces and retail areas. It remains a significant piece of Lansing’s architectural heritage.
6. Old Town Lansing
Old Town Lansing is renowned for its beautiful Victorian buildings. This area is filled with unique galleries, tasty eateries, and quaint boutiques.
Located in the northern end of the city, Old Town sits by the Grand River. It also features a winding bike trail, making it a scenic spot to visit.
Voted one of the top places to bring visitors, Old Town offers a charming mix of urban and small-town feel.
7. Cooley Law School Stadium
Cooley Law School Stadium is a notable structure in downtown Lansing. It opened in 1996 and has been a key location for both sports and community events. The stadium is home to the Lansing Lugnuts, a minor league baseball team.
Michigan State University’s baseball team also plays select games at this stadium. Recent renovations have modernized the field and added a unique apartment complex known as The Outfield behind center field.
8. The Creole Gallery
The Creole Gallery is a notable spot in Lansing, Michigan. This small live theater hosts performances suitable for all ages. It showcases local and regional visual artists, musicians, and performers.
Visitors can find it at 1218 Turner St. The gallery is ranked as one of the top attractions in Lansing. It offers a unique blend of art and community engagement.
For more details, check out the Creole Gallery on TripAdvisor.
9. Frandor Mall
Frandor Mall, located on the border of Lansing and East Lansing, opened in August 1954. It is known as Michigan’s second oldest mall.
The mall covers about 450,000 square feet and features key stores like Kroger, HomeGoods, and Jo-Ann Fabrics.
Originally built on a former golf course, Frandor also had an amusement park and a miniature golf course in its early days.
For more details, visit Frandor Shopping Center Facts and Photos.
10. The Boji Tower
The Boji Tower, originally known as the Michigan National Bank Building, is a historic 23-story skyscraper located at 124 Allegan Street, Lansing, Michigan.
Completed in 1931, it has been the tallest building in Lansing since its construction. The building’s design features a brick and limestone facade with Art Deco elements.
Renamed in 2005, the Boji Tower remains a significant landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Discover more about the Boji Tower and its role in Lansing’s architectural history.
Architectural Styles in Lansing
Lansing offers a mix of architectural styles. From modernist designs to historic buildings, the city’s architectural diversity provides insights into its history and development.
Modernist Structures
Lansing features several notable modernist buildings. One key example is the office buildings in the downtown area. Many of these structures showcase clean lines, large glass windows, and simple geometric forms typical of the modernist movement.
Another important site is Lansing Community College. Over the years, the campus has integrated modern architectural elements, emphasizing functionality and open spaces. These buildings often use materials like steel and concrete, reflecting the modernist focus on industrial simplicity.
Historic Architecture
Lansing’s historic architecture is well represented by the Michigan State Capitol. Built in 1879, this neoclassical structure features a striking cast-iron dome and detailed interior, embodying the city’s historical architectural ambitions.
Victorian- and Queen Anne-style homes are found surrounding the Capitol. These homes, with their decorative trims and asymmetrical facades, showcase the city’s rich architectural past. Additionally, the Rogers-Carrier House, located on the Lansing Community College campus, is a prime example of Darius Moon’s iconic designs.
Another noteworthy historic building is St. Mary Cathedral. Built in 1911, it exemplifies the Norman-Gothic style with its semicircular arches and square towers, adding to the city’s diverse architectural landscape.
Influential Architects in Lansing
Lansing, Michigan, has been shaped by talented architects and firms who have left a lasting impact on the city’s built environment. From celebrated local firms to the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright, each has contributed significantly to Lansing’s architectural heritage.
Local Architectural Firms
Studio [intrigue] Architects, LLC, located in REO Town, stands out as a prominent local firm. Founded in 2003, they offer a range of services like planning, architecture, and interior design. Their projects are known for their innovative approaches and have received both local and national acclaim.
Another notable mention includes architects Lee and Kenneth Black. Their design efforts in Lansing include influences from famous International-style buildings, underscoring their significant contributions to the city’s architectural landscape.
William Appleyard is another key figure. Known for designing Eustace Hall at Michigan State University in 1888, Appleyard has left a lasting mark on the city’s historic architecture. This building is particularly celebrated for its detailed and thoughtful design.
Influence of Frank Lloyd Wright
Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural influence extends to Lansing through his principles and some direct designs.
Wright, known for his organic architecture and Prairie School movement, emphasized harmony between human habitation and the natural world.
Wright’s philosophy can be seen in the design elements and structures within Lansing, inspiring numerous local architects.
His work incorporates open interior spaces and natural materials, which are seen in various Lansing buildings inspired by his style.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s emphasis on integrating buildings with their surroundings has been a guiding principle for many Lansing architects.
His legacy is evident in the thoughtful, context-aware designs seen throughout the city.