Real Estate Blog - and Grylls

Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – 815 Ellair Place

Posted by Kay Agney on April 15th, 2025

Last week we introduced the Gracie Wallpaper Company. This very special and exclusive interior feature is not your standard wallpaper, but a covering of silk, hand painted by artists. To this day it remains highly sought after and can be found on the walls of some of the most notable homes in the world, including at least two residences in Grosse Pointe.

This week we head to 815 Ellair Place, a magnificent English Tudor residence located at the end of the street, overlooking Lake St. Clair. It was designed by the nationally recognized firm of Smith, Hinchman & Grylls in 1930, for John A. Bryant. Mr. Bryant was co-founder of the Bryant and Detwiler Company, one of Detroit's most noted building contractor firms. 815 Ellair was built by his own…

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Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – The Country Club of Detroit

Posted by Kay Agney on January 24th, 2023

Last week we concluded our two-part feature on the Grosse Pointe Yacht with a presentation on the design of the club house, from the ornate exterior to the splendid Italian influenced interior. Upon completion on July 4, 1929, it was one of the finest yacht clubs in America.

This week we bring our exploration of Grosse Pointe Clubs to a close as we focus on the Country Club of Detroit. The current building was designed by the prestigious Detroit firm of Smith, Hinchmann, and Grylls. It opened in 1927.

Prior to the completion of the new clubhouse the history of the Country Club of Detroit (CCD) dates to 1886, when the original building was completed. The club hired architect William E. Brown to design a clubhouse that would be situated on the…

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Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – Welcome to St. Paul’s – Part 3

Posted by Kay Agney on September 13th, 2022

Last week we continued our presentation on the St. Paul’s Church complex as we explored the interior of St. Paul’s church, along with the history of the rectory, the parish house, and the barn. This week we conclude our series with part 3, as we visit the school and convent buildings.

The St. Pauls' Catholic school and convent are located at the opposite end of the property, on Grosse Pointe Blvd. In 1926, it is reported the church committee voted to build a new elementary and high school on the grounds of the St. Paul’s church. The then pastor Fr. Alonzo H.B Nacy commissioned nationally acclaimed Detroit architectural firm Smith, Hinchman, and Grylls to design the school and convent buildings. “St. Paul's had acquired the Bertha Palms Lewis…

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