Strasburg, Herman, House

The Strasburg House is significant as an example of the architectural work of Marcus R. Burrowes, an architect who constructed fine libraries, municipal buildings, residences, schools and social clubs throughout the Detroit area. From 1907 to 1911, Burrowes worked in the firm of Stratton and Baldwin, Detroit architects who were leaders in the local Arts and Crafts Society. The design of the Strasburg, which is a local Arts and Crafts rendition of the late medieval English or Tudor style rural cottage, may derive from Burrowes' education at the hands of Stratton and Baldwin. The Strasburg House is important, secondly, in terms of its role in the transformation of the University-Cultural Center. The building has nearly always had some connection to the performing arts. From 1915 to 1925, the Strasburg family, leading dance teachers, occupied the building. Then, from 1931 to 1944, the structure functioned as a combined private residence and music school. Since becoming a public property in 1949, the Strasburg House has continued in the musical vein as the Wayne University Choral Studio and later the Wayne State University Music Annex.

Built in 1915 by Marcus R. Burrowes, the rustic and cottage style appearance of the asymmetrical, two-and-one-half-story Strasburg House reflects the influences of the Arts and Crafts movement. The first floor is covered in red brick, while the remainder of the exterior is done in cream colored stucco with four inch wide strips of half-timbering. The cross-gabled roof creates a basic 'T' shape plan to the structure. Four broad gable ends--three decorated with half-timbering--appear to project slightly away from the building due to the overhanging boxed eaves and cornice. In addition, a pendant decoration hangs from the peak of each gable end. Most of the windows are double-hung sashes with wooden lub sills, although there are some leaded casement windows on the first level. The four single-stack chimneys show considerable decorative brickwork. Two of the chimneys intersect the southern and western gables; the other two are end wall chimneys. The interior has gone through major alterations over the years. Still, the original oak woodwork, paneling, and cabinetry remains in good condition. The staircase features carvings done in a very ornate Jacobean pattern. A plastered barrel vault covers the ceiling of the former living room.