Detroit Architects: Brown & Derrick

Brown & Derrick, the brainchild of iconic architectural duo J. Martin Brown and Robert O. Derrick, was a leading architectural practice that operated out of Detroit in the early 20th century.

A major player in shaping some of the city’s most heralded historic districts, Brown & Derrick was known for their popular revival style designs, their stunning Tudors, Georgians, and Colonials attracting the attention of Detroit’s golden age elite.

For proof of Brown & Derrick’s standout work, look no further than the Indian Village historic district, where their high-quality craftsmanship helped establish the villages reputation as a place of cohesive, eye-catching architecture. 

Notable examples include:

• The Henry J. Cupper House at 2930 Burns
• The Charles H. Fletcher House at 2942 Burns
• The J. Halsey McKown House at 2954 Burns
• The Royall T. Bates House at 2918 Burns

Together, these homes form a remarkable fabric along one of the city of Detroit’s most distinguished streetscapes, demonstrating Brown & Derrick’s natural ability for crafting elegant, sought-after residences that appealed to the city’s upper class.