The GM Building experience: prior to renovation. This 80-year old landmark did not have ductwork or air conditioning.

Snips, August, 2003 by McConnell, Michael

DETROIT -- More than a million square feet. Five thousand windows. No air conditioning.

That was the former world headquarters for General Motors Corp. before a two-year, $126 million renovation of the 80-year-old building was completed in November.

Although the historic structure was much loved by architects and GM workers for its ornate, arching ceilings, marbled hallways and limestone-covered facade, it was far from an ideal working environment. While well-preserved, virtually everything--from elevators to electricity--in the mammoth building was outdated. Steam radiators provided all heat. During the summer, 1,860 window air conditioners, combined with hundreds of spot-cooling devices, attempted to keep employees comfortable, often with little...

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