Original Construction
1915
Completion Date
1987
National Historic Register Listed

Nickels Arcade is a distinctive historic landmark in downtown Ann Arbor, located across from the University of Michigan’s Central Campus Diag within the city’s State Street shopping district. The covered arcade houses a collection of independent retailers, specialty shops, galleries, and other businesses, contributing to the area’s longstanding commercial and architectural character. Its significance as a historic urban building lies in its enduring role as a pedestrian-oriented retail destination and its contribution to Ann Arbor’s cultural and commercial heritage.

Gene Hopkins, FAIA, served as principal-in-charge and preservation architect, leading the restoration of this distinctive commercial landmark. The project included the restoration of original lighting, storefronts, signage, doors, and windows, as well as the renovation of second-floor corridors serving office spaces and the replacement of awnings along the State Street and Maynard Street façades. Additional work included the design of a new north entrance, conceptual planning for the reorganization of the main banking floor, and restoration of the original banking room. Historic materials salvaged from the building’s south side were incorporated into the primary façade, preserving original architectural elements while enhancing the building’s presentation. The project was certified by the U.S. Department of the Interior under the historic tax credit program, recognizing its compliance with applicable historic preservation requirements.