1876 Ransom Gillis House Famously Restored From Ruin By Nicole Curtis
Nestled in the historic heart of Detroit’s Brush Park, the Ransom Gillis House stands as a powerful testament to the power of preservation, vision, and design.
Originally built in 1876, this grand Venetian Gothic Revival mansion was once a crumbling shadow of its former glory.
But thanks to a painstaking and passionate restoration led by renowned designer and preservationist Nicole Curtis in 2015, the home has been brought back to life—perhaps better than ever.
Located at 205 Alfred St, Unit 1, the home now boasts 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 luxurious bathrooms, and nearly 2,815 square feet of meticulously finished living space (with the original home containing almost 4,300 square feet).
It’s not just a home; it’s a work of art, a piece of Detroit’s living history, and a tribute to what can happen when someone dares to save instead of demolish.
A Storied Past
The Ransom Gillis House was originally built during Detroit’s Gilded Age, when Brush Park was one of the most fashionable neighborhoods in the city.
Designed by architect George D. Mason with help from Zachariah Rice, the home was a stunning example of the Venetian Gothic style, featuring dramatic arched windows, elaborate brickwork, and a signature turret on the corner.
Over the years, however, the area fell into decline, and by the 20th century, the house had been abandoned for decades—its intricate façade collapsing, and its interior reduced to rubble.
Yet, even in decay, the home remained iconic, often photographed as a haunting symbol of Detroit’s economic and architectural collapse.
The Nicole Curtis Transformation
In 2015, Nicole Curtis—best known for her HGTV series Rehab Addict—took on the challenge of restoring the Ransom Gillis House to its original grandeur.
Her mission was not simply to modernize, but to preserve and authentically restore as many original elements as possible.
Using historical photos and architectural plans, Curtis and her team revived the home’s turret, recreated period-specific woodwork, and sourced vintage materials to bring the interiors back to life.
The restoration was featured in an eight-part miniseries and captivated audiences across the country, reintroducing a national audience to the elegance of Detroit’s historic architecture.
Living in History
Now fully renovated and move-in ready, the Ransom Gillis House offers a luxurious and functional living space that blends old-world charm with modern convenience.
The primary suite is a sanctuary, boasting soaring ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and a lavish attached bathroom complete with a clawfoot tub, walk-in shower, and dual sinks. Every detail nods to the home’s Victorian past while still offering the comfort expected by today’s homeowners.
The kitchen is a standout—featuring custom-crafted cabinets topped with marble, tall paneled doors, and custom brass latches that echo the design cues of the 19th century.
While it looks vintage, it’s anything but outdated. Stainless steel appliances and a modern hood fan bring full functionality to this gourmet space.
Downstairs, the finished garden level expands the home’s usable space significantly, offering an entertainment-ready bar area, a home office, gym, and ample storage.
Whether you’re hosting a large event or enjoying a quiet evening, this home offers flexibility for every occasion.
Ideal Location
Situated just minutes from some of Detroit’s most iconic landmarks—Comerica Park, Little Caesars Arena, Ford Field, DMC, and Henry Ford Hospital—the Ransom Gillis House offers unbeatable access to downtown culture, sports, and healthcare.
Despite its central location, the home maintains a peaceful residential feel thanks to its setting within the rejuvenated Brush Park neighborhood.
This neighborhood has undergone a renaissance of its own, with restored mansions, modern townhomes, and boutique developments reshaping the community into one of the most desirable areas in Detroit.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
It’s not every day a home like the Ransom Gillis House comes to market. With its unmatched history, show-stopping design, and central location, this property is truly a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Whether you’re drawn by its architecture, its story, or simply its beauty, this is a home that promises to impress.
From intimate evenings in the regal parlor to grand galas in the formal dining space, this is a home made for both luxury living and historical appreciation.
As Nicole Curtis said during the restoration, “We’re not just rebuilding a house; we’re bringing a piece of Detroit’s history back to life.”
