226 Provencal was completed in 1940, it was designed by Detroit architect Frank A. Miles for media pioneer John Lord Booth. At 9,583 sq ft and located on a 2-acre lot, it is one of the larger homes in the gated community.
Constructed of red brick, the front elevation has a large-scale portico supported by four columns that provide a striking entrance to the formal residence. The front of the property is also dominated by an abundance of large windows, particularly notable are the two large bay windows on either side of the house. The low-pitched slate roof has three small dormers, at the front and at the rear, while a large terrace on the second floor provides a wonderful stage to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Inside the six-bedroom home, the impressive foyer opens to a grand floating staircase that overlooks a large gallery. Many of the first-floor rooms have wood floors, and exquisite paneling, carving, and millwork. There are eight fireplaces located throughout the house, along with soaring ceilings, a wine cellar in the basement, and a heated four and a half car attached garage. The expansive sunroom overlooks the private garden, and the heated in-ground salt-water pool (a later addition).
The original owner of the home, John L. Booth was the son of Ralph Harmon Booth, president of Booth newspapers, and a major arts patron in Detroit. John L. Booth was born in Detroit in 1907. Having graduated from Yale, in 1928, he held the position of vice president and treasurer at the Ralph H. Booth Corporation (1931-1938). From 1939 he was the founder, owner, and chairman of numerous broadcasting companies throughout Michigan and the United States and founded one of the nation’s first FM radio stations. He was also the owner of the popular WJLB-FM. John L. Booth married Louise Preston Camper in 1944, together they had four children.
The designer of 226 Provencal was Detroit-based architect Frank Allen Miles. During the project he collaborated with noted local architect Leonard B. Willeke who designed the picturesque gardens and the fountain on the rear terrace.
Frank A. Miles designed around 20 homes throughout the Grosse Pointe communities between 1926 and 1951. Much of his work is located on some of Grosse Pointe’s more noteworthy streets such as Provencal, Lothrop, Touraine, and Renaud.
226 Provencal is an impactful home, designed for a member of one of Detroit’s more prominent families. It takes its place on a street that is filled with architectural masterpieces.
For more information, contact Kay Agney, Higbie Maxon Agnes Inc. 313.886.3400, www.higbiemaxon.com
bedrooms: 6
bathrooms: 9 full baths, 2 half baths
size: 9,583 sq ft
year built: 1940
price: $2,495,000
parking: 4.5 Attached garage spaces
2 acre lot
