Detroit Secret Garden at the Moross House
Making Magic in Historical Event Venue
Detroit Secret Garden Events
Imagine hosting your event at Schinkel Fine Art at the Moross House, Detroit’s oldest brick dwelling, amid history, art and charm. Just outside the back door lies a private brick walled ivy covered garden, home to the oldest wisteria in the Midwest, climbing a light covered trellis. Underneath the trellis an enchanting space is adorned with a long wooden table and seating areas inviting dining and relaxation.
The backyard at The Moross House, the Detroit Secret Garden, is a lush, secluded oasis, where ivy-covered brick walls enclose a serene courtyard filled with vibrant greenery. Stepping from the home’s historic interior into the Detroit Secret Garden feels like entering a hidden retreat in the heart of the city. This enchanting setting provides you and your guests with a truly unique and unforgettable experience in Detroit.
Schinkel Fine Art at the Moross House is available for event rentals for unforgettable experiences. From private business and personal dinners, birthday celebrations, wedding showers, rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, pop-ups and photo shoots the historic venue will elevate your gathering amid the indoor and outdoor Schinkel Fine Art filled space with integrated indoor and outdoor lighting.
Contact us to learn more and for bookings.
The Moross House
Schinkel Fine Art relocated its studio and established a showroom at The Moross House, a National Historic Registered property, in 2016. The home's Greek Revival architecture, characterized by clean lines and defined planes, reflects the visual elements found in Schinkel Fine Art’s work. This industrial yet refined space aligns with the artists' aesthetic, blending historical charm with a contemporary vision.
The surrounding landscape complements the organic elements integral to Schinkel Fine Art’s work. Nature serves as both inspiration and material for their medium, creating a dynamic interplay between natural and urban influences. The Moross House’s unique setting enhances this duality, reinforcing the connection between tradition and modernity in the artists’ creations.
From the early 1970s until 2005, the property was owned by the City of Detroit and managed by the Detroit Historical Society and Detroit Garden Center. The original portraits of the Moross family, once displayed in the home, are now part of the Detroit Historical Society’s collection.
Free street parking is available in front on E. Jefferson and behind the property on Woodbridge. Contact us today for more information.
Please
call today for more information.
A Rich History of Craftsmanship
The storied past of The Moross House continues to inspire Schinkel Fine Art’s work and entrepreneurial vision. Christopher Moross (1821–1901), a descendant of one of Detroit’s early French families, was a skilled brick mason. He constructed two brick homes on the property—one as his residence and the other as a rental. His father, Victor Moross, acquired the land in 1843 when it was still part of the Riopelle Farm. Built between 1843 and the early 1850s, though exact dates remain uncertain, the home stands as a distinguished example of Greek Revival architecture and holds the distinction of being Detroit’s oldest brick dwelling.
Among its notable residents was Union Colonel Freeman Norvell, who served as a Michigan State Senator and University of Michigan Regent. During his time in the house, he co-owned the Detroit Free Press. A decorated Civil War officer, Colonel Norvell played a role in the decisive 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, contributing to General Robert E. Lee’s defeat. He was the son of U.S. Senator John Norvell, one of Michigan’s first two United States Senators.
From the late 1960s until 2005, while the city of Detroit owned the property, it was managed by the Detroit Historical Society and became known as the Moross House Museum. During this period, the Detroit Garden Center also operated on the premises, investing $75,000 in constructing a cedar potting shed and renovating the garden.
For more information about the Detroit Secret Garden Gallery, please
contact today.
EVENT RENTAL DETAILS
Please Note:
• Max CapacityInside only: 85 Strolling /50Seated
• Max CapacityInside/Outside: 250 strolling/125 Seated
• 1st floor 1,700 sqf., Total Property 8,800 sqf.
•Free street parking on Jefferson. Free parking lots with 80 spaces at adjacent Diversified Members Credit Union on Woodbridge Monday-Thursday after 4:30, Friday after 6:00, Saturday after 1:00 and all day Sunday
•Gated 800 sqf. auxiliary space and entrance/exit on Woodbridge separate from garden
Items NOT included and may be available for a Fee:
• Tables, Chairs, Décor, Wine Glasses
•Lighting Operator for interactive Lighting Art Show, SoundSystem, DJ
•470 sqf. upstairs space with designer bathroom and Detroit River view
•10x10 -10 x 20’ aluminum truss tent
We’re happy to assist in any way we can, just inquire!
Moross House Ground Level Floor Plan
Detroit Secret Garden Site Plan
Detroit Secret Garden
Enchanting Experience Day or Night
Learn More About
Schinkel Fine Art
Nestled in downtown Detroit, in the shadow of the Renaissance Center, Schinkel Fine Art is a unique gallery showcasing innovative contemporary art including handcrafted silver mirror, metal, and mixed media. Situated within the Moross House—the city's oldest brick dwelling—the gallery features original works by Theodore M. Schinkel and Linda K. Schinkel, along with rotating exhibitions.
Owned and operated by the Schinkels, the space is also known as the Detroit Secret Garden, an enchanting venue available for indoor and outdoor events. This historic property seamlessly blends innovative artistry with the charm of circa-1840s architecture, all set within a serene, hidden garden.
Plan your visit or contact us today for more information.
