The building at 455–459 Alfred Street, constructed in 1888, was designed by Hess & Raseman. Simpler in form than some of the firm’s other work, the building nonetheless clearly reflects the influence of the Romanesque Revival style. A prominent central arch used to shelter the entrances to both units of this side-by-side double house, and the ornamental brickwork is characteristic of the period. The 1892 Detroit City Directory lists the occupants as Label Altman, a bank clerk, and Samuel Rindskoff, a traveling agent, offering insight into the solidly middle-class character of the residence.