Ford Announces New Dearborn Headquarters, Plans To Demolish Iconic Glass House

Ford plans to shift from its Glass House building to a fresh 2.1 million-square-foot site in Dearborn, Michigan. Work starts this November, with full completion set for 2027.

The site, dubbed the Henry Ford II World Center, will bring together 4,000 staff members. Bill Ford and Jim Farley shared per Forbes that 14,000 total workers can walk to the main building within 15 minutes.

"The future of our industry demands a different kind of space—one that is more connected, more flexible, and built for the speed of a technology- and software-driven company," Ford and Farley said in their joint statement.

Three miles from the current site, the new space sits where Ford's Product Development Center once stood. Inside, you'll find six design studios and a vast 160,000-square-foot eating area. Staff can use wellness spaces or pick from 300 high-tech meeting rooms.

Workers will soon leave the Glass House, built in 1956 at 1 American Road. Crews will spend 18 months taking down the 12-story structure, known for its see-through walls. Auto giants like Lee Iacocca and Hal Sperlich once walked these halls.

"When we move to the new headquarters, the 1 American Road address will move with it, because we're going to continue to develop products for the next century," Ted Ryan, who manages Ford's history and brand, said according to The Associated Press.

The chosen spot holds rich car-making history. Back in 1953, President Eisenhower made waves by using new TV tech to open the center. Famous cars like the Mustang came to life here. The F-Series trucks and Thunderbird also got their start at this spot.

City officials in Dearborn are working with Ford to map out the Glass House land's next chapter. They'll share their ideas soon.

This move fits a pattern in car making. GM just picked a new spot in downtown Detroit, leaving its riverfront home.

As builders put final touches on Ford's new home base, they're planning a big welcome party. Doors open in November 2025.