ArchShowcase Sumit Singhal
Sumit Singhal loves modern architecture. He comes from a family of builders who have built more than 20 projects in the last ten years near Delhi in India. He has recently started writing about the architectural projects that catch his imagination. Energizing Downtown in Detroit by Incite DesignOctober 24th, 2013 by Sumit Singhal
Article source: Incite Design Detroit is a unique city in so many ways. It has a rich heritage but has perhaps more important in our view is its potential for embracing new ways of inhabiting spaces. Our goal was to bring the vibrancy and possibility back to the city in the form of a structure that brings together ingenuity and thoughtfulness to this site. We wanted to look forward to the promise of something re-imagined but also acknowledge what was there before and propose as part of the project a digital repository where citizens can contribute to the shared memories.
We imagined the life of the city intensified into one site. At the heart of it is the concept of the main street but re-interpreted, re-oriented perpendicularly and folded in on itself to create a stacking of program over the site. In this way we looked to intensify the site with interesting interactions and uses that can provide a spark and suggest new ways of using the space. It also brings new life to Woodward Avenue by reinforcing that corridor and allowing a contrast that brings a creative tension that will be exciting and productive. The orientation of the program within the structures allows new connections to be made between Woodward Avenue and Farmer Street breaking down the monolithic composure of the block and allowing for more connections when people move through the site. The building also opens up as you move from Woodward making for a seamless connection to the Public Library building completing the natural procession from commerce to arts to civic activities. We have devised a strategy of embracing the arts community, engaging commerce and re-igniting growth through shared experiences and collaboration. The forms are characterized by a human scale while still presenting larger community program elements at the urban level. It’s an area that can be perceived as a lively downtown neighborhood or restorative park depending on the setting and time of day. An ever-changing canvas for inspiration and resourcefulness to re-ignite the creative spark of the city. Contact Incite Design
Tags: Detroit Category: City Center |