November 2013 / Detroit, MI

Small business owners can benefit immensely from good design, both from an urban development place-making perspective, and from the business side. However, it is often difficult to justify the cost of hiring a designer. DIB is a test of how the architect can become directly invested in a project - rather than a typical design fee, LAAVU has equity in the business.

The project involved a 1800 sq. ft. new structure for new kitchen space and the renovation of a previously vacant 1700 sq. ft. building for retail, connected through a restored historic archway. As a gateway to Corktown, the new corner facade of the existing building creates a visual connection between Michigan Avenue and Detroit's CBD. Reclaimed wood and recycled materials are used throughout. Historic archways of the existing building are re-opened as window and doorways. In addition, after completing a green space analysis of Corktown, we recognized the need for (and created) a pocket park to increase the walkability of the neighborhood. A local artist, Ben Saginaw, was commissioned to create a mural on the new construction facade facing the park. Patrons can experience the bagel-making process through programmed windows while enjoying the green space.