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The District Detroit

Featured Project

The District Detroit brings together three previously fragmented neighborhoods by enhancing the public realm, orchestrating a thoughtful mix of program types, and celebrating the city’s rich history, culture, and emerging innovation industry.

Location

Detroit, MI, USA

Client

Related, Olympia Development of Michigan

Reconnecting a Neighborhood

The spaces just outside the nucleus of urban downtowns are some of a city’s most critical. They leverage the infrastructure and amenities of downtown while functioning as a “heart”—a lived in, worked in, played in space that constitutes a community. For this project, we leaned on the local sports, entertainment, and academic infrastructure to create The District Detroit.

A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Two large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A highlighted section in bright green, shaped like a curved wedge, stands out in the foreground, indicating a specific focus area within the cityscape. The map emphasizes the spatial relationship between the highlighted green zone and its surrounding urban context.

Existing Anchors

The site is already anchored to the South by downtown Detroit, as well as to the North and East by two major sports venues for the city: Little Caesars Arena and Comerica Park.

A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Three large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A bright green, curved wedge-shaped zone is prominently highlighted in the foreground, indicating a specific area of focus within the cityscape. The map emphasizes the spatial layout and relationships between the highlighted green zone, the blue areas, and the surrounding urban environment.

Planned Anchors

With the University of Michigan Center for Innovation slated for the eastern edge of the site, The District Detroit will be surrounded on all four sides by major tenants and attractions.

A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Three large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A bright green, curved wedge-shaped zone is highlighted in the foreground, indicating a specific area of focus. Overlaid on the map are three large arrows: a green curved arrow connecting the green zone to a blue area in the upper right, and two straight orange arrows crossing horizontally, connecting the green zone to blue areas on the left and right. The arrows suggest movement, flow, or connectivity between these key areas within the urban context.

Connectors

Park Avenue and Columbia Street connect the four anchors, creating vibrant and green corridors through the center of the new district.

A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Three large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A bright green, curved wedge-shaped zone is highlighted in the foreground, indicating a specific area of focus. Overlaid on the map are orange 3D building forms clustered in the central area, representing key structures or developments. Three large arrows are present: a green curved arrow connecting the green zone to a blue area in the upper right, and two straight orange arrows crossing horizontally, connecting the green zone to blue areas on the left and right. The map emphasizes connectivity, development, and spatial relationships between the highlighted zones and surrounding urban context.

Reinforcing with Infill

The anchors and space surrounding the connectors are reinforced with appropriately scaled infill development.

A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Three large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A bright green, curved wedge-shaped zone is highlighted in the foreground, indicating a specific area of focus. Overlaid on the map are orange and yellow 3D building forms, representing key structures or developments, with orange buildings concentrated in the central area and yellow buildings extending toward the green zone. Three large arrows are present: a green curved arrow connecting the green zone to a blue area in the upper right, and two straight orange arrows crossing horizontally, connecting the green zone to blue areas on the left and right. The map highlights connectivity, development, and the spatial integration of the green zone with the surrounding urban fabric.

Celebrating Historic Structures

Many of the structures in the neighborhood connect the site to Detroit’s storied past, including the iconic Fox Theatre movie palace. These buildings are not only integrated into but also emphasized by the new vision.

A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Three large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A bright green, curved wedge-shaped zone is highlighted in the foreground, indicating a specific area of focus. Overlaid on the map are orange and yellow 3D building forms, representing key structures or developments, with orange buildings concentrated in the central area and yellow buildings extending toward the green zone. Three large arrows are present: a green curved arrow connecting the green zone to a blue area in the upper right, and two straight orange arrows crossing horizontally, connecting the green zone to blue areas on the left and right. At the center of the map, a circular icon with a heart symbol surrounded by radiating lines is prominently displayed, suggesting a focal point of community, vitality, or significance within the urban context.

Creating a Heart

At the intersection of the two major axes, where there is currently an empty parking lot, there is an opportunity to build a new heart for the neighborhood, with a dense mix of uses.

A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Two large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A highlighted section in bright green, shaped like a curved wedge, stands out in the foreground, indicating a specific focus area within the cityscape. The map emphasizes the spatial relationship between the highlighted green zone and its surrounding urban context.
A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Three large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A bright green, curved wedge-shaped zone is prominently highlighted in the foreground, indicating a specific area of focus within the cityscape. The map emphasizes the spatial layout and relationships between the highlighted green zone, the blue areas, and the surrounding urban environment.
A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Three large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A bright green, curved wedge-shaped zone is highlighted in the foreground, indicating a specific area of focus. Overlaid on the map are three large arrows: a green curved arrow connecting the green zone to a blue area in the upper right, and two straight orange arrows crossing horizontally, connecting the green zone to blue areas on the left and right. The arrows suggest movement, flow, or connectivity between these key areas within the urban context.
A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Three large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A bright green, curved wedge-shaped zone is highlighted in the foreground, indicating a specific area of focus. Overlaid on the map are orange 3D building forms clustered in the central area, representing key structures or developments. Three large arrows are present: a green curved arrow connecting the green zone to a blue area in the upper right, and two straight orange arrows crossing horizontally, connecting the green zone to blue areas on the left and right. The map emphasizes connectivity, development, and spatial relationships between the highlighted zones and surrounding urban context.
A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Three large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A bright green, curved wedge-shaped zone is highlighted in the foreground, indicating a specific area of focus. Overlaid on the map are orange and yellow 3D building forms, representing key structures or developments, with orange buildings concentrated in the central area and yellow buildings extending toward the green zone. Three large arrows are present: a green curved arrow connecting the green zone to a blue area in the upper right, and two straight orange arrows crossing horizontally, connecting the green zone to blue areas on the left and right. The map highlights connectivity, development, and the spatial integration of the green zone with the surrounding urban fabric.
A stylized 3D map of an urban area with a dark blue background and outlined buildings in lighter blue. Three large areas are filled with solid blue, representing significant landmarks or open spaces. A bright green, curved wedge-shaped zone is highlighted in the foreground, indicating a specific area of focus. Overlaid on the map are orange and yellow 3D building forms, representing key structures or developments, with orange buildings concentrated in the central area and yellow buildings extending toward the green zone. Three large arrows are present: a green curved arrow connecting the green zone to a blue area in the upper right, and two straight orange arrows crossing horizontally, connecting the green zone to blue areas on the left and right. At the center of the map, a circular icon with a heart symbol surrounded by radiating lines is prominently displayed, suggesting a focal point of community, vitality, or significance within the urban context.
Before After
An aerial view of an urban area featuring a mix of buildings, parking lots, and roads. In the lower right corner, a large baseball stadium with a green field is prominently visible. To the top right, another large building with a distinctive logo and design is present, likely another significant venue or arena. The streets form a grid-like pattern, with several buildings of varying heights scattered throughout the image. Residential areas with houses can be seen in the upper right section, while the lower left section features a mix of commercial buildings and open spaces.
Aerial view of a densely built urban area featuring a mix of modern and traditional buildings. The scene includes various structures with green roofs, open spaces with trees, and a large sports stadium filled with spectators in the lower right corner. There are multiple streets and intersections with parked cars and moving traffic, as well as several parking lots interspersed among the buildings. The overall layout suggests a well-organized cityscape with a balance of commercial, residential, and recreational areas.

An Always Vibrant Public Realm

KPF's urban plan is not just spatial—it is also temporal. The flexible streets are designed with consideration for seasonal operations, like skating in the winter or outdoor concerts in the summer, as well as different programming for the work week and sports-filled weekends.

Evening view of a bustling urban street filled with people enjoying various activities. The street is flanked by buildings with illuminated signs for restaurants, coffee shops, and a sports bar, indicating a lively dining and entertainment district. String lights are strung across the walkway, adding a festive atmosphere. Trees with autumn foliage line the street, and people are gathered around outdoor seating areas, walking, and socializing. The sky is transitioning from day to night, casting a soft light over the scene.
Evening view of a lively urban area with a prominent sports stadium in the background, illuminated by bright stadium lights. The foreground features a modern building with large windows and an outdoor terrace where people are seated, socializing, and enjoying the view. Below, a bustling plaza is filled with people walking, gathering, and engaging in various activities. The plaza is adorned with trees, outdoor seating, and decorative lighting, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. The sky is clear, indicating a calm and pleasant evening.
A vibrant urban street scene bathed in sunlight, lined with trees and historic brick buildings. The left side features a cozy café with outdoor seating and string lights, while pedestrians and cyclists fill the street, creating a lively atmosphere. A small black SUV is parked on the red-brick-paved road. The right side showcases an Italian restaurant with additional outdoor seating. The scene is framed by lush greenery and gives a sense of a welcoming, walkable community.
A bustling public plaza filled with people walking, socializing, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. The space is flanked by modern brick buildings with arched architectural features on the right and a market-style structure with green steel frames and trees on the left. In the background, the Comerica Park stadium with its iconic light towers is visible, adding a sports venue vibe to the scene. The plaza is dotted with trees, outdoor seating areas, and public art, creating a vibrant and dynamic urban gathering space.

From Highway to Neighborhood

One of the most critical considerations for reconnecting the neighborhood is undoing the divide caused by the highway. Our designers have suggested three alternatives for handling this space.

A Living Bridge

This option considered the value of a “living bridge” with programming built into the pedestrian overpass, creating a continual, lively connection over both sides of the highway.

Park Full Build Out

Prioritizing a complete at-grade connection, this option creates a green space between the north and south sides of the highway.

Iconic Landscape Bridge

Another approach was to treat this element of the urban plan as an opportunity for iconicity, turning the overpass into a recognizable and distinct landscape architectural moment.

The Market

A central, flexible market space will allow for both permanent and temporary retail offerings, adding daily and seasonal vibrance.

Interior view of a spacious, modern marketplace with a high, glass-paneled ceiling supported by black metal beams. The space is filled with natural light and features a mix of open areas and various shops. People are walking, shopping, and socializing, creating a lively atmosphere. On the left side, there are stores with large glass windows displaying merchandise. An upper level with seating areas is visible, where more people are gathered. The right side includes additional retail spaces and a central area with stairs leading to different sections of the marketplace. The overall ambiance is vibrant and inviting, with a blend of contemporary and industrial design elements.

Interiors by Rockwell Group. 

Interior view of a vibrant marketplace with a blend of industrial and contemporary design elements. The space features a high glass-paneled ceiling supported by black metal beams and brick walls with large arched openings. People are walking, sitting, and socializing throughout the area. In the foreground, there is a cozy seating area with modern furniture, including sofas, chairs, and tables, where people are relaxing and chatting. To the left, a barista is preparing drinks at a coffee stand. The background shows additional retail kiosks and shops, with more people browsing and engaging in activities. The overall ambiance is lively and inviting, filled with natural light and greenery.

Interiors by Rockwell Group. 

Diverse Programming

To make The District Detroit economically resilient, KPF's plan calls for a diverse array of programming, including office, hotel, residential, and retail spaces. A mix of programming creates a space that can respond to changing times while remaining attractive both year round and year after year.

Program Types

Several typologies, including office, retail, residential, and hospitality, turn the neighborhood into a mixed-use, resilient district.

University of Michigan Center for Innovation

Designed by KPF, this soon-to-open academic and research center functions as the eastern gateway to the site. The plan includes welcoming green spaces and public realm improvements.

Hotel

The hotel provides space for the diverse visitors to the neighborhood, from tourists to sports fans to business travelers.

High Rise Office

At 2200 Woodward, our plan suggests a superblock office tower with an active and public ground level. The design would be flexible enough to accommodate several smaller tenants or one large tenant.

Major Tenant Office Tower

Our recommendation for this block is a high-end and highly amenitized office tower “jewel” perfect for a major tech company.

Mid-Rise Office Building

This mixed-use, mid-rise office at 2300 Woodward could accomodate both retail and smaller firms or start-ups.

Aerial view of a densely built urban area featuring a mix of modern and traditional buildings. The scene includes various structures with green roofs, open spaces with trees, and a large sports stadium filled with spectators in the lower right corner. There are multiple streets and intersections with parked cars and moving traffic, as well as several parking lots interspersed among the buildings. The overall layout suggests a well-organized cityscape with a balance of commercial, residential, and recreational areas.
Daytime view of a modern urban plaza with a mix of green spaces and paved walkways. The scene features people sitting on colorful chairs and tables, enjoying the outdoor environment. The plaza is surrounded by contemporary buildings, including a large, curved glass structure in the background. To the right, there is a building with a coffee shop on the ground floor. Trees and landscaped areas with purple and green plants add a touch of nature to the setting. People are walking, talking, and relaxing, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere under a clear blue sky.
Evening view of a vibrant urban district featuring modern buildings illuminated by warm lights. The scene includes a tall, glass-clad building on the left and a lower, but equally modern, building in the center adorned with string lights creating a festive atmosphere. People are walking and gathering in the plaza between the buildings, which is well-lit and bustling with activity. On the right, a brightly lit entrance to an entertainment venue or sports arena is visible, with signage indicating its purpose. The sky is transitioning to night, with a few clouds reflecting the last light of the day. Cars are parked and moving along the street in the foreground, adding to the dynamic, lively ambiance of the area.
Evening view of a bustling urban street featuring a tall, modern building with a grid-like facade of glass and brick. The building is well-lit from within, highlighting its architectural details. People are walking along the cobblestone street, some wearing sports jerseys, indicating they might be heading to or coming from a nearby event. On the right, there is a building with a brightly lit sign reading "ASSEMBLY," suggesting a restaurant or gathering place. In the background, the lights of a sports stadium and signage with a "D" logo are visible, contributing to the lively atmosphere. The overall scene is vibrant and energetic, with a mix of modern architecture and active street life.
A sunset view of a modern high-rise building with a warm-toned facade featuring a mix of glass and brick materials. The structure has a stepped design, with greenery on several terraces and a grid-like pattern on the upper levels. The reflective glass captures the golden light of the setting sun, creating a vibrant glow. In the foreground, a historic stone church with a tall steeple contrasts with the contemporary architecture. Surrounding the building are other urban structures, streets with cars, and pedestrians, creating a bustling cityscape. The scene highlights the integration of modern design with historic and urban elements in a warm, atmospheric setting.
A modern architectural rendering of a glass and steel building with a grid-like facade, featuring multiple floors and rooftop greenery. The ground level has large transparent windows showcasing an active retail or market space, with people walking, shopping, and gathering outside. To the left, a historic stone church with a tall steeple contrasts with the contemporary design of the building. In the foreground, a busy urban street includes cars, pedestrians, and landscaped elements like flower beds and trees. On the right, part of a red brick structure with an arched opening is visible, adding another layer of architectural contrast. The scene captures a vibrant, mixed-use urban environment blending historic and modern elements.
Daytime view of a vibrant urban park featuring a modern, curvilinear glass building in the background and a distinctive, patterned building to the right. The park is lush with green grass and mature trees, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. In the foreground, people are enjoying various activities: some are sitting on benches and the grass, while others are playing and interacting around a central water fountain with jets. The scene is filled with natural light, suggesting a clear, sunny day. The overall ambiance is lively and community-oriented, with a mix of relaxation and playfulness in a well-designed urban green space.

See More: Detroit's Newest Innovation Hub

Sited on a four-acre lot in The District Detroit, the KPF designed University of Michigan Center for Innovation will offer programs that focus on high-tech research, education, and innovation for university students and the community at large. Read more here.

Project Details

The District Detroit transforms 45 acres of underused space into a vibrant, resilient urban core.

Location

Detroit, MI, USA

Client

Related, Olympia Development of Michigan

Type

Size

46 acres / 185,800 m2 / 2,000,000 ft2

Project Website

www.thedistrictdetroit.com/

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Evening view of a lively urban district featuring modern buildings and a bustling street. The scene includes a tall, glass-clad building on the left and a lower, contemporary building in the center. The area is illuminated by warm lights, creating a vibrant atmosphere. In the background, the lights of a large entertainment venue or stadium are visible, with beams of light shining into the sky, indicating an event taking place. People are gathered and walking around the well-lit plaza, adding to the dynamic energy of the scene. The street in the foreground shows the motion blur of car lights, suggesting active traffic. The sky is transitioning from dusk to night, with a mix of dark clouds and the last hues of sunset.

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