Anchor Detroit

Adaptive reuse of 1940s education facility turned mixed-use community hub in the heart of Detroit.

Black background with white text indicating a 65,000 square foot space, accompanied by a simple line drawing of a square with axes.
Map marker icon next to the text 'Detroit, Michigan' on a black background.

Opportunity

Detroit’s community needed a commercial architecture solution that could deliver a modern hub without compromising on the existing building’s historic soul.

Approach

DAC led a phased commercial architecture strategy that worked with the existing structure, not against it. Phase one brought a new circulation tower, elevator, formal entry, and a $600,000 re-roofing package. A thorough site analysis informed the decision to relocate parking to the rear, protecting the historic front entry. Our master planning approach and pro bono development consultation supported the client through site selection alongside Life Remodeled.

Impact

Phase two will add 20,000 square feet of trades training space, turning a landmark into a launchpad. This community-centered design will take the shape of a public innovation hub.


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Architecture

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Site Selection

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Construction Documentation

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Contract Administration

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Development Consultation

- Architecture - Site Selection - Construction Documentation - Contract Administration - Development Consultation

A modern building with a colorful mural on the front, parking lot with cars and people walking or talking outside, and a cloudy sky.
An aerial view of a modern school campus surrounded by trees and parking lots, with several people walking on sidewalks and the front entrance of the school.
People in a modern office reception area with a colorful mural on the wall, a front desk with a staff member working on a computer, and several visitors standing and talking.