A PLACE WITH NO NAME | establishing an urban identity

Page 22

A PLACE WITH NO NAME

ESTABLISHING AN URBAN IDENTITY

SOME MIGHT SAY THAT A PLACE IS DEFINED BY ITS CHARACTERISTICS, SUCH AS ITS LOCATION OR THE NATURAL FEATURES OF ITS LANDSCAPE. OTHERS MIGHT SAY THAT A PLACE IS DEFINED BY ITS HISTORY, OR THE CULTURE AND TRADITIONS OF ITS INHABITANTS.

University of Detroit Mercy | School of Architecture

Arch 2100 Section 03

Special Topics Studio - Urban Design

Fall 2022 Semester

Professor Mikolaj Gomolka

Dani Bogdanovic

Sofia D’Arienzo

Mahmmoud Eljammali

Bushra Fawaz

Andrew Gainariu

Sidny Hessem

Spencer Jovanovski

Vishmith Kumarasinghe

Jake Lampi

Ryan Lemke

Kayla Moser

Giovanni Zora

mikolaj gomolka

FOREWORD

As architects, we have not only an honor, but also a duty to shape space in a way that is responsible and aimed at improving people’s quality of life. However, simple pragmatism often leads to the perpetuation of the status quo or minor changes. It is our duty to dream. To dream of better solutions, beyond the limits of what we know and are accustomed to. Detroit was founded built on people’s dreams. Unfortunately, as a result of a number of processes, the city went through a difficult time for itself, which took its toll on the quality of the space. However, the spirit of the city has never been broken, and thanks to the ingenuity and creativity of residents, many spaces have been developed in innovative ways, blazing a trail for other metropolises. Recent years have seen major investments, at least

some of which are set to redefine the concept of public space. Together with students, we considered how one of the most important, the Joe Louis Greenway, could serve as an activating factor for its entire neighborhood. The work is a collective vision of 12 students, developed in detail by smaller teams. Using the potential of both grassroots initiatives and major public investments, we decided to start dreaming again. The project we are honored to present to you is the realization of our shared dream of a city centered on its residents, where everyone has the right to feel at home and everyone can co-create the community through participation in the use of public space. We invite you to read on and to dream together not only for a better future, but also for a better present.

PREFACE

The students of studio 202 collectivity came together under the supervision of professor Mikolaj Gomólka to create an urban design revamp of a site northwest of downtown Detroit. Before beginning our endeavors to redesign this desolate area, we spent weeks researching the given region and demographics via maps, newspapers, satellite views, articles, personal accounts, and multiple site visits. Once we felt comfortable enough with the site and the context around it, we then configured as a group to

discuss the purpose of our design implementations. The creation of these newly proposed and developed space and buildings will bring a sense of community that the residents have so longed-for. After countless hours of collaborative efforts our book’s genesis sought out to shed light upon a promising neighborhood revitalization. This book documents our process and highlights the changes we have made in order to make a better community for the people within the vicinity of the affected developments.

CONTENTS

background information and context

Page 14

Joe Louis Greenway Literature

Page 20

Site Overview

Page 22

History

02

EXISTING

current site conditions

Page 30

Transportation Map

Page 32

Services Map

Page 34

Vegetation Map

Page 36

Vacancy Map

Page 38

Zoning Map

Page 40

Urban Composition

Page 42

Existing Site Plan

01 INTRODUCTION

changes made to the original site

Page 46

Project Goals and Concepts

Page 48

Transportation Map

Page 50

Green and Public Spaces

Page 52

Zoning Map

Page 54

Urban Composition

Page 56

Master Plan

GROUP PLOTS

collaborative work done by partners of two or four

Page 60 Plot I

Page 78 Plot II

Page 96 Plot III

Page 120 Plot IV

Page 140

Plot V

Page 156

Master Plan

photography and notes

Page 160

Physical Model

Page 172

Plenary Sessions

03
PROPOSED
04
05 DOCUMENTATION

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION \ STUDIO BOOK

INTRODUCTION

GREENWAY LITERATURE SITE OVERVIEW HISTORY

JOE LOUIS GREENWAY

A greenway is a strip of undeveloped land near an urban area, set aside for recreational use or environmental protection. This definition describes what the city of Detroit plans on doing with their 27.5 mile long undeveloped strip of land. Formally known as the Joe Louis Greenway, this recreational pathway is determined to unify Detroit’s neighborhoods, people, and parks. The greenway is named after the late boxer, Joe Louis who got his start in Detroit in the 1930s and later became world heavyweight champion whilst breaking color barriers and bringing people together. It is an appropriate honor as that is what the Greenway will aim to do as well. The city of Detroit strives to honor Joe Louis by providing equitable spaces through arts, programming, and economic opportunities for all demographics. Being over just a marathon distance long, the greenway will have plenty of opportunities to connect parks and neighborhoods across the city, thus allowing residents to travel safely and comfortably from McNichols to the

riverfront through a combination of new trails, on-street protected bike lanes, and various links to existing trails like the Dequindre Cut and the RiverWalk. The ability of the greenway to include cities such as Dearborn, Hamtramck, and Highland Park and link them to larger trail systems

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INTRODUCTION \ STUDIO BOOK

the beginning construction of the joe

that crisscross the entire state as well as pass-through five council districts makes the greenway special. According to the official Joe Louis Greenway website, detroitgreenways.org, Mayor Mike Duggan has committed $20 million to build the first phase of the greenway, which spans 2.8 miles from

greenway just off of joy road | photo:

Warren Street to Fullerton Avenue, and is currently being constructed as seen in the image above. The schedule for this phase is to be completed in the early to mid 2023. An additional $40 million has been pledged by the Wilson Foundation for regional trail construction, which includes the Joe Louis Greenway.

15
louis kayla moser

A trail, separated from traffic, suitable for walking, jogging, biking, and even skating, winding through various Detroit neighborhoods forming a nearly 30 mile long ring interlock communities with each other. Imagine infants in parks with their parents, groups of children playing together, the elderly taking a stroll just outside their home on a beautifully executed greenway—this is what planners of the Joe Louis Greenway invision. A vision that dates all the way back to 2007 the greenway is officially coming to fruition thanks to the initial lump sum by the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation that awarded $2 million to the City of Detroit to develop a framework plan and construction drawings for the project in 2017. However, the concept of the greenway began with the Friends of the Inner Circle Greenway in 2007 and became part of the Detroit Greenway

coalition Network Vision in 2009. Using other existing trails and plans, the Coalition modified the routing, advocated for its development, and worked closely with the city of Detroit. In 2017, Mayor Mike Duggan announced plans to rename the Inner Circle Greenway after legendary boxer and Detroiter, Joseph Louis Barrow, also known as Joe Louis. The City of Detroit announced in March of 2019 that the SmithGroup team was selected for the project. An advisory council has also been created, comprised of community members from each Detroit City Council Districts impacted by the route. It still remains under construction in certain areas while the city of Detroit is planning to finalize all design changes with the help of influence from the community by the end of 2022, but may get pushed back a few months further. As stated, community input was an

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The Joe Louis Greenway is collective journey towards a better tomorrow
INTRODUCTION \ STUDIO BOOK
“Detroit’s neighborhoods are the heart of our City.” -
Mayor Mike
Duggan

important factor when the City of Detroit put together a framework plan for the process. A quote via Detroit Greenways Coalition states, “the greenway must reflect the needs and desires of the local communities through which it passes.” The intent behind starting at this location for phase one is to combat the high vacancy neighborhoods and illegal dumping that occurs throughout the site. The objective is to provide businesses, development opportunities, build on strong community partnerships, and clean up these blight, contaminated areas. City planners see this as an opportunity to bring additional investment and attention to the neighborhoods in need. Based on the State of Michigan’s

website, michigan.gov, the City of Detroit is acquiring 7.5 miles of abandoned Conrail railroad property using grants from Michigan Michigan’s Natural Resources Trust Fund and MDOT. This railroad property, formerly the Detroit Terminal Railroad will become the northern and western part of the Joe Louis Greenway loop, making this similar to the Dequindre Cut loop because of these 7.5 miles becoming a nonmotorized greenway. Not only is the goal to provide entertainment and amenities to all age ranges, but it also adds affordable mobility options to get to jobs, education, and transit. The Joe Louis Greenway will also help support neighborhood development and re-purpose vacant land, which this area so desperately needs.

The average cost per mile is expected to just under $8 million

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crawler loader stopped in the process of the greenway | photo: mikolaj gomolka

Although the overall construction of the entire greenway is stated to be completed in the next 5 to 10 years, the anticipation for the whole of the greenway to be complete and usable is higher than ever. Not only are residents of Detroit and nearby neighborhoods looking forward to freely using the recreational

pathway, but the greater part of Metro Detroiters are just as excited to take a trip down to Detroit and take a joy ride while using the vast amenities provided along the greenway. When finished, the greenway will provide a place for people of all abilities to safely walk, bike, play, and run while connecting neighborhoods,

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cyclists using an alternate road as a path for the current greenway
INTRODUCTION \ STUDIO BOOK

parks, schools, jobs, historic sites, commercial corridors, and public transit. With community members playing a huge role in providing input on the goals of the greenway they identified six themes that would guide the vision of the Joe Louis Greenway. These themes include environmental sustainability, equitable growth, historical

and cultural significance, bike and pedestrian infrastructure safety, health and fitness, and connectivity combined with accessibility. The greenway has tremendous potential to enhance the urban environment, improving the accessibility in the City of Detroit making it more beautiful and enjoyable altogether.

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greenway that is filled with rubbish and lined with parked semi trucks | photo: dani bogdanovic

SITE OVERVIEW

The project title: A Place with No Name, gets its origin from being in-between six different communities and not having its own defined borders. The six communities it is composed of, include Barton-McFarland, Grand River I-96, Littlefield, Oakman Boulevard, Nardin Park, and the Midwest-Tireman Community. Each with their own background and little niches, this gives our site a unique perspective on the services and opportunities provided. Starting with the community that consumes the largest portion of our site; the Midwest community is comprised of low-density neighborhoods. It faces challenges of the potential opportunities in future development because of its location, and past industrial assemblage. The BartonMcFarland area is the second largest community around our site. This community is a close-knit community with a focus on neighbor support and camaraderie. The majority of residents are property owners, which makes a difference in the stability of the neighborhood.

Elementary-Middle School and Drew Transition Center are notable schools in the neighborhood and are two of the only educational institutions in their vicinity. The implementation of the Greenway will connect the schools to the site giving students amenities they currently lack and allowing students to feel more engaged with other communities by creating a strong urban identity. The site that consumes the top portion of our site north of Grand River Avenue is the Oakman Boulevard Community. The area gets its name from master land developer and Realtor Robert Oakman. As the automobile industry grew, there weren’t many roads for the vehicles to travel safely, so Oakman proposed a road that was similar to Grand Boulevard, hence where the name Oakman Boulevard originates from. Mr. Oakman envisioned a road that would travel in a circle so drivers—and now bikers—could enjoy views of the city and beautiful homes. Overall each site plays an integral role in the revitalization of a central urban identity that will unite the six communities.

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INTRODUCTION \ STUDIO BOOK
21
aerial view of the site framed by joy road and fullerton street

HISTORY

The site is situated around multiple communities with rich history. The neighborhoods within these communities once flourished with a vast shopping district centered at Grand River Avenue and Oakman Boulevard. As a result of racial tensions that cumulated in violent riots, industrial restructuring, the loss of thousands of jobs in the automobile industry, and rapid suburbanization in the middle of the 20th century, Detroit began to rapidly contract. The city’s population peaked at 1.85 million in 1950 and by 1970, it had dropped to 1.51 million. In this chapter you learn about the historical context of Detroit in sequential order,

and will notice major changes that highlight the deterioration that takes place in the infrastructure.

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bottom image: a view along grand river near oakman of federal’s and john f. ivory storage co., the tallest building in our site. middle image: photographed in 1977, along grand river looking towards oakman. top image: the beverly theater, on grand river, designed by charles agree, opened in1937, and closed in 1964. | source: abandoned online
INTRODUCTION \ STUDIO BOOK
23 1957 2001 2022

Chronological Timeline

Detroit./

The founding of Detroit Territory of Michigan is Created

On July 24, Antoine De La Month Cadillac establishes settlement in Detroit

A bill is passed in Washington D.C. that creates the Michigan territory, with Detroit as its capital. A few months later Detroit is completely destroyed by fire

1807./

The Rebuilding of Detroit Occurs

Shortly after the fire, Michigan’s first chief justice, Judge Woodward was designated as the central figure involved with the reestablishment of the city. After careful consideration, Woodward chose to adopt a hub-and-spoke design in order to totally reconstruct the city of Detroit with the help of architect and civil engineer, Pierre Charles L’Enfant who was a major planner in the Washington D.C. plan

1909./

1956./

Boom in the Ford Motor Company Last Scheduled Streetcars

Detroiters demanded better roads due to cars becoming more prevalent the Wayne County Road Commission answered the city’s demands and laid the first stretch of concrete high way in the nation. This monumental road, still apart of present-day Detroit, is located on Woodward Ave between 6 and 7 Mile road. A couple years later Detroit is considered the automobile capital of the world.

The last regularly scheduled streetcar operated its final run in Detroit, appropriately on Woodward Avenue. The Woodward line dated back to 1863.

1967./

12th Street Detroit Riot

What started as a police raid on illegal after hours at a drinking club soon escalated into a full scale riot. To stop the violence, over 9,000 members of the U.S. National Guard were deployed to Michigan.

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1701./ 1805./
aerial image of downtown Detroit | source: project geo msu michigan as a territory | source: university of wisconsin milwaukee library last day of streetcars in detroit parade | source: detroit historical society
INTRODUCTION \ STUDIO BOOK
debris and an armed man in front of a drug store | source: life

Michigan’s First Railroad Michigan is Admitted to the Union 1833./ 1837./

The first railroad was the horse-drawn Erie and Kalamazoo. As business continued to prosper from the use of railroads, Ford Motor Company was created.

The state constitution forebode slavery and Detroit became an important stop on the underground railroad which helped slaves escape slavery from the south

1870./

Population Growth

Michigan’s population is 1,054,670 at this time and Detroit’s population grows to 79,577.

1989./

2013./

Oakman Boulevard Community Detroit Files for Bankruptcy

The neighborhood earned a spot on the Detroit Local Historic District list. The Oakman Blvd. community takes its name from master land developer and realtor Robert Oakman. As the automobile industry grew, there weren’t many roads for the vehicles to travel safely, so Mr. Oakman proposed a road that was similar to Grand Boulevard.

Detroit filed for the largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S. history. The city’s debt hovered around $18 billion. Detroit and its citizens were plunged into an intense debate about how to help the city recover.

2022./

Revitalization of Detroit

Detroit Invested $200 million on the Joe Louis Greenway project, a sprawling pedestrian and bike path loop that will circle the city when it’s complete. The Greenway’s framework plan lays out a vision to provide connected, equitable, and engaging spaces throughout Detroit and the region - where people and neighborhoods will find opportunities for empowerment, unification, and healing.

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andew jackson signed the order making michigan the 26th state | source: michigan state capitol population density map | source: detroitography aerial view of oakmand blvd via watercoloring | source: detroit historical society aerial view of detroit | source: abc news
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2022: north section of the site and top view of I-96 | source: google earth 1997: north section of the site and top view of I-96 | source: detroit coalitions 1967: north section of the site and prior to I-96 construction | source: detroit coalitions 2022: pharmacy on the corner of oakman and grand river | photo: dani bogdanovic 2008: pharmacy on the corner of oakman and grand river | source: google street maps
INTRODUCTION \ STUDIO BOOK
1976: drug store formally known as cunninghams | photo: john margolies
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2022: at the corner of plymouth rd and northlawn ave | source: google street maps 2022: italian style home on oakman boulevard listed for sale | source: realtor 2009: at the corner of plymouth rd and northlawn ave | source: google street maps 2008: italian style home on oakman boulevard | source: google street maps 1935: boarding passengers at northlawn avenue | source: detroit transit history 1976: italian style home on oakman boulevard | source: detroit free press

EXISTING

EXISTING \ STUDIO BOOK

TRANSPORTATION MAP

SERVICES MAP

VEGETATION MAP

VACANCY MAP

ZONING MAP

URBAN COMPOSITION

EXISTING SITE PLAN

TRANSPORTATION

The existing transportation on the site is primarily consisted of vehicle traffic. There are three bus existing bus routes: one that comes from downtown Detroit along Grand River, one that runs along Oakman, and one that runs along Plymouth then transitions to Elmhurst. The bus routes are unreliable and lack bus stop

infrastructure. The site completely lacks walkability, particularly in the industrial zones that are not meant to be entered. Adequate sidewalks and bike lanes are simply not present. The Joe Louis Greenway will be the primary mode of pedestrian travel through the site, but still lacks connection to the surrounding context.

green way

bus route bus stop

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EXISTING \ STUDIO BOOK
KEY
0 100 500 1000 2000ft N
31 FULLERTON AVENUE EWALD CIRCLE OHIO AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. MENDOTA AVE. CORTLAND AVENUE WYOMING AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. INDIANAA AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. CHICAGO AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. AMERICAN AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. STOEPEL AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. BURNETTE AVE. CEDARLAWN AVENUE AURORA AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE MAPLELAWN AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE CROCUSLAWN AVENUE VIOLETLAWN AVENUE MORELY AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE AURORA AVENUE PLYMOUTH AVENUE TUXEDO AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. ELMHURST AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. OHIO AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY WESTFIELD AVE. BURNETTE AVE. MONICA AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. JOY ROAD OAKMAN BOULEVARD OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. ILENE AVE. WASHBURN AVE. WYOMING AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. VAN BUREN AVE. MACKENZIE AVE. RAILROAD RAILROAD RAILROAD WYOMING AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. ALPINE AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. LINSDALE AVE. ALASKA AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. WEBB AVE. BURLINGAME BURLINGAME ELMHURST STEARNS WELTO AVE. LIPTO AVE. ELMUHURSTAVE. WOODSIDE AVE. RIDGEWOOD AVE. WOODSIDEA AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. ILENE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. GRIGGS AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. EWALD CIRCLE OAKMAN BOULEVARD LIVERNOIS AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY

The only services on the site are businesses or religious institution. In the surrounding context medical, leisure, food and markets, and offices lack. Educational opportunities hold a moderate presence. The site itself is in dire need of many new services in order for it to become a functioning community, and also holds potential to propose

services that can serve a much great context than just the site itself. With the ample industrial land, retail, leisure, and civic opportunities can help create a stronger sense of completeness for the surrounding communities. Additional medical, food, and government services will be placed throughout to better serve the site and its context.

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EXISTING \ STUDIO BOOK medical business religious leisure food and market gas station educational offices government services
SERVICES
N KEY 0 100 500 1000 2000ft
33 FULLERTON AVENUE EWALD CIRCLE OHIO AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CORTLAND AVENUE WYOMING AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. INDIANAA AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. OHIO AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. AMERICAN AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. STOEPEL AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. BURNETTE AVE. CEDARLAWN AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE AURORA AVENUE PLYMOUTH AVENUE ELMHURST TUXEDO AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. ELMHURST AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. OHIO AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY WESTFIELD AVE. BURNETTE AVE. MONICA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. ALPINE AVE. JOY ROAD OAKMAN BOULEVARD OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. ILENE AVE. WASHBURN AVE. WYOMING AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. VAN BUREN AVE. MACKENZIE AVE. RAILROAD RAILROAD RAILROAD WYOMING AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. ALPINE AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. LINSDALE AVE. DUNDEE AVE. WEST GRANDRIVERAVE. TUXEDO AVE. WEBB AVE. BURLINGAME BURLINGAME CRANSHAW ELMHURST AVE. STEARNS COLLINGWOOD AVE. WELTO AVE. LIPTO AVE. COLLINGWOODAVE. ELMUHURSTAVE. HERBERT AVE. YOSEMITE AVE. DALRYMPLE AVE. WOODSIDE AVE. RIDGEWOOD AVE. GREENWAY AVE. UNDERWOOD AVE. WHITEFIELD AVE. HILLSBORO BELLETERRE AVE. NARDIN PARK DRIVE WOODSIDEA AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. INDIANAA AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. ILENE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. GRIGGS AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. EWALD CIRCLE OAKMAN BOULEVARD LIVERNOIS AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY

VEGETATION

Vegetation on the site is scarce due to its industrial nature. The majority of the vegetation is located in the back of residential lots, and is typically overgrown. Any vegetation in the industrial area is most likely a result of nature reclaiming its presence in abandoned buildings and parking lots. Intentional green spaces on the site are nearly non existent,

except near schools. There is lots of opportunity for vegetation to be included in the site, and many areas where letting nature take its course is likely the best practice to promote greenery. There is also quite a bit of room to develop green spaces, and specifically a connective network of green spaces due to the amount of vacant lots.

34
EXISTING \ STUDIO BOOK vegetation
green space
N KEY 0 100 500 1000 2000ft
35

VACANCY

As a whole, Detroit experiences enormous amounts of vacancy. Our site proves no different, with nearly 75% of the site being vacant. Industry, businesses, and residences are all affected by this vacancy, and quite a few buildings are in need of demolition. Of the existing buildings, the predominant occupancy is industrial. A critical issue

will be preserving the occupied industry throughout a site that borders commercial and residential areas. Employing adaptive reuse of vacant buildings that do not need to be demolished will also be an important task to consider during. With the large amount of vacancy, there does prove many flexible opportunities for improvement.

36
EXISTING \ STUDIO BOOK occupied vacant
N KEY 0 100 500 1000 2000ft
37 FULLERTON AVENUE EWALD CIRCLE OHIO AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. CORTLAND AVENUE WYOMING AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. INDIANAA AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. OAKMAN BOULVARD PARIE AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. AMERICAN AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. STOEPEL AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. BURNETTE AVE. CEDARLAWN AVENUE AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE MAPLELAWN AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE CROCUSLAWN AVENUE VIOLETLAWN AVENUE MORELY AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE AURORA AVENUE PLYMOUTH AVENUE TUXEDO AVE. WEST CHICAGO WESTFIELD AVE. ELMHURST AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. OHIO AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY WESTFIELD AVE. BURNETTE AVE. MONICA AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. JOY OAKMAN BOULEVARD OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. ILENE AVE. WASHBURN AVE. WYOMING AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. VAN BUREN AVE. MACKENZIE AVE. RAILROAD RAILROAD RAILROAD WYOMING AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. ALPINE AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. LINSDALE AVE. ALASKA AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. WEBB AVE. BURLINGAME BURLINGAME ELMHURST AVE. STEARNS WELTO AVE. LIPTO AVE. ELMUHURSTAVE. WOODSIDE AVE. RIDGEWOOD AVE. WOODSIDEA AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. ILENE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. GRIGGS AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. EWALD CIRCLE OAKMAN BOULEVARD LIVERNOIS AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY M3 M3 M3 M3 M3 B4 B4 B4 B4 B4 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2

ZONING

The zoning for the site is almost all industrial, with a mix from light to heavy industrial buildings incorporated throughout. The site borders residential zoning, creating an unpleasant community for residents. A fine line is created as industry must remain in the area due

to its strong history, presence, and identity , but it should not negatively affect the lives of those in the surrounding context. Strategically reorganizing to create more diverse more considerate zoning is an important step forward for long term success of the site.

R1 single-family residential district

B4 general business district

M3 general industrial district

P2 institutional

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EXISTING \ STUDIO BOOK
N KEY 0 100 500 1000 2000ft
39 M3 FULLERTON EWALD CIRCLE OHIO AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. MENDOTA AVE. CORTLAND AVENUE WYOMING AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. INDIANAA AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. AMERICAN AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. STOEPEL AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. BURNETTE AVE. CEDARLAWN AVENUE AURORA AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE MAPLELAWN AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE CROCUSLAWN AVENUE VIOLETLAWN AVENUE MORELY AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE AURORA AVENUE PLYMOUTH AVENUE TUXEDO AVE. CHICAGO AVE. WESTFIELD ELMHURST AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. OHIO AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY WESTFIELD AVE. BURNETTE AVE. MONICA AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. JOY OAKMAN BOULEVARD OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. ILENE AVE. WASHBURN AVE. WYOMING AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. VAN BUREN AVE. MACKENZIE AVE. RAILROAD RAILROAD RAILROAD WYOMING AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. ALPINE AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. LINSDALE AVE. ALASKA GRANDRIVERAVE. AVE. BURLINGAME BURLINGAME ELMHURST STEARNS WELTO AVE. LIPTO AVE. ELMUHURSTAVE. WOODSIDE AVE. RIDGEWOOD AVE. WOODSIDEA AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. ILENE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. GRIGGS AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. EWALD CIRCLE OAKMAN BOULEVARD LIVERNOIS AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY M3 M3 M3 M3 M3 B4 B4 B4 B4 B4 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2

URBAN COMPOSITION

The urban composition of the site is largely centered on the node created by the intersection of Grand River and Oakman. The site’s landmark at 10911 Grand River is located at the heart of the node and is visibly the tallest building at only 108 feet. The major edges of the site are the

barriers created by the I96 Highway, the business facades along Oakman, and the railway dividing the site. Multiple districts intersect the site as well, creating a diverse neighborhood. The major paths of Grand River, Oakman, and I96 play important roles in shaping the sites composition.

KEY

nodes

edges paths

landmark districts

40
EXISTING \ STUDIO BOOK
N
0 100 500 1000 2000ft
41

EXISTING SITE PLAN

The existing contextual map proves how poorly planned this space is. The once high intensity industrial area, is now scarce of the former industry, thus making the zoning outdated. The vacancy of the area is also very high which gives a leaves residents with a rundown feel to the entire site.

The greenery goes hand in hand with poor zoning and abundant vacancy. There is little to no vegetation in the heart of the site. The few amounts of green spaces that exist are more likely than not to be overgrown and unkempt. All of these categories plead for a refresh.

42 EXISTING \ STUDIO BOOK green way bus route vacant
N KEY 0 100 500 1000 2000ft
R1 single-family residential district B4 general business district M3 general industrial district P2 institutional
43 M3 FULLERTON AVENUE EWALD CIRCLE OHIO AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. CORTLAND AVENUE WYOMING AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. INDIANAA AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. AMERICAN AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. STOEPEL AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. BURNETTE AVE. CEDARLAWN AVENUE AURORA AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE MAPLELAWN AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE CROCUSLAWN AVENUE VIOLETLAWN AVENUE MORELY AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE AURORA AVENUE PLYMOUTH AVENUE TUXEDO AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. ELMHURST AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. OHIO AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY WESTFIELD AVE. BURNETTE AVE. MONICA AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. ROAD OAKMAN BOULEVARD OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. ILENE AVE. WASHBURN AVE. WYOMING AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. VAN BUREN AVE. MACKENZIE AVE. RAILROAD RAILROAD RAILROAD WYOMING AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. ALPINE AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. LINSDALE AVE. ALASKA AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. WEBB AVE. BURLINGAME BURLINGAME ELMHURST AVE. STEARNS WELTO AVE. LIPTO ELMUHURSTAVE. WOODSIDE AVE. RIDGEWOOD AVE. WOODSIDEA AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. ILENE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. GRIGGS AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. EWALD CIRCLE OAKMAN BOULEVARD LIVERNOIS AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY M3 M3 M3 M3 M3 B4 B4 B4 B4 B4 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2

PROPOSED

PROPOSED \ STUDIO BOOK

PROPOSED

PROJECT GOALS AND CONCEPTS

TRANSPORTATION MAP

GREEN AND

PUBLIC SPACE

ZONING MAP

URBAN

COMPOSITION

MASTER PLAN

PROJECT GOALS AND CONCEPTS

After becoming familiar with the site and its space, it was clear it lacked a sense of place and was in need of creative redevelopment due to its many obstacles and potentials. Our project goals aim to work toward an establishment of a place throughout the entirety of the site and the context beyond. Our first goal, revolving around the Joe Louis Greenway, is to increase the walkability and pedestrian accessibility of the site. A linear green park builds off of the Greenway and runs throughout the site from North to South. A strategic network of linear parks accompanies the Greenway and creates its transverse axis. In addition, vehicle roads will be redesigned in a variety of ways to promote walkability. Both Oakman and Grand River will be redesigned to integrate more bike lanes and slow down vehicle traffic. A number of roads will become pedestrian roads with emergency axis only. Paths will be integrated throughout the entire site to further develop its entirety. Our next major goal was preservation the site, specifically with

the existing buildings. A large number of industrial buildings are planned to remain and become part of a diverse landscape while maintaining identity. Many residential areas on the sight have an abundance of uninhabitable single-family residences that will be replaced with more equitable opportunities. Affordable housing projects and live work incentives intend to build on a variety of housing types to attract all types of demographics. As a combination of all goals, a greater underlying issue lies in providing identity to the site. Currently, the site lacks an identity and strong community. We hope reinvigorating the site’s retail history and providing adequate resources to the surrounding community will work to help foster this missing sense of identity. Thus, identity becomes our determining factor in transforming a space into a place. By designing spaces for the community to gather while respecting the current use, we intend to let the residents of the area to begin to define their own identity and inspire a place.

46 PROPOSED \ STUDIO BOOK
47 N

GREEN & PUBLIC SPACE

The green space throughout the site is commanded by the 200 foot wide Greenbelt that runs throughout the site. A supportive series of additional green spaces and a connective network of parks integrates the Greenbelt with the surrounding context and provides attainability. Intentional public spaces follow the Greenbelt and Greenway and are

also very attainable. Key green and public spaces include a market, a gateway park on a proposed highway overpass, and a large civic plaza. The Greenbelt includes a network of bio-swales that provide rainwater retention for the entire site and support the public space by adding more natural features that are currently lacking in the landscape.

48
PROPOSED \ STUDIO BOOK
green
public
water
green way
space
space
N KEY 0 100 500 1000 2000ft
49

TRANSPORTATION

The proposed transportation brings more mass transport infrastructure and a large surplus of pedestrian walkways. The bus routes are slightly rearranged to feed into a larger bus terminal at the intersection of Oakman and Grand River, promoting the node and creating an intentional public space. Bus stops along Oakman have been updated to

shelters that feed directly to the adjacent greenway. Multiple roads throughout the site have been re-purposed to large pedestrian walkways that still maintain emergency access. Larger transverse pedestrian walkways provide connection throughout the site, and feed into the Greenway while being supported by many paths.

50
green way bus route tram pedestrian roads paths bus stops
N PROPOSED \ STUDIO BOOK KEY 0 100 500 1000 2000ft
51 FULLERTON AVENUE EWALD CIRCLE OHIO AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. CORTLAND AVENUE WYOMING AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. INDIANAA AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. WEST CHICAGO GRANDRIVERAVE. AMERICAN AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. STOEPEL AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. BURNETTE AVE. CEDARLAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE MAPLELAWN AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE CROCUSLAWN AVENUE VIOLETLAWN AVENUE MORELY AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE AURORA AVENUE PLYMOUTH AVENUE TUXEDO AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. ELMHURST AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. OHIO AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY WESTFIELD AVE. BURNETTE AVE. MONICA AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. JOY ROAD OAKMAN BOULEVARD OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. ILENE AVE. WASHBURN AVE. WYOMING AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. VAN BUREN AVE. MACKENZIE AVE. RAILROAD RAILROAD RAILROAD WYOMING AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. ALPINE AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. LINSDALE AVE. ALASKA AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. WEBB AVE. BURLINGAME BURLINGAME ELMHURST AVE. STEARNS WELTO AVE. LIPTO AVE. ELMUHURSTAVE. HERBERT AVE. WOODSIDE AVE. RIDGEWOOD AVE. WOODSIDEA AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. GRIGGS AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. EWALD CIRCLE OAKMAN BOULEVARD LIVERNOIS AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY

ZONING

The proposed zoning restructures the site to create a larger diversity of building typologies and equitable access throughout. Rather than creating large block zoning, the zoning has been tailored to allow for commercial and residential to blend within the

industrial context. The largest change includes adding public center and parks and recreation districts throughout. The newly created special development district allows for maximum flexibility between business and residential opportunity.

52
R1 single-family residential district B3 shopping district B4 general business district M3 general industrial district P1 open parking district PC public center district PR parks and recreation district SD2 special development district P2 institutional
N PROPOSED \ STUDIO BOOK KEY 0 100 500 1000 2000ft
53 FULLERTON AVENUE EWALD CIRCLE OHIO AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. MENDOTA AVE. CORTLAND AVENUE WYOMING AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. INDIANAA AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. AMERICAN AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. STOEPEL AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. BURNETTE AVE. CEDARLAWN AVENUE AURORA AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE MAPLELAWN AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE CROCUSLAWN AVENUE VIOLETLAWN AVENUE MORELY AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE AURORA AVENUE PLYMOUTH AVENUE TUXEDO WEST CHICAGO AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. ELMHURST AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. OHIO AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY WESTFIELD AVE. BURNETTE AVE. MONICA AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. JOY ROAD OAKMAN BOULEVARD OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. ILENE AVE. WASHBURN AVE. WYOMING AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. VAN BUREN AVE. MACKENZIE AVE. RAILROAD RAILROAD RAILROAD WYOMING AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. ALPINE AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. LINSDALE AVE. ALASKA AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. WEBB AVE. BURLINGAME BURLINGAME ELMHURST AVE. STEARNS WELTO AVE. LIPTO ELMUHURSTAVE. HERBERT WOODSIDE AVE. RIDGEWOOD AVE. WOODSIDEA AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. ILENE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. GRIGGS AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. EWALD CIRCLE OAKMAN BOULEVARD LIVERNOIS AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY M3 B4 B4 B4 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 M3 SD2 B3 B3 B3 B3 PC R1 R1 PC R1 B4 PR B4 PR PR B3 B3 P1 PR PR PR

URBAN COMPOSITION

The urban composition is made up of various elements that create interesting nodes. A major one for example is the intersection at Oakman and Grand River. It has been reinvigorated with retail shops, civic buildings, and housing. The framework of the area is based around dilapidated neighborhoods that have been

reintegrated with the site to create a sense of community. Some edges of the site are constrained with challenging barriers such as the freeway of I-96 and the overpowering industrial district pushing against neighborhoods. The newly zoned areas and added vegetation combat this and enhances the living condition.

54
N PROPOSED \ STUDIO BOOK nodes edges paths landmark districts KEY 0 100 500 1000 2000ft
55

MASTER PLAN

The final master plan denotes a cohesive design of the various plots that unifies an overall essence of togetherness and integrates all neighborhoods with each other. Re-zoning played a large factor in this because of the complex nature in the previous zoning ordnance. In addition, a greenbelt

was implemented in the design to aid in the increase of bikers and decrease the use of vehicles. The accommodation of the residents was also essential to our master plan in order to give them a sense of community that they so deserve. This refresh will be the next step toward becoming a place.

56 greenway bus route vacant
N PROPOSED \ STUDIO BOOK KEY 0 100 500 1000 2000ft
R1 single-family residential district B4 general business district M3 general industrial district P2 institutional
57 FULLERTON AVENUE EWALD CIRCLE OHIO AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. CORTLAND AVENUE WYOMING AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. INDIANAA AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. OAKMAN BOULVARD PARIE AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. AMERICAN AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. STOEPEL AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. BURNETTE AVE. CEDARLAWN AVENUE AVENUE AVENUE AVENUE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE CROCUSLAWN AVENUE VIOLETLAWN AVENUE AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE AURORA AVENUE PLYMOUTH AVENUE BURLINGAME ELMHURST TUXEDO AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. ELMHURST AVE. ROSALAWN NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. OHIO AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY WESTFIELD AVE. BURNETTE AVE. MONICA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. ALPINE AVE. JOY ROAD OAKMAN BOULEVARD OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. ILENE AVE. WASHBURN AVE. WYOMING AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. VAN BUREN AVE. MACKENZIE AVE. RAILROAD RAILROAD RAILROAD WYOMING AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. ALPINE AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. OAKMAN BLVD. LIVERNOIS AVE. LINSDALE AVE. ALASKA AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. TUXEDO AVE. BURLINGAME WELTO AVE. LIPTO AVE. COLLINGWOODAVE. ELMUHURSTAVE. HERBERT AVE. DALRYMPLE AVE. BELLETERRE AVE. NARDIN PARK DRIVE WOODSIDEA AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. INDIANAA AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. ILENE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. GRIGGS AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. EWALD CIRCLE OAKMAN BOULEVARD LIVERNOIS AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY LIVERNOIS AVE. M3 M3 M3 R5 SD2 B3 B3 B3 P1 PR PR PC PR B4 B4 B4 PR PR R1 R1 R1 PC PR R1 B4 B4 PR B4 PR PR

GROUP PLOTS

GROUP PLOTS \ STUDIO BOOK

PLOTS

I
II PLOT III PLOT IV PLOT V MASTER PLAN
PLOT
PLOT
60 SPENCER & VISHMITH \ STUDIO BOOK

PLOT I

SPENCER JOVANOVSKI & VISHMITH KUMARASINGHE

Upon dividing the site into plots with the project team, our group decided that we wished to redesign plot 1. This plot is located at the northern most section of the project site and more specifically lies north of Oakman Blvd. and south of Fullerton Ave. When analyzing plot 1, our group found that it could be divided into three clear zones which include residential to the west, commercial to the east, and large-scale retail/wholesale business in this middle. The condition and vacancy in these three zones varied and we immediately saw the issues with this plot. First, there was an aging residential area, bad condition housing and a scattered occupancy. Our goal for this area was to create a complex feel, adding different types of housing rather than simple filling the empty lots with more single-family houses. Second, in the retail/business as well as the commercial zone, most of the buildings were vacant but needed renovations to be brought to the level of a functional purpose.Our two overall goals for the redesign of this plot were preservation and community. We wanted to preserve and renovate what was possible. while also adding a few

new structures which we believe is the key to creating a positive environment throughout our plot. As a team, the occupied residential housing was kept and refurbished while the houses in poor condition were demolished. These were replaced with various types of new housing designs and small parks that connected the residential complex. In the middle of the plot is also where the path of the greenway ran through. This zone was repurposed to become a parks and recreation area which connected other adjacent project plots to become a greenbelt. This parks and recreation area gives the plot a sense of community and one large space rather than three separate ones, which was another one of our project goals; to unify the entirety of plot 1. The existing buildings were repurposed to fit the needs of the greenway and created a community sense with the neighboring zones. In the commercial area the buildings were preserved and new buildings were created which were surrounded by courtyards and public spaces. Lastly, our design focus was to improve the quality of life and create a space where anyone can enjoy their experience whether its live, work or play in our plot of the greenway.

61

existing axon: mixed use area consisting of residential, business, and commercial areas

62 SPENCER & VISHMITH \ STUDIO BOOK

site axon: developed mixed use area consisting of a semi-public housing complex, parks and recreational greenbelt, and revived commercial spaces

63
64 SPENCER & VISHMITH \ STUDIO BOOK
figure ground: proposed buildings were placed sporadically throughout the plot which replaced buildings that were demolished due to their poor condition or vacancy

In the retail/business as well as the commercial zone, most of the buildings were vacant but needed renovations to be brought to the level of a functional purpose. Our two overall goals for the redesign of this plot were preservation and community. We wanted to preserve and renovate

what was possible. While also adding a few new structures which we believe is the key to creating a positive environment throughout our plot. In the commercial area the buildings were preserved and new buildings were created which were surrounded by courtyards and public spaces.

65

Both green and public spaces were important to the plot’s concept. Pocket parks were placed between housing in residential areas allowing paths to run through them connecting the housing to the greenbelt and commercial areas.

Smaller areas of green space allow for people to come together as a community more often. Playgrounds and larger parks were considered as public space since many people can gather here for various types of activities.

66 SPENCER & VISHMITH \ STUDIO BOOK

The event space located on the greenbelt is a preserved paved area where pop up events can occur weekly or biweekly for the community to engage in local entertain or exchange of merchandise.

The pavilion also located on the greenbelt is a large public area which includes seating that provides shade and is a great place to rest. It is a prominent structure that the greenway runs through.

67
green way north cross section

Parks & Recreation

68 Site
Commercial Residential
&
\ STUDIO BOOK
SPENCER
VISHMITH
functions diagram

green way perspective section: the greenway can be used by all people whether they prefer to go at a slow or fast speed. it is divided into walking and biking lanes on either side with a median running in the middle.

69 5ft 5ft 5ft 5ft 10ft Walking Walking Biking Biking Median

The proposed housing that we developed in the residential area followed the goal to design a complex style block that featured single family houses, townhouse and an apartment building. These worked together to bring a community environment to a residential block that previously featured the

common single-family subdivision feel The design of the ground floor of the townhouses contained a simple plan that included a kitchen, living, dining room combo with a half bath and office space as well. This design was repeated throughout all town homes in the complex to keep the layout consistent.

70 SPENCER & VISHMITH \ STUDIO BOOK
block housing floor plan
71 perspective perspective
72 FULLERTON AVE. JEFFRIES FWY. CLOVERDALE ST. GREENLAWN AVE. ROSELAWN ST. CORTLAND ST. OAKMAN BLVD. Green Space Proposed Buildings Existing Buildings Greenway Path Proposed Paths Proposed Recreation Cortland St. Fullerton Ave. Jeffries Fwy. Cloverdale St. Greenlawn Ave. Roselawn St. Oakman Blvd. Green Space Proposed Buildings Existing Buildings Greenway Path Proposed Paths Proposed Recreation Restricted Roads Pedestrian Roadway Proposed Parking SPENCER & VISHMITH \ STUDIO BOOK
73 Paths/Walkways Greenway Path Mass Transport Restricted Roads Pedestrian Road Bus Stop Cortland St. Greenlawn Ave. Cloverdale St. Roselawn St. Je ries Fwy. Oakman Blvd. Fullerton Ave.
74 Preserved Areas Site Wholesale Store Event Space O ces Community Centre Hardware Store SPENCER & VISHMITH \ STUDIO BOOK preservation diagram

perspective: showing recreation activities

75
76 SPENCER & VISHMITH \ STUDIO BOOK site plan

sketch

quality of life and create a space where anyone can enjoy their experience whether its live, work or play in our plot of the greenway.

77
Overall, the goals of the greenway were met through implementing preservation, community, and recreation. Our design focus was to improve the process
78 DANI & BUSHRA \ STUDIO BOOK

PLOT II

DANI BOGDANOVIC AND BUSHRA FAWAZ

The urban composition of Plot two is composed of connective neighborhoods through an organic vegetated area integrating cultural and recreational structures. The park within the plot will offer play areas, walking paths, all connected by the Joe Louis greenway that runs along Oakman Blvd. and through the center of the site connecting to paths that lead to the neighborhoods and communities. The screens along the path act as a buffer from Jeffrey’s Road from plot two all the way to plot one, each spaced 6 ft from each other. The area offers a unique environment with an event space and seating, a tree canopy, public market, and a place for children to play. The organic vegetated

the site creates comfort and stays true to the origin of the area as it is a highly overgrown and industrial area. This vegetation wraps the event space that leads the visitors ’14 feet deep into the site creating access to the ground floor of the building above. This space creates opportunities for activities year-round, and it will be the perfect place to watch events that would take place while submersing yourselves in the vegetated steps that lead you to the space. Plot two’s focus on culture promotes activity and interaction within our site. Highlighting the identity of this plot while keeping a connection to the Greenway allows it to cater to a wide range of people and all can enjoy the opportunities it provides.

79
80 DANI & BUSHRA \ STUDIO BOOK
existing axon: image of existing conditions of plot 2
81
site axon: showing public spaces
82 EVENT SPACE MARKET SPACE
DANI & BUSHRA \ STUDIO BOOK
diagram
CHILDREN’S PARK BUFFER ALONG JEFFERYS
function

The screens act as a visual and noise buffer from Jeffrey’s Street and the I-96 with vegetation on the other side. It allows people to safely bike or walk along the street and still have access to cross with the 6 ft breaks between each screen.

The event space accommodates a variety of functions such as acting as a venue for a wedding or a theater. It could even be used for leisure on the days it is not occupied, and people can access the ground level of businesses that connect to the upper level.

83
84 DANI & BUSHRA \ STUDIO BOOK

people occupying the vegetated steps as they are getting ready for a performance, while others are enjoying the businesses that connect to the floor above.

85

The focus of the plot was towards pedestrians and bikers with access to cars where it is needed. Closing off car access from Grand River aside from parking l

spots continues the edge effect of the street as welas allowing the connection parks to exist throughout the neighborhoods that connects them to the greenway.

86 DANI & BUSHRA \ STUDIO BOOK
87 EWALD CIRCLE OHIO AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CORTLAND AVENUE KENTUCKY AVE. INDIANAA AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. AMERICAN AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. BEECHDALE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE AURORA AVENUE PLYMOUTH AVENUE TUXEDO AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY RAILROAD RAILROAD GRANDRIVERAVE. BURLINGAME ELMHURST NORTHLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. north south section circulation diagram

Allowing fourth nature to take over in certain areas like the market and including organic vegetation across our

plot links back to the identity of our site Many areas have been abandoned with nature beginning to take its course.

88 DANI & BUSHRA \ STUDIO BOOK
89 COMMUNITYGREENHOUSE EVENT SPACE CH LDREN’SPARK TEKRAM ECAPS CONNECTION PARKS ORCHARD+PUBL C SPACE JOELOUIS GREENWAY CLOVERDALE ST. greenery diagram east west section

The children’s Park near the neighborhood encourages outdoor play and social interaction with other children. The vegetation surrounding the children’s park keeps them connected to the nature of the site. The Children’s Play Area features a playground with innovative recreation equipment for children of all ages. The design of the

play area celebrates the natural environment of the site, with elevation changes that stir imaginations and encourage exploration. It will offer four seasons of play with plenty of seating and shade for parents and adults. A small barrier exists along the Oakman Blvd. edge to assure children’s safety when participating in recreational activities.

90 DANI & BUSHRA \ STUDIO BOOK
market perspective

An active day at the market where the local artisans and farmers are selling their products to the neighborhood. Aside from the services it offers, it allows for the community to create relationship with one another. The market area will feature 10’ by 10’ huts for local vendors from the neighborhood and other areas of Detroit to sell their products and goods on the weekend. It provides a space for small gatherings, or simply as a spot to stop and enjoy the park under the square pavilions. The market is adjacent to the food hall located on Cloverdale St. and old Burlingame St providing a location for vendors in the winter months.

The programming of the market is arranged in a way that all the huts can accommodate different street market typologies such as local food sales as well as cafes. The modular design allows for the plugged-in huts to adapt to specific hours within the day, much like how the local street markets function according to the density of activity within the area during the day. The location for the market was determined by the whereabouts of a concrete slab that was previously put in the site many years prior to site. The base concrete allows vegetation to grow through the cracked stone creating a space for water to drain in the site.

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playground perspective

Rather than erasing what is there, structures that are in good condition will be preserved. Plot two builds on the existing structures

that have been abandoned and expanding on some buildings that are in use to work towards adaptive reuse of the site.

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WALKING AND BIKING PATH JEFFREYS STREET I-96 HIGHWAY
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6ft GAP BETWEEN EACH BUFFER
DANI & BUSHRA
buffer diagram
93 figure ground
94 DANI & BUSHRA \ STUDIO BOOK site plan

Providing a space where culture and business can develop together. Allows people to enjoy their space and build new

connections with one another as well as giving the plot a place to establish their own story.

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PLOT III

SOFIA D’ARIENZO & SIDNY HESSEM

The gateway to the new up-andcoming Joe Louis Green way starts on Grand River Ave. The symbolic and literal division creates a strong transverse axis through the site. To allow for a comparative feeling on both east and west sides of Grand River, the architecture is built upwards to bring a sense of boundedness from the site to the incoming user. A parallel axis is proposed, spanning from the opposing side of Jefferies Highway to the west end of Beechdale Ave. Creating a special sort of entrance from the easternmost side of the site. A bridge, that doubles as a park and entryway is created for the most welcoming first experience and impression of the site. These two axis points become the boundaries of the plot, defining the line between the functions of the plots both north and south. The attributes of these plots to the north and south are very opposing in their urban features. To create a dense urban storefront downtown feel on one end yet an entrance to a more leisurely campuslike feel, just a couple hundred feet away. This space in between has a duty to uphold a walkable park network. This was made possible through the act of “puzzle piecing” new buildings into the current ones to create a level and unified place for

the public to use. As local community member roams into these spaces they are greeted with an overwhelming sense of pride and establishment for their community that shall inspire them to form an alliance amongst their neighbors. Allowing them to create their identity, rather than feeling as though they were forced into a gentrification project. This topography also allows for a gentle yet quite literal slope away from the site’s hotspot, Grand River. The idea is that the back side of these buildings is either covered with hills or used as elevated patio spaces to allow the user not to feel excluded from either side, yet quite the opposite. They are granted the experience of both qualities of urban and more rural. This key transverse axis has been made to allow circulation between its connecting communities as connections to local living and business accommodations. The newly zoned SD2 district has been expanded on to ensure that the members of the community have access to the most basic and convenient amenities, such as a barber shop, pet store, or optometrist. The plaza that is happening directly west of this zone is abundant in local cafes and seating to allow one to build a sense of home or identity there. The history of the site accommodates the circulation that the plot naturally creates.

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existing axon: image of existing conditions of plot 3

site axon: plot showing proposed buildings as well as public and green spaces

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concept diagram

As the middle plot in a 5 plot site, we took very much consideration the context of our surrounding plots. With one side desperately needed an urban uplift, the other side introduces a much more vast and rural type campus park. On the east and west ends the plot is surrounded by neighborhoods. Between the linear park and a major transverse axis that runs parallel to our site, we

have made it very easy and possible to access anything you may need as a resident and/or visitor. With figurative gateways on either end, there is definitely a sense of welcome as you approach the site. The circulation on Grand River has been revamped to include a two way tram system, which limits each side of traffic to one lane plus a widened sidewalk and bike path.

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The section cut though the plaza helps show the bridge park and its relationship to the highway directly below it. A pavilion that circulates the park allows for a universal and directional experience as you exit a tram from Grand River and find your way deeper into

the site though to the plaza. The plaza is being represented as a very open area that has boundaries that are beyond the human eye. The user is allowed to pass through under a building without having to cross a physical boundary that is happening above their head. .

SOFIA & SIDNY \ STUDIO BOOK

There is also a shading device that spans the plaza to draw into further into the site This space acts as a gateway to the entire site as it definitive boundary is a major highway. This bridge questions the identity of boundary

and figuratively and literally crosses the line to welcome neighboring communities. The plaza area also starts to taper upwards as you enter form the bridge to create a more figurative gateway implicates less of the boundary and more of a directional experience.

highway section: showing bridge park and plaza
SOFIA & SIDNY \ STUDIO BOOK
process diagram: showing how the plaza creates an infinitive boundary perspective plaza: showing bridge park from the angle of leisure park

PROPOSED BUILDING

LEVELING PROPOSED TO EXISTING

EXISTING WITH ADDED GREEN ROOF

GRADUAL SLOP FROM URBAN TO LEISURE PARK

design process diagram: puzzle piece

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design intent of persevering buildings within plaza leisure park perspective from public patio deck
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leisure park perspective from public patio roof deck
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perspective diagram showing how rainwater is retained by bio-swales and outsourced to the community

oakman road section: in relation to affordable housing and leisure park

15 30 15 15 15 15 parking driving bus stop/parking median greenway driving SOFIA & SIDNY \ STUDIO BOOK

A perspective section of the newly designed Oakman Blvd. shows how the site can be more integrated within each other and allow for easy access to all areas of the site. This new design includes two way street parking as well as expanding the width of the pedestrian traffic as

the green way now runs down Oakman on this path. A new bus stop has been located in this area and a new road is also being proposed entering the SD2 site as a bus only road. This new road would be brick paved and used as pedestrian traffic when the bus is not running through it.

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design process diagram: second level addition

zoning: sd2 b3/ pr b3/ pr

figure ground: highlighting zoning

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livework/shop
sd2 perspective

KEY

tram stops

bus stops

transportation diagram: bus and tram route

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7‘ 7‘ 7‘ 10’ 10’ 11 11 7’ walk bike tram tram drive bike walk drive grand river perspective road section
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process sketch of integrating plots 3 and 4
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arithmetic building heights in plots 2 and 3 along grand river grand river elevation study
SOFIA & SIDNY \ STUDIO BOOK site plan

This plot consists of 4 main sections that are all very different yet compliment each other. As the plot widens so does the use and density. However, this diffusion allows for a gentle bleed to adjacent neighborhoods. Although this plots portion

of the green way appears to be smaller compared to its neighboring sites, the idea is influence people to stop and take a break here. As this is the center of the site, the raised topography allows for the best views of the surrounding context.

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circulation diagram: foot traffic density
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PLOT IV

MAHMMOUD ELJAMMALI, JAKE LAMPI, RYAN LEMKE, AND GIOVANNI ZORA

The goal for our site development was the transformation of a post-industrial wasteland to a tranquil landscape within the city. It is intended to be a space where residents, workers, and travelers are all welcome to spend their day within nature alongside community members. Whether spending time at local attractions or passing through on the Joe Louis Greenway, this space is intended to provide connections to neighboring residential and business districts. The site also holds a vision of creating equitable space, in accordance with the vision of Joe Louis, that is easily accessible and fits to its context. In addition, the space considers civic and cultural needs for the present and future. Various services within the site are organized throughout a large civic campus

that is easily accessible by multiple pedestrian modes of transit, including the Joe Louis Greenway. The site includes a community center for indoor and outdoor recreation activities, a public library and cultural center, and a civic plaza that promotes the safety and well-being of the neighborhood. An assisted living facility on the campus combines with the nearby live work district and large number of single-family residences in the surrounding context to create equitable housing opportunities. The site preserves existing business, residential, and industrial zones and makes use of salvageable vacant buildings. A series of connective parks integrates the campus and context, promoting our goals of belonging and connection, and provides pleasant visibility from neighboring areas into the campus and landscape.

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122 MAHMMOUD, JAKE, RYAN, & GIOVANNI \ STUDIO BOOK
existing axon: image of existing conditions of plot 3

site axon: of plot showing proposed buildings as well as public and green spaces

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124 MAHMMOUD, JAKE, RYAN, & GIOVANNI \ STUDIO BOOK
concept diagram

Our Civic Campus employs a few key buildings to create a contrast in scale with the surrounding context. The buildings promote visibility and highlight the Cultural Center, which stands alone as an integrative icon for the Campus. The surrounding public spaces forms a network

of gathering spaces framed by the Joe Louis Greenway and Greenbelt. Transverse connective parks wind through the surrounding districts to provide equitable access. The buildings and parks incorporate the site’s industrial history by preserving buildings and infrastructure throughout.

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126 MAHMMOUD, JAKE, RYAN, & GIOVANNI \ STUDIO BOOK
127 west context live/work district civic campus preserved industry east context
128 greenbelt bioswale MAHMMOUD, JAKE, RYAN, & GIOVANNI \ STUDIO BOOK

Explains the density of the belt and the preservation and water management throughout.

129 20’ 12’ 6’ 12’ greenway greenbelt walking
greenbelt
walking
path
preserved industrial buildings
path preserved train track
greenbelt section
130 MAHMMOUD, JAKE, RYAN, & GIOVANNI \ STUDIO BOOK
131 west context live/work district civic campus preserved industry east context
132 Green Space/ Buildings Sidewalk 10’ 15’ 15’ 15’ 5’ Vegetation Parking Driving Driving MAHMMOUD, JAKE, RYAN, & GIOVANNI \ STUDIO BOOK
133 15’ 15’
bus
30’
stop/ prking median greenway green space
oakman section Explains the restructuring of Oakman Boulevard to promote mass transport and walk-ability.

public space perspective: illustrates the connection of the proposed building to public spaces

134 MAHMMOUD, JAKE, RYAN, & GIOVANNI \ STUDIO BOOK
135 Single Family Residence - Living for nearby business owners Mixed Use - Gives opportunity for live/work incentive Civic Buildings Library - Preserved two buildings - Connected both with a bridge Industrial Preserved all industrial buildings Community Center - Preserved a vacant for sale building - Added second oor State Building - Preserved civic building
5. Cultural Center: Proposed central building integrated with green bridge 4. Single Family Residence: Living for nearby business owners 2. Mixed Use: Live/Work businesses 1. Civic Buildings 3. State Building: Preserved civic building 6. Community Center: Preserved building with second floor addition 8. Library: Preserved two buildings connected with a proposed bridge 7 Industrial: Preserved all occupied industrial buildings 1. 2. 3. 4. 6. 5. 7. 8.
136 MAHMMOUD, JAKE, RYAN, & GIOVANNI \ STUDIO BOOK
circulation: explains integration of mass transport and key pedestrian paths.
“Restructuring urban design towards strategies that will instill sustainable growth lies in the hands of the urban designer.”
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geenbelt perspective: illustrates the cohesiveness between the tranquil campus, bustling greenway, and preserved industry. green space perspective: illustrates the network of green spaces throughout a diverse context.
138 MAHMMOUD, JAKE, RYAN, & GIOVANNI \ STUDIO BOOK site plan

Our site plan achieves our goals of visibility, approachability, and belonging and creates a wholesome civic place that does not impose on the context. Well informed public spaces,

prescriptive new buildings, equitable development, and an ample network of green spaces further develop the master plan concepts of the linear park, preservation and walkability.

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PLOT V

ANDREW GAINARIU AND KAYLA MOSER

We gave our section of the site the name Reclamation Recreation and our main goals for it is to revitalize the unused space in the center, that has slowly been lost by time and discarded scrape over. Another goal is to transform it into a large public recreation area for our community and others. The challenge was to preserve the neighboring businesses and industries, rather than bulldozing them away. Having both entities

share the space harmoniously and serve the current and future needs of greenway inhabitants and the community. The way we linked all five individual portions of our site is through a Linear Park, designated green space that stretches out from the top to bottom of our site, to reinforce the idea of connection. With other sections having different defining features, what defines Reclamation Recreation is its ability to be a focal gathering point.

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The existing site contains industrial and commercial active businesses. The goal of our design is to celebrate the existing industry but also intervene by providing public spaces. A lot of the land has been used for scrap

and our goal was to take some of the land back for public use. and make it an area that is more enjoyable. Where possible, we incorporated outdoor spaces for sports and other physical activity.

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existing axon: image of existing conditions plot 5

The larger areas of the land were used as fields or arenas to be a place where people can gather. We chose to use existing structures and transform them into usable spaces where people can be productive at learning and working. Building a greenway around industrial

spaces offered a unique opportunity to bring life back to a previously unoccupied area in Detroit. where people can be productive at learning and working. Building a greenway around industrial spaces offered a unique opportunity to bring life back to a previously unoccupied area in Detroit

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site axon: showing various fields of leisure and the greenbelt
144 ANDREW & KAYLA \ STUDIO BOOK
functions diagram

The negative space in between areas used for industry or commercial businesses were previously ignored, leaving a large amount of greenspace for different sports programs. The sports fields are laid out from the North side of the site near W. Chicago to the South of the site at Joy Road. Passing pedestrians can view the sports activity or join in or take a break and enjoy viewing the sports. We wanted to

promote use of this area by providing a variety of fitness activities to encourage neighbors and other members of the community to participate in team building sports and bring people closer together. The site had a lot of fencing and one main goal was to open the space in between buildings for pedestrians. By providing several openings on each side, the greenway serves as a connector between different residential streets.

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The greenway runs parallel to the sports and fitness areas. The paths are used to create a seamless transition to the sports from the greenway. There are also many resting locations where by passers can relax.

Due to the scale of the industry nearby, visual barriers were used as a separation between the work and leisure areas. Our nearby businesses also benefit from this design by having a park to enjoy during down time.

146 ANDREW & KAYLA \ STUDIO BOOK

The greenery in between heavy industry and the greenway acts as a buffer to provide an experience that is allows users to feel like they are deeply immersed in nature vs. a post industrial area. We wanted to balance the land use to

make it suitable for different uses, instead of how it was previously used. Giving more land to public space allows for nature and aesthetic design to take over. Cleaning up the land will make it more viable for new development opportunities moving forward.

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skate park section

The greenway can also serve ecological purposes by re-directing rainwater from nearby structures to a retention pond, lessening the impact of local flooding.

walking path

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entrance greenway
KEY
greenway section
Research Plaza DOVER AVE. Proposed Skate Park ROSELAWN AVE. JOY RD. W. CHICAGO RD. ALPINE ST. CENTRAL AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. STAWELL AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. Trade Development GYM Market New Auto Recycle Farmers Market Area greenway section cut line
150 ANDREW & KAYLA \ STUDIO BOOK
perspective: view of greenway from basketball courts perspective: view of greenway from basketball courts away
151 AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. JOY ROAD OAKMAN BOULEVARD ROSELAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. ALPINE AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. M3 R1 zoning diagram

This section of the greenway can be utilized by people of all ages and fitness backgrounds. At the Central Ave. Entrance is a vacant warehouse turned indoor and outdoor gym. At each outdoor activity space is a sheltered pavilion to provide protection from undesirable weather conditions.

The section below illustrates one of the bigger fields, the football field. There is a difference in elevation from the sports arenas and greenway, conveying different programs. This also gives non sports users to spectate without interfering with the game, showing separation between activity outside of the fields.

152 ANDREW & KAYLA \ STUDIO BOOK
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perspective: view of outdoor gym and central ave. entrance to greenway basketball court section
154 AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. JOY ROAD OAKMAN BOULEVARD ROSELAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. M3 ANDREW & KAYLA \ STUDIO BOOK site plan

Early in the design process, we decided to have a series of parks alongside the greenway. this helps to connect circulation to gathering and the different activities in the parks.

process sketch

The different modes of transportation merge at the greenway, creating opportunities for all too recreate and enjoy the city in communal way.

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MASTER PLAN

The final master plan denotes a cohesive design of the various plots that unifies an overall essence of togetherness and integrates all neighborhoods with each other. Re-zoning played a large factor in this because of the complex nature in the previous zoning ordnance. In addition, a greenbelt

was implemented in the design to aid in the increase of bikers and decrease the use of vehicles. The accommodation of the residents was also essential to our master plan in order to give them a sense of community that they so deserve. This refresh will be the next step toward becoming a place.

156 greenway bus route vacant
N
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GROUP PLOTS
R1 single-family residential district B4 general business district M3 general industrial district P2 institutional
157 FULLERTON AVENUE EWALD CIRCLE OHIO AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. CORTLAND AVENUE WYOMING AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. INDIANAA AVE. WISCONSIN AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. OAKMAN BOULVARD PARIE AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. AMERICAN AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. STOEPEL AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. MONICA AVE. PARIE AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. BURNETTE AVE. CEDARLAWN AVENUE AURORA AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE MAPLELAWN AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE CROCUSLAWN AVENUE VIOLETLAWN AVENUE MORELY AVENUE BEECHDALE AVENUE ORANGELAWN AVENUE ELMIRA AVENUE AURORA AVENUE PLYMOUTH AVENUE BURLINGAME ELMHURST TUXEDO AVE. WEST CHICAGO AVE. WESTFIELD AVE. ELMHURST AVE. ROSALAWN NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. OHIO AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY WESTFIELD AVE. BURNETTE AVE. MONICA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. AMERICAN AVE. BRYDEN AVE. CENTRAL AVE. ALPINE AVE. JOY ROAD OAKMAN BOULEVARD OAKMAN BOULEVARD PARIE AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. GRIGGS AVE. ILENE AVE. WASHBURN AVE. WYOMING AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. VAN BUREN AVE. MACKENZIE AVE. RAILROAD RAILROAD RAILROAD WYOMING AVE. GREENLAWN AVE. ALPINE AVE. CENTRAL AVE. BYDEN AVE. AMERICAN AVE. OAKMAN BLVD. LIVERNOIS AVE. LINSDALE AVE. ALASKA AVE. GRANDRIVERAVE. TUXEDO AVE. BURLINGAME WELTO AVE. LIPTO AVE. COLLINGWOODAVE. ELMUHURSTAVE. HERBERT AVE. DALRYMPLE AVE. BELLETERRE AVE. NARDIN PARK DRIVE WOODSIDEA AVE. CHERRYLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. NORTHLAWN AVE. ROSELAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. CLOVERLAWN AVE. INDIANAA AVE. KENTUCKY AVE. ILENE AVE. GRIGGS AVE. GRIGGS AVE. BIRWOOD AVE. MONICA AVE. SANTA ROSA AVE. STOEPEL AVE. EWALD CIRCLE OAKMAN BOULEVARD BUENA VISTA AVE. LIVERNOIS AVE. JEFFERIES FREEWAY LIVERNOIS AVE. M3 M3 M3 R5 SD2 B3 B3 B3 P1 PR PR PC PR B4 B4 B4 PR PR R1 R1 R1 PC PR R1 B4 B4 PR B4 PR PR

DOCUMENTATION

DOCUMENTED \ STUDIO BOOK

DOCUMENTATION

PHYSICAL MODEL

PLENARY SESSIONS

PHYSICAL MODEL

The 4’ x 10’ site model of the urban design project in Detroit is made up of various materials and a range of fabrication methods. In order to complete the reproduction of the site and the context around it a scale of 1:1000 was determined from the beginning. Later materials were chosen as a group. Existing context and buildings are medium density fiberboards painted white, and the site limits being medium density fiberboard as well, but unpainted. The procedure to fabricate the previous portion was done in autocad and taken to a CNC machine to make precise incisions and align everything perfectly. Grey proposed buildings were 3-D printed after being modeled in Rhino3d via each group for their respective plot. Orange public space areas were laser cut and aligned in autocad along with the greenbelt and greenway.

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PLOT II PHYSICAL MODEL
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PLOT III
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PLOT IV
MODEL
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PLOT V
MODEL
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PLENARY SESSIONS

09.07.2022

SITE VISIT ANALYSIS

In order to begin our intensive research of establishing an urban identity we first had to familiarize ourselves with the site, hence why our professor accommodated a class subjected to exploring the industrial and barren site via bikes. On the first few class sessions we were briefed by our professor about the site and how the proposed greenway would run through the site. In order to get the full immersive experience we biked along the proposed trail and had plenty of feedback to discuss when we reconvened the next class period. Overall the site visit was a successes because as a class we tested the limits of the site and greenway by traveling as a group and exploring each crevice of the site. We first gave our initial thoughts on a median at Oakman Boulevard. The conversation was as expected. We were not overly excited with when biking the path due to a plethora of reasons. Once we came together again we talked about the pros and cons of the site. A major problem we noticed was that the proposed greenway felt out of place running close to the road and made us feel

uncomfortable and unsafe when we were next to the cars. We thought a better alternative route would be needed to create a separate path strictly for biking and walking use. With this new finding we brainstormed potential amenities that would go on a separate bike trail. Features that would be along this new path would be bike rental stations, tire refill stations, bike racks, and we were thinking even some sporting fields. Overall, we wanted this new path to be efficient, but provide a heightened experience than simply biking next to a busy road. We wanted this path to connect to the major parts of the site as well as the bus route allowing it to be accessible to everyone. When

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analyzing the residential areas in and around the site, we discovered that many of the houses were either abandoned or in terrible condition as well as many empty lots on all streets. There was also a large amount of vacant commercial buildings in rough condition. Some of these could be demolished for better opportunities or renovated for a better purpose is the logical thing we decided. We also had an idea of using post-industrial structures and abandoned housing materials to create something functional on our site. Although many of these industrial buildings are vacant, some were still in use and so we understood that we would have to be mindful these

businesses when creating our design. When looking into the function of the buildings on the site, we saw a similar function of auto body/car shops, local shops and churches to be common. We decided that we would bring new functions that were needed to the area and create a better diversity of building use. Responding to the empty lots across the site, our team thought that we could use these spaces for numerous new purposes such as entertainment or community areas to bring people together. Lastly, in areas where housing is limited due to condition or vacancy, new housing could populate the area and bring an identity and spark new life within the area.

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09.23.2022

CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF GREENWAY

When we studied the greenway path, we wanted to integrate it within the site and push it farther from the road in some cases to provide a heightened experience. We also focused on car traffic and brainstormed ideas to connect main axes and propose transverse axes. We looked at the possibility of one and two-way streets as well as strictly pedestrian walking and biking roadways. Another idea we looked at was creating a second path, alternate to the greenway for users who wish for a leisure experience rather than simply using the greenway for immediate travel. This would run through our proposed design idea and would allow for users to get off their bikes and experience our new proposals. We then shifted our focus to public spaces and thought that pavilions, forests and market squares placed throughout our site would be a beneficial element to bring the community and travelers together. These designs would be accessible by someone of any age and ability. We then transitioned into thinking about what services we should provide

and what industry should be preserved. Lastly, we discussed how we would ensure that the entire site would be walkable and create a welcoming atmosphere. At this stage we began to brainstorm design ideas for the entirety of the site which was a challenge due to its scale. We had questions on what to do with the current housing that was mostly in horrible condition. empty lots came up. The team decided that we wanted to respect what was being used by residents and come up with solutions to fix the vacancy issue. We also decided that the plot of land located between West Chicago and Grand River would be the best for the community gathering space, with smaller recreation on the north and south of that area. The team also discussed barriers to hide what was needed but also to show what was beneficial to the site. We discussed adding and removing roads from the site or changing their usage from car traffic to foot traffic for example. We then realized that the plot of land that was mentioned above (where we would put the majority of the community elements had a

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railroad running through it and so we had to brainstorm ideas with what to do with that and research the usage of it and how often. We discussed using intriguing design elements and site features to slow the commuters down. It

would be a good idea to bring our site activity and use. Another aspect we discussed was where we were going to implement retail and commercial buildings as we began to plan a proposed zoning structure for the site.

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10.05.2022

ZONING AND PRECEDENTS

After listening to guest speakers, Idres and Michelle we moved onto the master plan designs. Idres advised the group to focus on the greenway and the design of it as well as to research existing infrastructure and the railroad and what precedents could help our design ideas. Michelle advised the group to research neighborhood planning and the difference between single and multi-family housing. She also mentioned creating a unified vision for economic development. After that our class meeting began with discussions about preservation and to make sure that each member of the team knew that our goal was to preserve anything possible so that the site could have a historical identity. We then transitioned into designing the greenway and decided that we wanted to deviate from a flat, linear path and to introduce inclines and elevations as well as a curving aspect to it. Discussion about road usage was sparked again and we decided that we wanted to control the flow of semi-trucks on the site which

was a problem due to the close proximity to the I-96 highway. We know there are still many active industrial businesses occurring in and around our site and so we designed for the semi-trucks to be pushed to the border or the site to allow for the least amount of disruption to the pleasant, recreational area we were trying to produce. At this point in the semester, we started to dive deeper into the individual areas and nodes of our site and so we realized that the busiest area was the Oakman, Grand River intersection which we could turn into a downtown area for our site. Lastly, we wanted the site to be very walkable not just on the main greenway path but throughout so smaller paths branching off of the greenway was an idea we would develop further.

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10.14.2022

DESIGN IDEAS AND FOCUS

The team discussed and came up with a few precedents for the project design which included the Atlanta Beltline, MOMA Waterfront, St. Louis Chouteau, and the Switzerland Novarti Campus. We also focused on pocket parks with paths running through them to connect spaces to the greenway. We also wanted to focus on safety with public transportation as well as walking and biking. With public space we wanted to benefit

ecology and improve mental health. When looking at roads that were discontinued due to the industry or other purposes, we wanted to re-connect some of them. We looked into setting a proposed zoning map for the site. Northern area would be focused on residential because that area contained a high amount of vacancy. Mixed use buildings were to be placed on the Grand River downtown area. The Southern area would be

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SESSIONS

used for smaller recreation, due to the size of land available to the design team. We wanted to be mindful of parking and its impact on the site. We agreed that there should be some parking but not a large amount of it because we want our site to be walkable and used without a vehicle. When looking at roads we started brainstorming new service roads to keep vehicle traffic to a minimum in important public/ recreational areas of the site,

integrating the into the business districts as well as the industrial areas. We assigned every block of the site to the current Detroit zoning categories and assigned a color to distinguish them from one another.

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10.18.2022

UNIFYING THE OVERALL SITE, PHYSICAL MODEL, AND BOOK

Gearing towards the end of the semester we came together once more to discuss finalization of the overall site before we moved onto our individual plots and group/partner designs. We met to discuss the unification of the site and made sure each plot related to one another. This was so that a resident living in the northern area, southern area and everywhere in between could experience our site in a positive manner and to allow residents just outside the site to experience the same qualities. Additionally, during this discussion the team re-evaluated where we wanted the recreational spaces and decided that we should incorporate them throughout the site, rather than just in the center. We also decided to talk about the water throughout the site and tried to implement it in other plots to combat the storm problems in our site. As one of our last concepts we collectively agreed to add a park over I-96 that would allow traffic to flow into our site from the surrounding neighborhoods. This was also a studio work day where we divided and conquered

to work on the physical site model. The painting team painted the table with a white finish and painted the vegetation white as well to showcase them as existing context. There was also a team dedicated to cutting, sanding, and painting surrounded homes, due to the large amount of context. Lastly we added finishing touches to the model by making it easy to be moved from one room to another. As for the book portion we finalized color scheme and our layout team for the book looked at precedents to find a layout that would be most ideal for our work.

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PLENARY SESSIONS \ STUDIO BOOK
181
182

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook

Articles inside

CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF GREENWAY

5min
pages 174-181

MASTER PLAN

0
page 156

PLOT V

3min
pages 141-148, 150, 152-153, 155

PLOT III

4min
pages 97-99, 101-114, 116-117, 119

PLOT II

3min
pages 79-81, 83-86, 88, 90-92, 94-95

PLOT I

3min
pages 61-71, 75, 77

MASTER PLAN

0
page 56

URBAN COMPOSITION

0
page 54

GREEN & PUBLIC SPACE

0
page 48

PROJECT GOALS AND CONCEPTS

1min
page 46

EXISTING SITE PLAN

0
page 42

URBAN COMPOSITION

0
page 40

ZONING

0
page 38

VACANCY

0
page 36

VEGETATION

0
page 34

TRANSPORTATION

0
pages 30, 32

Chronological Timeline

2min
pages 24-27

HISTORY

0
page 22

SITE OVERVIEW

1min
pages 20-21

JOE LOUIS GREENWAY

4min
pages 14-19

PREFACE

0
page 9

FOREWORD

1min
page 7

ZONING AND PRECEDENTS

3min
pages 176-181

MASTER PLAN

0
page 156

PLOT V

3min
pages 141-148, 150, 152-153, 155

PLOT II

3min
pages 79-81, 83-86, 88, 90-92, 94-95

PLOT I

3min
pages 61-71, 75-77

MASTER PLAN

0
page 56

URBAN COMPOSITION

0
page 54

GREEN & PUBLIC SPACE

0
page 48

PROJECT GOALS AND CONCEPTS

1min
page 46

EXISTING SITE PLAN

0
page 42

URBAN COMPOSITION

0
page 40

ZONING

0
page 38

VACANCY

0
page 36

VEGETATION

0
page 34

TRANSPORTATION

0
pages 30, 32

Chronological Timeline

2min
pages 24-27

HISTORY

0
page 22

SITE OVERVIEW

1min
pages 20-21

JOE LOUIS GREENWAY

4min
pages 14-19

PREFACE

0
page 9

FOREWORD

1min
page 7
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