Architectural / Planning Services
HISTORIC PRESERVATION & ADAPTIVE REUSE
NEUMANN/SMITH LOOKS BEYOND THE ORDINARY TO CREATE EXTRAORDINARY ARCHITECTURE ABOUT US Neumann/Smith Architecture is a distinguished design firm noted for its creativity in achieving client goals. That creativity has distinguished our work for five decades, earning the firm over 200 awards including the prestigious AIA Michigan Architecture Firm Award and numerous features in the international architectural press. We have received commendations for exemplary teamwork including Marvin M. Black Excellence in Partnering Awards. Our expertise in addressing technical issues and our ability to manage complex projects have been recognized by several Build America and Build Michigan awards from the Associated General Contractors of America. Founded in 1968, Neumann/Smith continues to build on its history of design excellence with a talented group of individuals who share an unwavering commitment to exceptional service and the highest standards of professional practice. The firm specializes in architecture, planning, interior design and historic preservation for corporate and municipal offices, mixed-use developments, multi-unit housing, parking structures, commercial and retail centers, and higher education facilities. Our Detroit Design Studio in the historic Wright-Kay Building, allows us to better serve current and future local clients in the community and play a prominent role in the City’s revitalization.
We provide comprehensive architectural services. Our focus on architecture allows us to excel in our profession. It gives us the freedom to bring together the best engineering and specialty consultants to meet the unique needs of each project. Our architects and interior designers are skilled in master planning, site evaluation, feasibility studies, space planning, architecture, interior design, and project management. Collaboration is a routine part of our practice. We typically hire civil, structural, mechanical and electrical engineers, and landscape architects. We often utilize the consulting services of nationally renowned specialists in audio and visual technology, data and communications, lighting, and acoustics. Our long-term working relationships with many of our consultants provides the efficiencies and integrated communication typical of a large A/E practice, plus the creativity and checks and balances of independent firms.
400 Galleria Officentre Suite 555 Southfield, MI 48034 248-352-8310 248-352-1821 fax www.neumannsmith.com
1500 Woodward Suite 300 Detroit, MI 48226 313-782-4800
ADAPTING TO TODAY’S NEEDS
FOCUS ON: YOUR VISION We recognize that our value to you as a consultant is not achieved by “dictating design,” but rather by shaping your vision with our collective expertise and experience, resulting in the desired image with an assurance of operational performance. Our design process begins by listening. As we focus our efforts on planning and design, we challenge each decision with as many alternatives as possible and present clients with multiple options for consideration, noting the advantages and disadvantages of each. Our goal: • Provide the appropriate space needs efficiently and comfortably • Establish proper space adjacencies to enhance the social landscape • Optimize space flexibility to accommodate future change • Create interior character to portray the appropriate image for the desired community • Optimize views to the outdoors and daylight • Ensure code compliance to create a safe environment • Utilize energy efficient mechanical and electrical systems and investigate life cycle costs associated with different options • Incorporate “green” building design principals where appropriate to minimize negative affects on the environment • Integrate finishes and materials that are timeless, durable, and easily maintained
Smart Design. We bring a unique value-driven mind-set to every project. Extensive experience working with developers, where time is money, makes us different. We’ve learned how to do things smarter to get the most value out of every budget dollar. We were early leaders in fast-track, team-construct, design/build-GMP and mechanical/ electrical design/build approaches and have established new precedents with Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), a fundamentally different approach to the design and construction process. We leverage smart technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and organize in smart ways to reduce waste, maximize efficiency through all phases of the project and optimize project results. Sustainable Solutions. “Green” strategies are an integral part of every design. We know that even small measures can make a big difference over the lifetime operation of a facility. Over half of our architects and interior designers are LEED Accredited Professionals and our portfolio of work includes two million square feet of LEED rated projects. Technical Capabilities. We are proficient with major Computer Aided Design Systems (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) programs including the latest versions of Revit, Navisworks, Rhino and AutoCAD, as well as Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office Suites for the production of contract documents and schedule tracking. To help our clients visualize their projects, we have in-house expertise in SketchUp, Rhino, Autodesk 3D Max Design, Lumion, ReCap, Point Cloud Data and Apple QuickTime VR, tools used to generate three-dimensional CAD modeling, photo realistic renderings, animations and interactive simulations of sites, exterior and interior spaces. Many of our clients rely on our sophisticated in-house computer capabilities to support their marketing and fundraising campaigns.
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
OUR EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE HAS GIVEN US AN INTIMATE UNDERSTANDING OF THE INFRASTRUCTURE IN VINTAGE FACILITIES AND PROVEN EXPERTISE IN WHAT CAN AND SHOULD BE DONE FOR SUCCESSFUL REHABILITATION Neumann/Smith does a considerable amount of work with renovation and adaptive re-use of historic structures as typified by much of our work for the Bedrock Detroit and the Quicken Loan Family of Companies in downtown Detroit at Detroit’s Chrysler House (formerly the Dime Building), First National Building, One Woodward, and the Wright-Kay Building.
Bedrock Detroit, 1515/1529 Woodward (9 Stories of Core & Shell upgrades and exterior renovation), Detroit, MI
Our desire is to celebrate the significant design details of historic buildings while integrating contemporary mechanical and electrical systems to provide modern-day functionality and comfort within the newly preserved historic setting. Our design approach to each project is tempered by our client’s goals and ranges from the creation of energetic office environments in raw, unfinished structures, to detailed restoration of plaster details and exterior masonry flourishes on historically significant structures.
Bedrock Detroit, Wright-Kay Building Renovation (renovation of historic 1500 Woodward building), Detroit, MI
Bedrock Detroit, State Savings Bank (78,704 sf), Detroit, MI Lear Corporation, 119 State Street, Innovation and Design Studio (35,000 sf renovation), Capital Park, Detroit, MI
Ford Land, Wagner Place Redevelopment (150,000 sf of retail, restaurants and offices), Dearborn, MI WeWork, 1001 and 1449 Woodward Tenant Improvements (100,000 sf), Detroit, MI
Hillsdale College, Mauck Hall Renovations, Hillsdale, MI Grand Circus Tech Academy at the Broderick Tower (14,500 sf renovation of the historic Broderick Tower), Detroit, MI East Dearborn Downtown Development Authority (EDDDA), City Hall Artspace (mixed-use arts campus combining live/work space for artists and their families, work studios, co-working space for entrepreneurs and artists, a live/work unit for an artist-in-residency program, and galleries), Dearborn, MI
Jack Entertainment (25,205 sf interior renovation and tenant fit out), Detroit, MI
Bedrock Detroit, Madison Building Renovation, (50,000 sf transformation of historic building into a digital entrepreneurial hub), Detroit, MI
Bedrock Detroit, Clark Lofts (adaptive reuse/renovation of a 10-story, 24 units, 36,000 sf building, retail and leasing center), Detroit, MI
Bedrock Detroit, Quicken Loans Offices (173,500 sf renovation of 11 Floors of the Dime Building for 1,350 employees), Detroit, MI
Bedrock Detroit, Headquarters at 620/630 Woodward Avenue (26,500 sf interior fit-out and exterior façade renovation), Detroit, MI
Bedrock Detroit, Quicken Loans Offices (107,000 sf renovation at One Woodward Avenue), Detroit, MI
Bedrock Detroit, Fourteen56 / 1456 Woodward Historic Renovation, Detroit, MI
DIME Detroit Institute of Music Education (20,000 sf renovation of the historic Bamlet Building), Detroit, MI
Campbell Ewald Headquarters (121,112 sf design of advertising agency offices in former J.L. Hudson Co. warehouse attached to Ford Field), Detroit, MI
Detroit Chamber of Commerce Office Renovation, 32,000 sf consolidation of Chamber offices in historic One Woodward), Detroit, MI
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Cornice & Slate Building (adaptive reuse of an 1890s Neo-Italianate building), Detroit, MI
Jones Lang LaSalle, Hudson Avenue Offices (adaptive reuse of a warehouse building), Royal Oak, MI
First National Building (800,000 sf adaptive re-use concepts for exterior storefronts, lobby- Fed/State Combined Part 1 & 2 tax credit submittals), Detroit, MI
Motor City Electric Headquarters (47,000 sf consolidation of staff from 2 Locations and adaptive reuse of vacant building), Detroit, MI
Marine City Town Hall (master plan for 10,500 sf Richardsonian Romanesque Town Hall restoration and Phase I implementation including masonry restoration, replacement of historic windows and doors, and reconstruction of historic east porch and main entrances), Marine City, MI
US General Services Administration, Federal Building Alterations and Modernization (240,000 sf), LEED Certified, Chicago, Illinois The Henry Ford, Glass Factory Addition and Renovation, Dearborn, MI Beringea, LLC, Corporate Offices (6,000 sf adaptive re-use of a historic farmhouse), Farmington Hills, MI
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 122,000 sf 5 floors ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Project Video Additional Project Photos
Interior partitioning was kept minimal to accentuate the openness and historic feel of the space.
Campbell Ewald
Headquarters Advertising agency Campbell Ewald examined several options for relocating their headquarters before falling in love with the “bones” of the former J.L. Hudson Co. warehouse connected to Ford Field. Neumann/Smith was hired to design their new space for 500+ employees, customizing every aspect to encourage collaboration and idea sharing. The “main floor” of the space sets the stage for the 4 floors above. Centralized bleacherstyle seating and cafe meeting configurations allow for large gatherings and events, while surrounding areas provide places to do business and collaborate. A four-story LED screen with the ability to add customized messaging and imagery provides visual impact. Neumann/Smith designed the screen to fill the height of the atrium and create a “WOW” factor. Bench furniture configurations and minimal fixed rooms were selected to create a more open and collaborative environment. The space features other sustainable solutions including reclaimed barn wood from Michigan, counters made of concrete, and chairs with recycled content and environmentally-friendly fabrics. Interior partitioning was kept minimal to accentuate the openness and historic feel of the space. Original concrete floors were ground and polished. Structural steel members on higher floor levels were sandblasted and painted to reveal their original industrial flavor. Existing bell concrete columns were cleaned and preserved in their existing condition to reflect a more experienced appearance. To control sound and acoustics, several inches of a spray-on “K-13” sound agent was applied to the ceilings. This agent uses shredded, recycled newspapers and supports a more sustainable approach. The office features highly unique finishes. Brass press plates dating back to an age before digital print production adorn the lobby’s ceiling. Each plate features a vintage Lowe Campbell Ewald advertisement from the 1950s to the 1980s and strengthens their personal identity with their new space.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 50,000 sf ADDITIONAL INFORMATION M@dison CAM Special Issue 2012
The vision for the renovation of this 1917 structure was to create a hub for high-tech entrepreneurial activity and special events that would be instrumental in the rejuvenation of the City of Detroit.
Bedrock Detroit
Madison Building Bedrock saw the potential to transform the 1917 Madison Building into a hub for high-tech entrepreneurial activity and special events that would be instrumental in the rejuvenation of the City of Detroit. Floors 2-4 offer space for anchor businesses and a “desk-for-a-day” environment for enterprising “techies.” The design combines the existing rawness of clay tile ceilings, exposed brick, steel columns and beams, and concrete floors with instances of playful graphics, urban light sculptures, and modern furniture. Open office space with benching style workstations fosters collaboration. Breakout spaces are provided throughout the floors, separated by low meandering walls with writable surfaces for brainstorming. A variety of conventional and unusual seating, including “bubble” swings, encourages tenants to congregate or collaborate informally. The fifth floor offers state-of-the-art meeting and gathering spaces, including a two-story auditorium. The roof deck provides a unique multi-purpose event space featuring dramatic views. Nearly 10,000 sf, the 5th floor offers meeting and gathering spaces, including a 2-story auditorium that seats 140 people, 2 private conference rooms, lounge seating and tables, and bar facilities. A full catering kitchen supports the various functions. One of the jewels of the project is the unique rooftop terrace that provides stunning views. The space contains two bars, a commercial kitchen with three barbecues, and multiple flat screen televisions. Drink shelves separate the three levels and stainless steel cables ring the terrace to enhance the mostly unobstructed views. The look is modern, with lighting, touches of wood, foliage, and a fire feature to soften the space. Close collaboration utilizing a series of “real time” working sessions were instrumental in completing the project within six months.
LOCATION Sagninaw, Michigan SIZE 9,100 sf
This renovated space at the SVRC Marketplace features an open floor plan for offices, coworking space and conference rooms available to entrepreneurs, small businesses and corporations.
Central Michigan University Research Corporation
CoWork Space Located in the historic Saginaw News building, CMURC’s new CoWork space offers a one-stop shop for business owners and entrepreneurs to get the access they need to accelerate their companies, collaborate, and innovate. Giving nods to the rustic, old-town ambiance of Downtown Saginaw, exposed brick walls, raw, industrial steel ceiling beams and structures, and stained polishedconcrete floors appear throughout the space. Raised wood floors and benches made of reclaimed barnwood line the perimeter of the space and offer a place for visitors to work along the windows, providing beautiful views of the Saginaw River. Steel structured storefront systems align the inner space and offer a glance into the building’s atrium and Farmers Market located on the floors below. Common areas are fully equipped with the latest technologies and were designed as flexible spaces for small and large user groups. These areas feature different types of seating options ranging from standard desk chairs, booth seating, and ceiling suspended benches. The design was purposeful in preserving many of the building’s original features such as the refurbished historic tile on the elevator core wall and granite.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 35,000 sf 6 Stories
The building’s origin, history, structural qualities and industrial-themed décor all come together to help drive conversations around new ideas.
Lear Corporation
Lear Innovation Center Detroit’s 119 State Street building was purchased by Lear Corporation to house a new innovation and design studio that works on software applications and solutions related to vehicle connectivity. This six-story building was designed as a hub for art, creativity, automotive advance concept development, and hands-on learning for Detroit college students, unlike anything the downtown area has ever seen. The historic building is located in Detroit’s Capital Park neighborhood and was viewed as an opportunity for high impact by Lear, as it is located in the heart of the city and close to community partners. The building also houses a non-automotive new business incubator, a think tank, a creative design studio, an art gallery, Lear executive satellite offices, conference and meeting space and a rooftop garden. As a tribute to the history of Detroit, the automotive industry and roots as manufacturers, an industrial design aesthetic was developed that showcases raw, local made products and designs.
LOCATION Dearborn, Michigan SIZE 53 Units 105,000 sf 80,000 sf Residential One, two and three bedroom units
The historic buildings house residential units, tenant storage, a leasing office, cafĂŠ, corridor art galleries, and incubator space.
Artspace
City Hall Artspace Lofts Looking to use the power of the arts to improve East Dearborn’s economic base, the East Dearborn Downtown Development Authority (EDDDA) invited Artspace into the community. The City Hall Artspace Lofts complex consists of three buildings: the City Hall Building, the West Annex Building, and the Concourse. The City Hall Building is four stories and 42,564 SF and the West Annex Building is four stories and 38,155 SF. These two historic buildings will house the residential units, tenant storage, a leasing office, cafÊ, corridor art galleries, and incubator space. City Hall and the West Annex are connected by the one-story, 24,756 SF Concourse Building, built in 1980. In 2013 Artspace secured Federal low income housing and historic tax credits to develop the residential portion of the City Hall Artspace Lofts totaling $10.5 million in project funding. The project is seeking philanthropic funding to close the final gap of this $16.5 million effort. Artspace will combine 53 units of affordable live/work space for artists and their families, work studios, co-working space for entrepreneurs and artists, a live/ work unit for an artist-in-residency program, and galleries. Amenities include: a historic character with terrazzo floors and wainscot in corridors, high ceilings, large windows, open floor plan, large closets, dishwashers, corridor art galleries, community room and outdoor patio. The renovation project involves two (2) historical buildings that are connected by a 1980s concrete structure. The connector building will include business incubator space, a multi-purpose auditorium, and gallery space.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 26,000 sf
The palette of this classic industrial workplace is inspired by the Gilded “Green Gold” era, a play on Detroit’s first industry of green lumber, and to the original tenant, C.R. Mabley department store.
Bedrock Detroit
Headquarters The four-story historic Metropole Building was largely vacant for 47 years. The building has now endured a spectacular renovation into Bedrock’s new headquarters. The space is intended to primarily be an entertainment and event venue, and secondly an office space. The architectural features are derived from details found amongst many buildings of the Historic Financial District. In an effort to embody the mission of the company, the company’s office is the manifestation of a contemporary interior infused with the rich, unique, and celebrated history of Detroit. Historical aspects are found throughout: the rails around the stairway are designed like the windshields of Ford’s classic Model T. The office has a variety of private offices that have room for small meetings, flexible workspaces, and informal spaces for collaboration. The office also has phone booths, and one special booth leads to an exclusive whiskey bar / speakeasy. Other design features include clear doors to stairwells, encouraging users to walk instead of using the elevator; special Detroit murals in the stairwells; and an atrium with a large bleacher-style staircase.
LOCATION Dearborn, Michigan SIZE Two buildings 150,000 sf
Two blocks of Downtown West Dearborn on Michigan Avenue will transform from a once deteriorated and vacant area to a vibrant place for consumers, residents and employees.
Ford Land
Wagner Place As a sign of commitment to the city and residents, Ford Motor Co. has decided to redevelop unused buildings and land across two blocks on the city’s West Dearborn District into a viable and vibrant downtown with new office and retail space. Known as Wagner Place, this mixed-use development is located only two miles west of the Ford World Headquarters, and is part of Ford’s 10-year plan to redevelop its outdated properties and provide convenience for future employees who want to live in a walkable, aesthetically pleasing community close to where they work. The project includes two new structures totaling 150,000 square feet with retail/ restaurant uses on the first floor and 600 Ford employees on the upper two floors. Also, the project includes rehabilitating the historic 120 year-old facade of the Wagner Hotel to be preserved and re-purposed as the front of a new three-story mixed-use building. West Village Drive will be designed in a way to allow for festivals and open public gathering spaces. The project includes a 373-space parking deck at the southwest corner of West Village Drive and Monroe Street to support the project and the district. A green space between the parking garage and the new buildings facing Michigan Avenue will be created for public usage and event space.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 20,000 sf
A high-end music academy where local would-be musicians can learn everything from how to master their instrument to business skills.
DIME
Detroit Institute of Music Education Detroit Institute of Music Education (DIME) is a music college like no other – custom built for serious musicians who desire a long term, professional career in modern music. In honor of Detroit’s musical heritage, the Motown sound, and the city’s forward momentum, the decision to make Detroit the location for a new music school was an easy one for the owners. Founded by music industry veterans Kevin Nixon, Sarah Clayman and Bruce Dickinson, DIME offers advanced music students a college-style experience in contemporary music, with expert musicians and industry professionals teaching courses in guitar, bass, vocals, drums, songwriting and music entrepreneurship. Prospective students can pursue a bachelor’s degree or diploma in Creative Music Performance. A renovation of the historic 1896 Bamlet Building in downtown Detroit, the school occupies more than 20,000 square feet of space on four floors of the seven-story, building in Capitol Park at the corner of Griswold Street and Grand River Avenue. The space is now includes classroom and performance space, administration areas, and is equipped with a live stage and sound system. Additionally, the facility is now capable of hosting regular entertainment events.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 14,500 sf
This working and learning environment includes a floor of desk-for-a-month type space for entrepreneurial start-ups to interact with their peers.
Detroit Venture Partners
Grand Circus at the Broderick Tower Located in the center of Downtown Detroit at Grand Circus Park and Woodward, the 34-story Broderick Tower skyscraper is a significant historic structure providing luxury residences with privileged panoramic views in the heart of Detroit’s burgeoning commercial and entertainment district. A 2012 building renovation was nearly complete with three floors reserved for office use when Neumann/Smith was hired to design a “M@dison-like” suite for a working and learning environment including a floor of desk-for-a-month type space for entrepreneurial start-ups to interact with their peers. Two floors feature flexible learning environments that can expand and contract as needed. The scope of work also includes the rework of lobbies and restrooms on all three floors. The spaces feature the exposed conditions left behind by the demolition and existing context.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 78,704 sf
Reviving this 100+ year old building was carefully executed through the expertise of our certified historical architects.
Bedrock Detroit
State Savings Bank Built in 1900 with an addition that duplicated the original design in 1914, the Silvers Building served as a State Savings Bank for 80 years. Today, it serves as a venue for pop-up events such as weddings and corporate functions. To bring the building back to life, interior upgrades were made to meet the life safety code standards including intensive cleaning, new toilet rooms, and the implementation of a sprinkler system. The light grids within the decorated coffered ceiling were upgraded to illuminate the space, while maintaining the original textured glass lenses. Two central safes with operable brass doors were preserved and offer a transition between the original building and the addition. Interior window bays were originally designed to mimic those on the building’s exterior, while a mezzanine wraps around the entire first floor. For the exterior restoration, a historic materials conservation expert worked closely with the design and construction team on appropriate cleaning methods specific to the type and age of the historic Georgian marble. All of the wood sash from the monumental windows were removed, stripped, shop primed, and repainted once back in place, meeting Detroit Historic District and the National Park Service standards. A micrograph analysis was conducted on the painted bronze around the windows to determine the most effective way of protecting the beautiful metal underneath.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 5,000 sf (West Lobby) 1,235 sf (East Lobby) 140 ft (Concourse) AWARDS 2014 IES Illumination Award of Merit
The goal with this renovation was to activate the lobby by showcasing its beauty. To do this, the dropped ceiling was removed to expose the ornate, original décor.
Bedrock Detroit
First National Building Renovations As part of a dramatic renovation of the historic First National Building, Neumann/Smith was selected to modernize the landmark building’s main lobbies and a central concourse between the two, which runs through 15,000 sf of new retail space. The design was inspired by the rich architectural heritage of Detroit and the ornate décor of the original ceiling which was exposed and incorporated as an important design element. This helped us respect the existing building even while we used new materials and exposed the space to vibrant and collaborative trends, which are essentially modern. Revitalization of the lobbies included the addition of a barrier-free entrance off of Woodward, a new video display wall, custom-designed LED lighting features, and eye-catching wrap-around LED lighting panels encompassing two elevator lobbies. New marble wall features not only enhance existing marble elements, but act as a backdrop for decorative metal wall panels. On the exterior, four new canopies add decorative elements reminiscent of the building’s original era. Underneath a more ornate design, and more reflective of a “new” Detroit, LED lights with metal screening complement lobby finishes and detail.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 25,773 sf COMPLETION December 2016
BIM made it possible for the team to visualize issues early in the process and address them before they became greater challenges.
JACK Entertainment LLC
Headquarters
Incorporating a modern office space inside a building built in 1868, Neumann/ Smith provided architectural design services for JACK Entertainment’s new headquarters in the Greektown District of downtown Detroit. The project involves the renovation of a four-story, former school into a five-level commercial space, with the main level reserved for future commercial tenants and the upper levels (including a new fifth level mezzanine) renovated into offices. In developing the design and construction drawings, BIM played a critical role in helping to create a well-coordinated and detailed set of documents. Neumann/ Smith and its mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) and structural engineers each used Revit in order to create their drawings, which was an immense help to the team in many aspects, such as phasing and overall coordination of design. The use of BIM made it possible for the team to visualize issues early in the process and address them before they became even greater challenges as the design progressed. Revit was used in team meetings along with owner meetings to show design progress and to problem solve.
LOCATION Hillsdale, Michigan SIZE 21,968 sf 4 Stories 42 Units 53 Beds I Director Suite
Mauck Residence’s most notable feature is its extensive lobby, beautifully furnished in the style of the late 1920s when it was built. The nearly 80-year-old building now features more modern amenities, while still maintaining its classic antique feel.
Hillsdale College
Mauck Hall Renovations Neumann/Smith, along with Peter Basso Associates, worked together to update Mauck Hall (originally constructed in 1929 as a men’s residential hall). The timeless exterior of Mauck Hall has held up well and fits nicely into the strong Gothic style of architecture found throughout campus. The interiors were completely transformed to accommodate 42 new living units serving female students on campus. Consistent with other housing updates on campus, Mauck Hall now provides living, social and amenity spaces that meet with today’s student needs. The project included a complete gut with new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, fire alarm, flooring, restroom and showers, paint and casework. The building received all new boilers and mechanical units. Renovations included the Grand Hall and Solarium on the first floor, a renovation of the kitchen on the main level and basement, and a relocation of the laundry suite and fitness area. Interior finishes and common areas were also upgraded throughout to provide better amenities to students. Renovations such as the community laundry and bathrooms and other additions such as the fitness room in the basement help make a more social environment. “Mauck has always been that hidden treasure for the campus,” Associate Dean of Women, Rebekah Dell said. “After all the renovations and additions, now it’s not just this hidden treasure. Now it’s a shining gem on our campus.”
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 14,000 sf renovation 8,000 sf addition
A historic 1890s building brought into the modern age, the Cornice & Slate Building is a shining and elegant example of preserving Detroit’s history.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Cornice & Slate Building Hannah-Neumann/Smith performed a historic renovation to the Neo-Italianate facade of the Cornice & Slate Building, a structure dating back to the 1890s that is on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974. The facade is not made of stone, but rather pressed steel. Renovations were on the second and third floors to accommodate 100 Blue Cross Blue Shield employees. The interior features brick original to the building, and wood support beams that were kept intact by reinforcement with steel. The black framed windows mimic the historical aspect of the building. Locally produced in 1897, the soft common brick walls were left exposed in the interior, adding character to the new offices. The team also restored the wood window sashes on the ornate St. Antoine face of the building. The Cornice & Slate project was implemented under Alteration Level Three in the rehabilitation code. The approach encourages the redevelopment of historical, older and existing buildings by exempting these structures from some of the requirements of the current building code, while still preserving important life safety measures and systems. The project team was able to show the Detroit Building Department our code analyses early in the project. The Building Department was in full agreement with our approach, which was helpful in managing the overall construction tasks required on the project.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 1001 Woodward 42,000 sf 3 Floors 1449 Woodward 40,000 sf 7 Floors
Within its unique restoration, the 100-year old historical building blends co-working spaces with private offices, and common areas with conference rooms.
WeWork
Detroit Incubator Space Looking to join the exciting, evolving work environment currently developing in Detroit, the New York City based co-working space company, WeWork, settled on two high profile downtown locations: three floors at 1001 Woodward Avenue and seven floors at 1449 Woodward Avenue. Within its unique restoration, the 100-year old historical building blends co-working spaces with private offices, and common areas with conference rooms, all while offering direct access to the heart of downtown’s renaissance without a costly investment by tenants. Challenges typical to century old buildings arose while restoring these spaces such as uneven floors and outdated structural designs, however, by integrating historical details with modern decor through the use of glass, exposed ductwork, hardwood floors throughout, and pre-finished aluminum storefronts, Neumann/Smith exceeded the standards in order to create a space that corresponds with WeWork’s various locations around the world.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 2,000 sf
Neumann/Smith retained as much original architectural detail, and as many finishes, as possible during the course of rehabilitation.
Great Lakes Architectural Products Group
Detroit Offices
The pairing of a modern product line set against the architectural backdrop of historic ceilings, wood floors and dramatic replications of original wood arched windows makes the new home of Great Lakes Architectural Products Group (APG) at 1301 Broadway in Detroit an original and imaginative workplace environment. A regional manufacturers’ representative and consulting firm focused on architectural products and building elements, APG selected the perfect space for their business to flourish. Not wanting the design to detract from the main focal point, the architectural products of the company, finishes were kept neutral. The tin ceiling was painted white, and wood floors were simply refinished to their original hue. A raised floor system was utilized to help the electrical distribution of power to workstations and conference rooms. Our floor plan was able to accommodate APG’s modular wall systems and lend itself to future product lines as they hit the market. Project challenges included maxing out ceiling heights to accommodate glass wall partition systems, yet allowing the mechanical infrastructure to navigate the space. During the course of the project, plans had to continually evolve and respond to the accommodation of major ductwork (rated shaft assemblies) traveling vertically through the space to accommodate venting requirements for a first floor restaurant tenant. The use and placement of transparent elements (APG product line) and careful placement of lighting created a “gallery” feel, as seen when you walk through the space, but also perceived from the street level below. The attractive wood replicated wood windows contribute to a view into the depth of the space. From the kitchen area to the open offices and conference areas, Neumann/Smith was able to acclimate prototypical APG design elements (kitchen millwork, casual seating, and glass moveable sliding partitions) into a historic setting with new purpose.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 19,500 sf 6 Floors
Home to Neumann/Smith’s Detroit Design Studio, the Wright-Kay Building is one of Detroit’s oldest buildings.
Bedrock Detroit
Wright-Kay Building Renovations The scope of work included complete restoration of the Wright-Kay Building, originally the Schwankovsky Temple of Music, one of the oldest buildings in downtown Detroit, which houses Neumann/Smith’s design studio and offices of our minority partnership practice, Hannah-Neumann/Smith, LLC. The project called for all new mechanical, electrical, bathrooms and plumbing, new elevators and windows. The project started out as a full historic preservation project, but mid-way through construction a more relaxed approach to the restrictions on demolition and restoration of gutted floors allowed a more M@dison-like “embrace the raw” approach for the tenants. Neumann/Smith chose to stay with the historic preservation approach on their suite. We developed the construction documentation for the suite and developed space plans for floors 2, 5 and 6 for potential future tenants. The third floor was scanned utilizing 3D laser scan technology and the scans were used to develop the detailed preservation scope of the build-out of the floor. The project included all new base mechanical and electrical systems and suite build-out engineering and documentation. Bathrooms were designed to “Bedrock” standards as was the lobby. Facade restoration was also part of the scope. Retail was developed as a “white box” waiting for a tenant.
LOCATION Greenfield Village Dearborn, Michigan SIZE 5,000 sf
The interior of the existing building was completely exposed and renovated to create one large open area for the exhibit.
The Henry Ford
Glass Factory Addition and Renovation Greenfield Village’s Glass Factory had become too small and obsolete for this historic treasure’s expanding needs. Neumann/Smith was selected to design an addition, doubling the size, while sustaining the 19th century look of the building. The interior of the existing building was completely exposed and renovated to create one large open area for the exhibit. Only the building’s foundation and brick were left unchanged. The existing brick and wood trusses were repaired and exposed. The building has all new slate roofing, electrical and lighting, HVAC, windows, doors and security features, all which are concealed to help maintain the historic character. Back-of-house areas for storage, shipping and receiving of glass projects are also masked from public view.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 9,000 sf (interior) plus exterior facade
The completed exterior renovations include new granite, an LED-lit canopy along Cadillac Square and first-floor façade renovations.
NAI Farbman
Cadillac Tower Renovation A premier location for business in Detroit, the 1927 Cadillac Tower is located in the heart of the revitalized Central Business District. Its tenants are comprised of various office, entertainment, restaurant, and communication professionals. To enhance tenant appeal, Neumann/Smith is providing a new design for the 40-story, 350,000 sf office building’s main lobby and mezzanine level. Exterior renovations include new granite, an LED-lit canopy along Cadillac Square and first-floor façade renovations. Interior renovations include an updated entryway, new lobby directories, new tile flooring and wall finishes, new lighting and HVAC system for the lobby, plus a two-story feature wall.
LOCATION Royal Oak, Michigan SIZE 10,500 sf
Sharing space in an old warehouse building, the client wanted to embrace and tie design details to the existing exposed construction.
Jones Lang LaSalle
Hudson Avenue Offices Neumann/Smith provided design services for a consolidation of Jones Lang LaSalle’s Auburn Hills Office and Detroit Headquarters to a new home in Royal Oak. Sharing space in an old warehouse building, the client wanted to embrace and tie design details to the existing exposed construction. This new central location for the company was a key factor in the design, as the company desired to express a young and trendy feel to the space. To enhance collaboration among staff, there are no private offices and an abundance of hoteling spaces. LED technology is placed throughout, and natural lighting creates a vibrant workplace environment. Added windows and upgraded skylighting enhance the workday experience. An outdoor patio and putting green also create a collaborative and social landscape for employees.
LOCATION Marine City, Michigan SIZE 10,500 sf
This historic City Hall has taken on the appearance originally intended, Grand and Inspiring.
Marine City
Historic Town Hall Restoration Phase I involving exterior restoration completed in 2013 included: masonry restoration (removal of egregious coating of shellac resulting in replacement of 20% of soft common brick and tuck-pointing of structure), replacement of historic windows and doors, and reconstruction of historic east porch and main entrances. Phase II interior restoration will be implemented when funding allows, including reactivation of the second floor Victorian theater space. All repairs have been made with historically correct materials. “I just adore the way the building looks now with those new windows and doors going in,” said Judy White, co-founder of Friends of City Hall. “It looks important again. It looks beautiful, and it’s an honor to the city having it look so nice.”
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 7 Units
Fourteen56 has undergone a stunning renovation, and every attention has been paid to preserve the building’s iconic charming details.
Bedrock Detroit
Fourteen56 / 1456 Woodward Located at the southeast corner of John R and Woodward, this distinctive, eightstory building has a Woodward frontage of only 20 feet wide and a John R frontage of 100 feet long, filling the lot to the alley. Fourteen56 has undergone a stunning renovation, and every attention has been paid to preserve the building’s iconic charming details, from the historic terra cotta Italian Renaissance façade, to the marble and wrought iron stairs, to the historically detailed windows, transforming the building into a rare and private residence for discerning tenants. Originally built as a four-story terra-cotta cotta building designed by Richard Raseman in 1916, the Kaiser Blair Clothing building received a four-story addition in 1923. The design of the fifth through eigth floors was coordinated with the earlier building, with matching Chicago-style windows. The Woodward elevation (floors two through six) is a single bay wide containing rows of three pivot windows with transoms. Neumann/Smith provided architectural services for the exterior restoration and interior renovations which will include modifications for seven residential units. Exterior restoration work included limestone and terra cotta cladding, wood window rehabilitation, fire escape repair, and extension of the fire escape from 7th up to 8th floor. Interior renovations included upgrades to six floors for residential units, complete life-safety and mechanical and electrical upgrades.
LOCATION Detroit, Michigan SIZE 39,445 sf
Bedrock Detroit
1515-1529 Woodward Originally built in 1908, and after sitting vacant for decades, the historic GrinnellSanders Buildings were purchased by Bedrock Detroit and sensitively restored to shine again lining Woodward Avenue. Neumann/Smith thoughtfully planned and lead core wand shell improvements, an exterior facade restoration, upgrades to canopy lighting, and provided design services for rooftop programming and access options. The two buildings consist of eight floors plus basement totaling approximately 120,000 square feet, plus an additional 2 penthouse floors. Planned use for both buildings includes basement and ground floor retail with offices on all upper floors.