Two New York City firms have joined forces to revitalize a derelict neighborhood in Detroit, Michigan, with a series of adaptive reuse projects.
Peterson Rich Office (PRO) and the Office of Strategy and Design (OSD) worked together to transform the neighborhood known as Little Village, replacing what was a series of parking lots, alleyways, and vacant lots with an interlocking series of parks centered around a pedestrian walkway dubbed the Nave. Formerly a desolate alley, the Nave leads to a 110-year-old Romanesque church that has been repurposed into a cultural arts center called The Shepherd.
According to an Architect Magazine article that details the project, PRO was careful to honor the church’s integrity while modifying it to accommodate new programming such as gallery spaces, live performances, and art installations. The Shepherd opened in late 2024 with a retrospective on the life and career of prominent Detroit artist Charles McGee (1942–2021), creator of the “Unity” mural seen on the exterior of the Detroit Institute of Arts. Little Village also honors the artist with the Charles McGee Legacy Park, which features large-scale sculptures McGee conceptualized before his death.
The Little Village Library, which was curated by Asmaa Walton of Black Art Library and honors artists of color who have made significant contributions to the arts in Michigan, is also housed within the Shepherd.
The Little Village project was conceived by Anthony and JJ Curis, co-founders of Library Street Collective, an art gallery supporting Detroit’s burgeoning arts scene. And the project is ongoing; it was announced in May that Little Village will soon expand to include a waterfront redevelopment.
“The Shepherd reshapes an institution that built community around religion, to one that will build community around the arts,” PRO Principals Miriam Peterson and Nathan Rich said in a joint statement to Architect Magazine. “Anthony and JJ's commitment to expanding access to arts in the city of Detroit is nothing short of transformational. Our firm is honored to play a role in this special project.”
In addition to the Shepherd, other adaptive-reuse projects within the Little Village campus include:
- ALEO: A boutique bed-and-breakfast aimed at hosting artists and guests seeking a cultural retreat. Featuring works from nearly 30 Detroit artists or those with deep Detroit roots, ALEO also serves as the headquarters for McArthur Binion’s Foundation and nonprofit organization Modern Ancient Brown, which provides residencies, mentorship, and resources to BIPOC artists and writers
- Bridgehouse: Two former farmhouses that have been converted into culinary spaces by Ishtiaq Rafiuddin of Detroit-based studio, Undecorated. Bridgehouse will feature a new pâtisserie (a bakery specializing in pastries and sweets) by James Beard award-winning chef Warda Bouguettaya
- Father Forgive Me: A cocktail bar that will occupy the church’s former garage
- The LANTERN: A former-bakery-turned-mixed-use space housing arts non-profits, affordable artists’ studies, and a recording studio for a local record label, as well as retail and culinary endeavors.
Detroit Revitalization Efforts Ongoing
The Little Village project is just one piece in the yearslong, ongoing efforts to revitalize the Motor City.
The city was named to the Best Place to Go in North America & the Caribbean in 2024 list by Condé Nast Traveler, and Where to Go in 2024 by AFAR.
"This recognition of Detroit is a testament to Detroiters and their hospitality that reveals to visitors and locals alike a sense of the possible, all done with a smile or knowing head nod,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, in a statement on the organization’s website. “Detroit’s recognition is a source of pride for all Michiganders and highlights the collective efforts of the state's vibrant communities, innovative entrepreneurs and dedicated workforce that make our state a remarkable place to live and visit. As we celebrate this honor, trust and believe, we know that we must continue to invest in the city to sustain the momentum that this recognition underscores.”
How can GPRS Assist Adaptive Reuse Projects?
GPRS 3D laser scanning services empower architects with detailed 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM), enabling them to design adaptive reuse and retrofit initiatives. This allows for the exploration of various building aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability strategies within a virtual environment.
Using the most advanced laser scanning technology, GPRS deploys expert Project Managers to accurately capture the precise dimensions and measurements of your project site.
The GPRS Mapping & Modeling Team provides comprehensive point cloud data, 2D CAD drawings, and 3D BIM models to enhance project collaboration and coordination.
GPRS Intelligently Visualizes The Built World® to keep your projects on time, on budget, and safe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What deliverables can GPRS provide?
We can provide 3D modeling in many formats such as:
- Point Cloud Data (Raw Data)
- 2D CAD Drawings
- 3D Non-Intelligent Models
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- JetStream Viewer
Customizable Deliverables Upon Request:
- Aerial Photogrammetry
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- Floor Flatness Analysis/Contour Mapping
- New Construction Accuracy Analysis/Comparative Analysis
- Point Cloud Modeling Training Webinars
- Reconciliation of Clients 2D Design Drawings
- Reconciliation of Clients 3D Design Model
- Structural Steel Shape Probability Analysis
- Template Modeling
- Volume Calculations
- Wall Plumb Analysis
What are the benefits of 3D laser scanning?
- Millions of real-world data points: A single laser can capture up to a million 3D data points per second, providing incredibly rich detail of every aspect of your project
- Eliminate error: Individual measurements acquired by tape measures or hand-held devices are subject to errors. Laser scanning is the most accurate form of measurement available, delivering accuracy of a few millimeters or less
- Answers unanticipated questions: How many times have you left the job site only to discover you need a few more measurements? A 3D BIM scanning will capture extra data, eliminating the need to return to the project to answer unanticipated questions
- Reduce change orders and waste: The cost of a laser scan pales in comparison to the cost of change orders and construction delays. Incorporating a laser scan into the design of your project assures accurate and complete information, avoiding costly headaches, clashes and wasted material during the construction phase
- Minimize shut-down times: Laser scanning is quick, safe and non-intrusive – eliminating or minimizing operational shutdowns and client inconvenience
- Increase safety: 3D scanning can obtain measurements in hazardous locations while keeping workers out of harm’s way
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