A complete transformation at the corner of Grand River Avenue and Griswold Street took an effective partnership and a vision of the future.
The project features 218 furnished micro-loft apartments, each an average of 260 square feet in size. Features include a double bed, hidden storage, 10-foot cushioned window seat, full bath, kitchen with a full-sized refrigerator, double burner countertop and microwave, 47-inch flat screen TV, utilities, and Rocket Fiber gigabit high-speed internet. Each unit also includes a 36-inch diameter table and chair, large windows with views of Capitol Park, controlled access, and the building meets Energy Star certification.
Prior to development, the space had sat vacant for some time – and now a new building stands tall as the first ground-up construction project in downtown Detroit’s Central Business District since the 1980s. The 13-story building is approximately 101,000 square feet in size. It features glass fronting with first-floor retail space. Approximately 1,700 pre-cast concrete wall sections were lifted and set into place to create both interior and exterior walls.
The $27 million, 101,000 square foot building features 218 furnished micro-lofts; 133 market-rate lofts and 85 for residents who qualify for low-income housing tax credits.
Amenities include:
- 3,500 SF of community space
- Second-story community lounge and kitchen
- Outdoor terrace
- Fitness center
- On-site laundry
- Ground-floor bike storage
- 4,500 SF of ground-floor retail space
A goal of the site was to create affordable living downtown with utilities, Rocket Fiber high speed Internet and other amenities included in rent.
Over 15 months, the team constructed the new building. Working on a tight corner with ongoing construction work nearby, the schedule was daunting and clear communication with the city and nearby businesses was imperative.