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D.C. Architect Proposes Lofts, Offices and Outdoor Music Venue for Hudson's Site

May 16, 2013, 1:11 PM by  Allan Lengel

A D.C. architectural firm plans to propose a building on the old Hudson's site in downtown Detroit that would include offices, lofts and a public park with an outdoor music venue.

Chuck Witmer, the principle for Start Architects, said he'll submit the plan later this month as part of the Dan Gilbert's Opportunity Detroit contest, which is soliciting proposals internationally for the Hudson's site. The first prize wins $15,000; second $5,000 and third, $2,500. The deadline to enter is May 31.

Witmer shared his proposal with Deadline Detroit.

The company narrative for the project goes like this: 

It fits. It's unassuming. It's gritty. It's not modern or contemporary...It's progressive by being regressive.

The ground floor is completely open and adaptable to change. It is designed to be an all inclusive space for every citizen of the city to use. Above the ground floor are 2 buildings. One has loft style residences and the other has open office space. The tower is probably the most gratuitiuos and bold move on this site, but it is the most necessary. The intention is to bring attention to the city of Detroit and attract visitors to traverse to the top and experience the city from a whole new prospective often only available to the privileged.

 
The tower concept can be seen below.
 
A rendering of the interior of the building.



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