Detroit Startup Week | Fireside Chat: Music + Entrepreneurship feat. Big Sean, Google & Def Jam6/23/2018 Detroit Startup Week had a ton of GREAT events for entrepreneurs and business owners. These informative sessions were held throughout the city this week, all hosted by amazing businesspeople. So many featured valuable insight shared with the crowd learn and it is a really valuable place for meeting like-minded people while networking.
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The Henry Ford Museum hosted a conversation about design , "How to Grow a Chair," featuring Berlin-based designers Burkhard Schmitz and Carola Zwick, co-founders of Studio 7.5. Studio 7.5 is the design force behind the Cosm chair. This chair was created in collaboration with Herman Miller and marks the fourth time the studio has teamed up with the iconic furniture company. The talk provided insight into their design and fabrication process during the development of the Cosm for Herman Miller. How to Grow a Chair | Studio 7.5's Design Process "We learned so much by assembling everything wrong" "A lot of things went wrong." Carola Zwick confessed lightheartedly, during the initial development stages of the Cosm chair. She said that a team of eight basically had 120 seconds to act fast before the polyurethane dried as they were working through prototypes, making it impossible to modify after that blink-of-an-eye timeframe. Ms Zwick said another challenge surrounding the "Cosm" came from the intricate design of the teeth- a major component of the chair's unparalleled suspension. "We had to count line by line. One line resulted in entirely different sitting experience. " The designers worked to create a piece of furniture that would seamlessly translate funtion and comfort into a single chair. "It’s not an armrest- it’s an elbow cradle." "Our first iteration scared our client," joked Burkhard Schmitz, noting that the "elephant ears" were an unconventional, yet important aspect of the design. He went on to mention the "leaf arms" that are integral to the overall design and functionality of this chair-- the potentially overlooked elbow support. But don't call them arm rests! Mr. Schmitz refers to them as "elbow cradles," highlighting the importance of getting this particular part right. "A chair should be designed like a bicycle- not a car." An interesting declaration from Burkhard Schmitz was that approach to designing a chair should be akin to designing a bike-- not a vehicle. The designers made a concerted effort to follow in the footsteps of Charles & Ray Eames: with the intent to design with great attention to every detail. "We were able to think about entire family of chairs. All provide diff sitting experience but able to use same design." The studio was able to illustrate the manufacturing process first-hand to the fabricators at Herman Miller. The designers travelled to the Zeeland, Michigan facility and taught their design methods for the chair at the Herman Miller Design Yard. And although it was a challenge to replicate exactly, they were able to find a solution and produce a high-quality, specialized chair, uniformly. Designers from around Detroit were showcased at the Edison Boat Club, which is juxtaposed between nature and industry.
This event was an exploration of Adaptive Reuse, with various projects featured. Hosted by Design Core, this informative session was a pictorial display of what’s going on in and around the city. The event itself was not only informative— but fun. From the corn hole tournaments goin’ down on the lawn to the seriously chill sailboats gliding by— the laid-back island setting, with the backdrop of the Detroit River, was beyond anything I had imagined. Add the Conners Creek Power Plant into the mix and it was as sublime a scene as that Pink Floyd Battersea Power Station album cover, “Animals.” Architecture and Design firms are creating a ton of projects within the city of Detroit and beyond that incorporate redeveloping buildings and spaces into viable places for us to work, live and gather. Organizations that participated in yesterday’s gallery of work included Detroit Future City, Michigan Historic Preservation Network, the City of Detroit’s Department of Planning & Development, DNR's Outdoor Adventure Center, KRM Architecture and SmithGroup JJR. Some structures are completed— such as The Foundation Hotel, whose architects transformed an abandoned fire station into a boutique hotel and restaurant, while other projects— such as Ford’s Wagner Place, transforming a former hotel into a workspace and parking structure-- are underway. This was perfect timing, as Ford formally announced its acquisition of Michigan Central Train Station only days ago. The corporation plans to renovate and eventually set up shop in the abandoned Beaux-Arts structure, an exciting announcement that means even more potential changes for the city in the near future. Detroit Public Television produced a documentary that highlights the influence that Detroit architecture had on the world entitled "Detroit Designs the World." The piece premieres on DPTV this Saturday, June 9th at 5 pm. The film traces the work and impact of architects Mies Van der Rohe, Minoru Yamasaki, Albert Kahn and Eero Saarinen and features renown buildings around Detroit- including the Highland Park Plant, Cranbrook, the Fisher Building and Lafayette Park. The "Detroit Designs the World" reception + screening was held on the campus of Lawrence Technological University. After the preview, there was a panel discussion led by Olga Stella, the Executive Director of Design Core Detroit. The discussion after the documentary focused on the city's unique architectural past, present and future. The panel included Rainy Hamilton Jr., President, Owner and Principal of Hamilton Anderson, Robert Sandler from the Architectural firm Yamasaki Inc., and Professor of Architecture and Associate Department Chair of Architecture at Lawrence Tech, Dr. Dale Gyure. Panelists discussed everything from Detroit's designation as a UNESCO City of Design, how the city's architectural works are still falling under the radar and how the architectural work previously coming out of Detroit was overshadowed by the auto industry.
There were some differing viewpoints, as Dr. Gyure noted that Michigan is starting to become a model in architecture for other states. It was stated that Detroit is becoming a leader in preservation. The talk continued and touched upon how things in Detroit are coming together and the hope is that we don’t shift gears in regard to the vast amount of preservation that is going on in buildings around Detroit. The city itself has an opportunity born out of a series of unique circumstances. Detroit fell apart and can be put back together again. The hope is that we don’t follow shiny new model of architecture where everything [buildings] is brand new. Because we don’t have to do that. In closing, Mr. Hamilton said, "We are creating the next chapter. We have to figure it out and it's challenging." We've got a chance to do something that nobody’s done before. Now that Spring finally showed her smiling face--- lawn games are back in a major way. Bocce is the best of all (because its my fave). And while there's a few places in Detroit that offer this game of drunken skill and chance--- the spot I love is Ottava Via. This Italian restaurant is luxe on the inside and chill on the outside. Let's focus on the outdoor space since the weather is nice. This is the place that screams late-night date night. Beautiful plants and flowers are spilling from everywhere on the patio. Grab a seat around a table in a cute selection of mis-matched retro chairs that, once upon a time- belonged in a classroom. Check out the wood-burning brick oven in the corner, nice touch. Now let's get down to business: The bocce court. Grab your drinks and that lady by the hand because you're playin' bocce now. Toss that clay ball to the other side. Help her with her form. Twinkling lights are strung above the bocce court for added ambiance. Pro Tip: Weekdays. Bocce is available on a first-come, first served basis. We've been here during the day and night. It's generally easier to snag a spot in the daylight hours, plus- then you have the added bonus of day-drinking. But we've also been here at night when nobody is playing- it's all about timing.
Time to get out of that cave you call home and explore some sculptures that are chillin' around town- kinda waiting for you to check them out. Detroit has a ton of pieces created by world renown artist.
All you need are your Adidas and some time, and you'll be ready to rumble- art style. Here's a map of some contenders to get you started. "Gracehoper" Another sculpture located within walking distance, also located on the grounds of the DIA is the ”Gracehoper." Created by artist Tony Smith, this massive piece was created in the early-seventies, in the minimalist style. “Spirit of Detroit” Sculptor Marshall Fredericks’ “Spirit of Detroit” is located in downtown Detroit. He’s the mascot of the city. Sitting on Woodward between Jefferson and Larned, this hulking green giant made of bronze is here to keep steadfast even as the times change around him. The best part is when he dons a jersey in support of the local sports teams. “Helios Trail” “Helios Trail” can be found at Wayne State, College of Engineering. This modern piece was created to signify the future. The stainless steel sculpture resembles a bolt and was made by Bruce White and installed in the late-eighties. “Untitled” Detroit artist Ed Sykes made “Untitled” in 2001. This modernistic creation can be found on the intersection of West Warren and Anthony Wayne Drive. This sculpture is amazing in structure and design. The piece was commissioned in commemoration of Wayne State Professor Andrzej Olbrot. “Monument to Joe Louis” The “Monument to Joe Louis” was created by Robert Graham. This larger-than-life piece is suspended from dual triangles. “The Fist” was created in honor of the infamous boxer, and is located in close proximity to Joe Louis Arena, in downtown Detroit. The art is located on Jefferson Avenue at Woodward Avenue. “The Thinker” Auguste Rodin’s “The Thinker” sculpture is one of eleven statues in the United States cast of the same figure. The sculpture is made of bronze and sits in front of the Detroit Institute of Arts on a pedestal. Related: Art in Detroit | A Sculptural Adventure It's all fun & games until someone loses an eye. Which didn't happen. Even though sword-fighting was involved. Lots of swords and armor. It was great. This all went down at the Koi Festival on Belle Isle. In it's second year, the fest was bigger and better than the inaugural event held last year. The Koi Festival celebrates Asian culture, specifically the traditions of Japan. The festival takes the place of the unique Detroit tradition of the Koi Transfer, which isn't happening because the fish have a heated pond now, stay tuned for their feature on Cribs, Aquatic Edition. So no buckets required, but still an awesome time. There were live performances courtesy of the Great Lakes Taiko Center Drum ensemble and an action-packed demonstration of traditional combat-fighting styles from the Detroit Kendo Dojo Martial Arts. Those were the squad with the swords. They were bamboo- not metal--- but they still packed a punch and you could def hear when someone got hit. The Belle Isle Conservancy knocked themselves out this year, introducing a ton of traditional Japanese games for kids, and new things to discover-- Ikebana! The Japanese floral designs were in the Conservatory- the perfect spot for flowers. So although I'm kinda sad about not scooping our Koi friends up into buckets--- I am totally excited to visit the Koi in their permanent home and celebrate them at the Koi Festival. See ya next year! Related: Koi Transfer at Belle Isle For the Naturalist If serenity is what you crave, head over to William G. Milliken State Park, located on the Detroit River. A lighthouse welcomes visitors to the park, which was established as one of the first urban parks in Michigan. The area features natural wetlands, making it a prime spot to see a songbird or two. Watch sailboats glide along the waterfront or roam the grounds, which are filled with vibrant flowers. Visiting this treasure won’t set you back a penny- there’s even complimentary parking at Rivard Plaza. This is Part III of the Series, "See Detroit Without Spending a Dime." Stay tuned for more places to check out in the city.
Previous Segments: For the Creative: Pewabic Pottery For the Explorer: Dequindre Cut + Greenway For the Explorer Put the pedal to the metal and explore the D while rolling down the Dequindre Cut on two wheels. This paved bike and pedestrian path follows the same route as the Grand Trunk Railroad once did. It doesn't matter if you’re seated on a bicycle built for two or a cruiser- riding along this greenway is a great way to take a break from a hectic day. From the leafy trees to the graffiti art that adorns the overpasses, this place is worth the visit. Don’t own a bike? No problem, use what your mama gave ya and walk the trail on foot or rent a cycle from the lovely folks over at Wheelhouse Detroit. Dequindre Cut + Greenway Detroit Riverfront and Dequindre Detroit, MI 48423 This is Part II of the Series, "See Detroit Without Spending a Dime." Stay tuned for more places to check out in the city.
If there’s one thing that’s true about Detroit, it’s that there is Always Something Going On. ALWAYS. The best thing is, there are a Ton of things to do that don't cost anything. We've got everyone from the nature lover to the cultural maven covered with a list of adventures that won’t break the bank--- because they’re all free! For the Creative Ever look up at the technicolor ceiling at the Guardian Building? Remember riding the People Mover and seeing that tile mural that looks like it came straight outta The Wiz? These tiles were created at Pewabic Pottery- a unique school and studio combo. Pewabic is known for producing this style of ceramic art which adorns countless buildings throughout Detroit and beyond. Lucky for us, it is located within city limits and welcomes visitors daily. Learn about the process during a free guided studio tour or browse through the collection in the retail space. Don’t forget to check out the adjacent showroom and take a peek at the gallery upstairs. Pewabic Pottery & Ceramics
10125 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48214 (313) 626-2000 Psst: -This place is best for: When Parent Visits/After Weekend Brunch -Take the Guided Tour! -To see the tiles in action, sign up for Pure Detroit's free guided tours This is Part I of the Series, "See Detroit Without Spending a Dime." Stay tuned for more places to check out in the city. |
AuthorAll images & text ©Nicole Wrona
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