Modernism in Michigan-Bloomfield Hills - David Lewinski Photography | Show Photo

Design

Brand Labs

Some of the most innovative work done in Southeast Michigan comes from a large, renowned field of top-notch designers, including cool furniture makers in Royal Oak, cutting edge fashion labels in Detroit, and a much-sought-after tile-works in Ann Arbor. And don't forget the gleaming cars that come from the creative minds all over metro Detroit.

Design Features

Made in Michigan: Modernism

Natalie Burg Thursday, June 13, 2013

Michigan is home to an impressive list of inventions and innovations, but few would give a shout out to Modern design. Cranbrook, the state's Historic Preservation Office, and Preserve America would like to change that. This week launches an effort to raise awareness about the Mitten's profound contributions to American Modernism.

Michigan Hosts the Architectural & Industrial Design Event of the Year

Brian Conway, Michigan State Historic Preservation Officer Thursday, May 23, 2013

State Historic Preservation Office launches blockbuster show June 14 at Cranbrook Art Museum in Bloomfield Hills.

Walking The Talk: ISCG Creates Its Own Inspired Workplace

Kim North Shine Thursday, March 07, 2013

ISCG in Royal Oak has long been designing workplaces for clients with an eye toward rehabilitation and re-use. Last year the firm put its money where its mouth was and became its own client. The building? The discarded Royal Radio building on Main Street. The results speak for themselves.

Designer Genes: The McGowen Brothers

Kim North Shine Thursday, January 17, 2013

Homecoming isn't just an event for Rochester's McGowen brothers, it's a philosophy. Over four generations, the family has made their home furnishings and interior design business a place where locals always felt welcome. Returning from stints in L.A., siblings Jonathan and David have decided to pick up the family legacy, opening shops across the street from one another.

Guest Blogger: Megan O'Connell

Megan O'Connell Thursday, October 11, 2012

In an economy increasingly tilted towards service businesses, it's Detroit's artisans who are leaving a tangible imprint on the city's culture. Megan O'Connell, founder of Salt & Cedar Letterpress, writes about the unconventional funding of her press, mapping objects and stories, and the press as a cultural cache.

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Design Blogs

Mark Nickita

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Ideally Detroit's buildings should be as changeable as a set of Legos; the reality is a bit different. Architect Mark Nickita, co-founder of Archive Design Studio, returns to write about the repositioning of under-producing properties and why cities are best seen on foot.

Nick Britsky

Thursday, September 09, 2010

There is a method behind the madness associated with creations like a Red Green Robot or a Cupcake Electric Vehicle, we promise. Their inventor, i3 Detroit hackerspace co-founder Nick Britsky, is here to talk this week about his community toolbox, the Maker Movement, and the state of DIY.

Norm Silk

Thursday, April 29, 2010

"There came a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." �Anais Nin. Take it from Norm Silk, owner of Blossoms florist, who discusses the growth and challenges (the Iceland volcano) of the floral industry. Then follow his rehab of Detroit's only Frank Lloyd Wright property, and progress report on the Woodward Avenue Action Association's work on 6 to 8 Mile's commercial strip.

Charlie Wollborg

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Metro Detroit recently got its own version of the venerable Chautauqua gathering of thinkers with the inaugural TEDx Detroit intellectual and creative conference. This week, TEDx organizer and ad man Charlie Wollborg, founder of Curve Detroit Advertising, Marketing & Design, presents another Chautauqua of the mind with his collection of videos aimed at refilling Michigan's economic fountain of ideas.

Michael Poris

Thursday, July 23, 2009

From a master plan for North Corktown to designing public spaces for the Michigan Opera, Michael Poris, has his hand all over downtown Detroit. A principal of architectural firm McIntosh Poris Associates, Michael continues to offer up solutions for the city's revival. Key points: Down with demolition and a call for an economic development czar.

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Design Videos

Can You say "Pecha Kucha"?

Tom Hendrickson Thursday, March 05, 2009

From Istanbul to Indianapolis, Dresden to Detroit, Pecha Kucha is spreading. No, it's not a fungus. It's Show n' Tell for smart people. Designers, artists, architects, filmmakers and all species of creatives get roughly 7 minutes and 20 slides to strut their stuff. Innovation is a must. Mileage may vary.

College For Creative Studies

Tom Hendrickson Thursday, November 13, 2008

For nearly 100 years the College for Creative Studies has influenced the world of design. From automobiles and advertising to fine art and film, its students represent the creative class professionals Michigan needs to transform its economy and communities.

RTT, USA

Tom Hendrickson Thursday, June 05, 2008

The virtual world is their oyster. Royal Oak's RTT, USA has turned its virtual prototyping technology into a must-use strategy for companies developing new products. It can then use that same technology to virtually market the product to an endless Internet audience. Cool.

Laptop Design

Tom Hendrickson Thursday, April 24, 2008

Think of them as high-tech tattoos. Dearborn's Laptop Design customizes your computer to express your brand, identity or fetish. From company logos to famous works of art to personal photographs, they can transform your laptop or keyboard into the ultimate fashion statement.

Media Genesis

Tom Hendrickson Thursday, February 28, 2008

The name kinda says it all, don't it? This Troy-based firm has it all: developers, programmers, video artists and motion designers. And clients come from all over the country to tap their talents. The appropriately named The Come Ons provide the soundtrack to our 21/2 minute journey.

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