The first phase of the restoration of the Belle Isle Maintenance building is set to finish this spring, providing a future for one of the island's notable architectural gems.
The
Belle Isle Women's Committee is heading up the restoration of the circa 1895 structure by the Belle Isle Conservatory. The first phase focuses on the exterior of the building, repairing its clay tile work and other aspects that will keep the weather out.
"A lot of it (the roof) was failing," says Ryan Smith, studio director for
Kraemer Design Group which is helping with the restoration. "There were some structural issues. Our job was to make it water tight for the first phase."
The Belle Isle Maintenance Building was designed by George Mason, one of Detroit's most significant architects. Mason designed or helped design a number of major landmarks in the Motor City, such as the Masonic Temple, the Detroit Yacht Club, Gem Theater and the Belle Isle aquarium. He also designed the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.
"He is a prestigious architect for Detroit," Smith says.
The 20,000-square-foot building has fallen into disrepair in recent years due to the elements, wildlife and the occasional squatter. Only a small portion of it is still used by island maintenance staff with the rest of it consisting of storage. A future use of the building has yet to be determined.
The second phase of the restoration will consist of window repair and tuck pointing. That is set to begin later this year.
Source: Ryan Smith, studio director for Kraemer Design Group
Writer: Jon Zemke
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