Reuse / Rebuild

Just because a space has been abandoned does not mean it is no longer useful. Entrepreneurs, artists, city officials, activists and neighbors, with the right amount of ambition and innovation, can take vacant spaces and turn them into opportunities. By transforming what we already have into sustainable properties, we revitalize neighborhoods and stimulate local economies.

Reuse / Rebuild Features

Freshwater Metropolis in words and pictures: More than a concept

Matthew Lewis and Doug Coombe Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Now here's a two-for-one treat for our growing blue/green Detroit infrastructure readership: a springtime feature by project editor Matthew Lewis on rain gardens and an equally springy slideshow by photographer Doug Coombe.

Old buildings with new uses inspire development

Natalie Burg Sunday, March 17, 2013

Sometimes it seems historic preservation and economic development are at odds with one another, but innovative business owners across Michigan are proving otherwise. Learn how entrepreneurs in Pontiac, Ypsilanti and Lansing are blending the two to create neighborhood growth.

Urban trailblazing: New series looks for trends before they happen

Francis Grunow Tuesday, February 12, 2013

We begin with a forward-thinking critique of Detroit Future City by urbanist-preservationist-Detroit advocate Francis Grunow, who, by day, is a public policy consultant for New Solutions Group. By night, yes, he'll be burning the critical midnight oil for Model D.

From vacant to vibrant: A coalition rises

Jon Zemke Tuesday, January 08, 2013

Educating community activists about the resources and best practices available for improving the quality of life in Detroit neighborhoods is the mission of the Vacant Property Coalition. Jon Zemke talks local empowerment with the group's Janai Gilmore.

No property left behind recapped

Matthew Lewis Tuesday, December 04, 2012

A standing room crowd squeezed into a pop-up space in Lafayette Park to listen to members of Loveland Technologies, county officials and other land reuse experts talk about tax reverted Detroit properties. Matthew Lewis took a bunch of notes.

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