Architecture is a language, an attitude and an icon that reflects, transforms the sociopolitical world into physical space. We believe architects have to be visionaries which always have the dream to make a better world. Our lifelong effort is to turn the dream into reality. Thinking outside the box, pushing the boundary of architecture are our mission. We believe the power of imagination and great achievements always come with how we could think differently, providing creative solutions to our clients and greater society. We strive to create interesting space, memorable moments, as well as a more sustainable architecture. We keep ask ourselves whether there is a way to achieve a balance between the natural majesty and the dynamic modernity of our cities.
The Big Tree, Detroit
The city of Detroit has become known for its lack of jobs and high poverty, but this was not always the case: it once was one of the most successful cities in the United States. The middle class thrived in Detroit because it was considered by many to be the heart of the American automotive industry. It was home to Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler -- the Big Three. However, in a matter of decades, Detroit went from one of America’s most prosperous cities to one of its most distressed due to financial missteps, racial tensions and leadership lapses.
Today many American cities have lost their individual spirit and identity, becoming more and more similar. Detroit needs to reestablish its own identity by designing an architectural symbol that springs from its own culture and history. Therefore we drew upon the aesthetics of eight of the most iconic Detroit automobiles of all time to conceptualize the kind of architecture that could reflect the city’s past while establishing an ideal for the future. Unlike the Renaissance Center, which is a symbol of traditional concepts of power and strength, our design, The Big Tree, is more about the future and concepts of openness, environmentalism, diversity, and the new economy.
The enormous size and canopy of the building encases residential and business units and provides areas of public space for residents and visitors to congregate, stroll, and enjoy the view of the river and skyline. It will add to the poetic rhythm of the current buildings on Detroit’s skyline but will clearly make a statement about the Detroit of the future.
Client
People
Year
2020
