Brush Park Townhomes

Multi-Family Development
Location: Detroit, MI
Photos: Marty Peters (Exteriors), Jason Keen (Interiors)

2016 Congress on New Urbanism Grand Prize Winner

Project Description:

The Brush Park townhomes are an exercise in respectful development. This neighborhood has a strong sense of history; there are currently mansions that remain as reminders of a different era. As a result, it was of utmost importance that these new townhomes be designed to look as though they belong there.

Reinvigorating this abandoned neighborhood required being extremely mindful of its history and scale while creating opportunities to elevate the urban landscape and introduce modern living.

Thoughtful decision-making drove not only the size and location of these buildings – materials and the experience of “being there” were all curated to both complement and modernize the neighborhood.

The first floor is raised above ground level to match the existing buildings, while planters and landscaping are also elevated to bring nature closer to the living space. This fosters a connection between the homeowner and the outside environment.

Large expanses of glass are used to bring light and views of the city in. Simple brick was selected in colors that tie into the palette of the existing historic buildings. Lastly, the scale of the townhomes was kept in harmony with surrounding buildings so as not to overwhelm the streetscape.

Construction is estimated to begin in 2017.