• Commercial,  Form,  Print Edition

    Refined kinetics

    Within the nationally registered historic walls of the Federal Reserve Building in Detroit’s Financial District, a net has been cast; infusing a nearly 4,400-square-foot ground level space with an intentional design aesthetic capturing the more ethereal qualities of a modern sushi restaurant’s brand. Original text by: R.J. Weick Photos courtesy EE Berger Read more in the print edition

  • Form

    Illustrating spaces

    Straight Line Design’s team of professional designers and staff carry their company motto with them every time they walk into a new client meeting. “Our tagline is ‘it’s your home, make it great,’” said Randy Ruter, owner of Straight Line Design. “We believe it. We are honored to be asked to help with the design and the creation of a…

  • Form

    Modern Legacy

    A historic preservation initiative is opening the pages on Michigan’s storied role with modernism. Michigan, while recognized for its prowess in shaping the automobile and furniture-making industries, is not often credited for its integral role in influencing modern design and modernism in America. The Michigan State Historic Preservation Office became acutely aware of this fact while undertaking a major initiative…

  • Form

    Elements of design: an architect’s perspective.

    Cornwell Architects, an architectural design firm located in Traverse City, has been leaving its mark in the region since 1948. Throughout the years, the firm has worked on a number of notable projects, such as: the TACS Boathouse on Boardman Lake, the renovation of the historic Miliken Place building, the TBA Credit Union Corporate Headquarters, Elmwood Township Fire Hall, and…

  • Form

    Wood canvas

    A family-owned company in the region brings unique hardwood flooring and staircase solutions to residential and commercial spaces. There is a classic elegance to hardwoods. Its timeless appearance, durability, and functional performance add warmth and style to a home. While the applications of hardwoods are endless, it is often found in hand-crafted furnishings, rich trim around the perimeter of the…

  • Creative Endeavors

    A creative process

    An Indianapolis-based designer has taken her love of design from fashion to interiors in a region rich with historical architecture.   Located less than five miles north of downtown Indianapolis, homes and gardens throughout the Meridian-Kessler residential neighborhood have opened their doors each summer to welcome visitors inside to view great design and architecture. The Meridian-Kessler Neighborhood Association has hosted…

  • Form

    A custom experience built on the details

    A Holland firm gives custom home building a whole new meaning. For Mike Schaap Builders Inc., the devil—and difference—is in the details. Since 1986, the Holland-based company established by Mike Schaap has specialized in crafting one-of-a-kind custom homes tailored to individual clients’ needs right down to when they take their morning coffee. “Nothing is ever too custom; each design is unique and…

  • Form

    Through the work of art

    A Michigan-based architectural firm’s design process is proving ‘a picture is worth a thousand words.’ The West Michigan-based Visbeen Architects Inc. has more than two decades of experience with retail, commercial, and residential projects; and it is a firm known for its rather unique method for bringing a client’s dream to reality. Its founder and president, Wayne Visbeen, is not…