This project is the result of my Thesis work at Cranbrook Academy of Art in the Architecture Department. The project exists in two layers: the first is a speculative project for Detroit, and the second part is a full scale section of my proposed design built as a display for the larger speculative project.
The Detroit Living History Museum is a speculative architectural project for the city of Detroit. If built, the project would not only stand as a monument to the current state of life in Detroit but would also serve as a catalyst for the future of the city.
The design is based on a modular concrete system, with wall openings of a standardized size. Each opening in the structure would feature a portrait of a citizen of Detroit, along with their personal narrative, as seen in the panel to the right. A variety of different citizens would be featured, and the profiles would be frequently rotated. Traditional museums focus on artifacts; in contrast, by using a narrative based exhibition the museum will emotionally connect visitors to Detroit. The emotional connection each visitor feels will prompt a discussion on how to proceed with issues in the city.
After a certain amount of time, the building would no longer be used as a museum. The dialogue created would help determine the future of the city and, more specifically, the future of the building itself.
By creating a physical manifestation of the current collapse in our way of life, we are able to acknowledge that collapse, move past it and restore the American Dream.
This project not only recognizes that life and architecture are ever changing, but it becomes a place to facilitate such change. As Detroit continues to evolve, how will this building evolve with it? Will Detroit continue to deteriorate with another empty building, or will the dialogue created here lead to something great for the city?
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