Detroit Riverfront Proposal
Civic Waterfront Regeneration Concept in Detroit
This design competition proposal reimagines Detroit’s harbor as a vibrant civic waterfront, reconnecting the city to the river through architecture, public space, and cultural programming. Conceived as part of an international call to rethink Detroit’s riverfront, the project explores how bold architectural gestures and carefully scaled public spaces can catalyze urban renewal.
Urban Design & Civic Architecture
Competition Proposal.
Project Overview
Developed as a design competition entry for the revitalization of Detroit’s central riverfront, this proposal addresses the critical interface between downtown Detroit and the waterfront. The project envisions a mixed-use civic destination where architecture, landscape, and public life are seamlessly integrated.
Rather than treating the waterfront as a passive edge, the proposal transforms it into an active urban spine—designed to host daily life, cultural events, and social interaction while restoring Detroit’s relationship with the river.
Project Data
Location: Detroit Riverfront, Detroit, Michigan
Project type: Urban design & architectural competition proposal
Scope: Waterfront master planning, public space, and civic architecture
Urban Design Strategy
The proposal is structured around connectivity and continuity. Pedestrian promenades, landscaped paths, and public plazas extend the city grid toward the water, creating a layered sequence of open spaces that encourage movement, pause, and gathering.
Topography is used strategically to shape views, manage transitions, and frame key moments along the river’s edge—allowing the waterfront to be experienced from multiple elevations and perspectives.
Architectural Concept
A sculptural, cantilevered building anchors the master plan, acting as both a civic landmark and a social condenser. Elevated volumes create shaded public space at ground level while opening uninterrupted river views from above.
Transparency and lightness define the architectural expression, allowing interior programs to remain visually connected to the surrounding public realm. The building is conceived not as an isolated object, but as an extension of the landscape—hovering above the riverfront promenade.
Public Life & Programming
At ground level, the project prioritizes human-scale experiences. Cafés, exhibition areas, and flexible public spaces activate the waterfront throughout the day and into the evening. The architecture frames outdoor seating, event zones, and informal gathering areas, reinforcing the riverfront as a destination rather than a corridor.
The design anticipates year-round use, with protected walkways, layered landscaping, and adaptable public spaces supporting Detroit’s seasonal climate.
A Vision for Waterfront Renewal
Although not selected as the winning proposal, the Detroit Riverfront project remains a clear expression of Ginard Studio’s approach to complex urban sites: concept-driven, people-focused, and architecturally ambitious. The proposal demonstrates an early commitment to civic responsibility, placemaking, and design as a catalyst for urban transformation.
