Image courtesy Bedrock
New York-based firm ODA will design the Book Tower, an adaptive-reuse project in Detroit, Michigan.
The 45,221-m2 (486,760-sf) structure, designed by Louis Kamper in 1916 in an Italian Renaissance style, was originally built as an office tower and took a decade to complete.
An extensive restoration of the exterior was recently completed, including the ornamental cornice complete with caryatid statues. More than 2000 windows were also replaced. A historic art glass skylight will be brought back to its original splendor by ODA.
ODA will update and expand Book Tower’s programming and existing structures, creating 46,452 m2 (500,000 sf) of residential, hospitality, retail, and office space for the 38-story landmark. The building occupants will share amenity spaces throughout the different levels as well as entertaining spaces on the roof of the building.
“The objective is to add a forward-looking, mixed-use program to Detroit’s growing downtown that will meet the needs of businesses, visitors, and residents alike,” said Eran Chen, founding principal of ODA.
