EASTERN MARKET PUBLIC PATIO

This pop-up Public Patio project, completed in partnership with Eastern Market Corporation (EMC), encouraged people to spend more time in the market district and focused on measuring the impact of placemaking strategies. With funding from the Knight Foundation, EMC acquired tables, chairs and umbrellas with the intent to enhance visitors’ experience and support local businesses. The Detroit Collaborative Design Center developed design strategies for the placemaking units and analyzed their impact. The project strengthened EMC’s relationships with district businesses and resulted in an ongoing Public Patio deployment plan. 

Goals of the Public Patio included: animating existing spaces and creating new public spaces in order to contribute to EMC’s efforts to support a lively public life in the Market; encouraging people to linger when visiting the Market year-round; learning how people use public space through the placemaking unit; building better relationships with Eastern Market businesses and improving business activity in the district.

Detroit Collaborative Design Center, 2016

Role: Project Director & Senior Designer

Partners: Eastern Market Corporation, Knight Foundation, Eastern Market businesses