The automobile industry may have intensified Detroit, but it is also the leading cause of the city’s current demise. It not only is ironic, but sad, that the car is no longer an efficient way to travel Detroit. The Discovery Center is located off of a main bus route—now one of the best ways to travel. The Center is also located in an area of Detroit with many places of interest—art and history museums, science centers and libraries— and the form of the Center aims to draw people from these places. The Center consists of three winding strands in which similar programs are housed: science and art, education and application, and production and presentation. The space was designed with the belief that ideas can come from anywhere, and influence is essential inside of the building for the lab to function to its fullest potential. Multiple exterior spaces strive to bring influence from the public. The intersections of the three strands provide optimal opportnity for heightened collaboration. Two strands were given diff erent materiality to represent the old and new Detroit, and symbolize the individual being free to form their own feelings about present day Detroit. It is not believed that this project will save Detroit, but it will help better the now.
