In 1928, publicists marketed Detroit as the “Paris of the Midwest.”  Almost a century later, the corner of Grand River and Centre St in Harmonie Park was transformed to mimic this analogy.  The Parisian streetscape was constructed for the upcoming film, “The Double”, set in the streets of 1988 Paris.  Existing building storefronts were slathered with Parisian “make-up” in order to resemble the most stereo-typical Parisian cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and a Hotel.  Baguettes, awnings, street plantings, beaux art lighting, and quaint European bicycles were strategically placed throughout the area.  For two full days, these props, actors, and filmmakers energized the streets.  For two full days, the employees working in Harmonie Park realized the full urban potential of the area.

Afterwards, as the streetscape was slowly dismantled, many discussed the potential policy requirements that would force each filmmaker to leave behind pre-determined “props” at the scene.   Detroit could slowly be layered with streetscape improvements, from the Parisian landscape plantings along Grand River to the New York café tables near the Detroit Opera House to the strikingly red Chinese banners that once decorated the parking garage on Michigan Avenue.  Detroit could become a collaged streetscape…a Paris, New York, and Los Angeles of the Midwest.