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. (more…)

The online publication, Places, is currently featuring several articles that highlight Detroit’s Urban Landscape. Dan Pitera, Director of the Detroit Collaborative Design Center at the University of Detroit Mercy, comments on several local renegade projects that have been inserted into various urban backdrops around the city.  While Jerry Herron, Professor of English and American Studies at Wayne State University, develops a three part running dialogue focusing on “Borderland/Borderama/Detroit.”