Story

City Mission is a faith-based non-profit organization started for the purpose of meeting the educational, physical, and spiritual needs of the children in NW Detroit's Brightmoor neighborhood. Enough property has been purchased to begin Phase 1, which consists of a 17,000 square foot Ministry Center housing a gymnasium, classrooms, and administrative offices. The use of bold colors on the 2-story gymnasium and vertical circulation block will be a focal point in a neighborhood filled with run-down, burned-out structures. In comparison to other buildings in the area, the Ministry Center will be a dominant element. To reduce the unsightly "big box" mass, the building envelope has been articulated to reduce its scale and provide a pleasing image in the neighborhood. The placement of windows was carefully considered due the need for security in the community. To supplement the windows, a large skylight was placed above the classroom area. It will allow daylight to stream into the common area outside the classrooms. The administrative offices located on the second level are open to the first floor lobby through a sizable atrium. The building also features an outdoor play area screened and protected by a partial height wall and trellis.