FireBreak: Architecture and Community Agitation-GSD exhibit '05

Video Work By: Allegra Pitera—TimeBase
Reclaiming vacant and abandoned land is integral to the success of any community development initiative in Detroit. Vacant and abandoned property could be the city's biggest asset, if it is reclaimed, redeveloped, and returned to productive use. FireBreak is a unique example of community organizing through architecture and design addressing this issue. Presently, there are 8,000 burned houses in Detroit. The Design Center, alongside community artists and residents, have transformed this urban blight into a public asset. FireBreak is centered on the position that everyone -- the next-door neighbor or the person down the street -- can shape her or his world.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• FireBreak
• Activism
• Community Participation
• Vacant Land
• Abandoned Land
• Shrinking Cities
• University of Detroit Mercy