Lafayette Park townhouses
Lafayette Park, located in Detroit, Michigan, represents a significant example of mid-20th-century urban planning and architectural design, particularly through the work of German-born architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Constructed primarily between 1956 and 1969, the area showcases a blend of low- and high-density housing, aiming to revitalize a blighted section of the city. The development stands as the largest collection of buildings designed by Mies van der Rohe globally and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places[1].
History
The origins of Lafayette Park trace back to post-World War II urban renewal efforts, influenced by the principles of the Federal Housing Administration. The initial phase, known as the Gratiot Redevelopment, sought to address deteriorated conditions in the area bounded by Hastings Street, Gratiot Avenue, Orleans Street, and Lafayette Street[2]. This section would eventually be impacted by the construction of the Chrysler Freeway and I-375. The project aimed to create a modern urban environment, moving away from the dense, overcrowded conditions prevalent in many older city neighborhoods.
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe was commissioned to design a significant portion of the development, beginning with The Pavilion in 1956[3]. He collaborated with Ludwig Hilberseimer and Alfred Caldwell on the overall plan, resulting in a unique integration of architectural styles and urban design principles. The initial construction between 1956 and 1959 established Lafayette Park as a landmark of modern architecture. A second phase, the Lafayette Extension, expanded the development southward, bounded by I-375, Lafayette, Orleans Street, and Jefferson Avenue. In 1963, various overlapping development names were consolidated under the banner of “Lafayette Park” by the Lafayette Park Development Association[4].
Geography
Lafayette Park is composed of two primary superblocks, a design choice reflecting the urban planning trends favored after World War II[5]. These superblocks integrate both low- and high-density housing options, creating a diverse residential environment. The area is situated west of the Chrysler Freeway and near the Dequindre Cut Greenway, providing access to various parts of the city. The original site covered eighteen acres[6].
A notable geographical feature is the greenway that runs through the center of the entire development. This greenway is divided into three sections: Lafayette Plaisance (between Gratiot and Lafayette), Lafayette Central Park (between Lafayette and Larned), and Lafayette Entry Park (between Larned and Jefferson)[7]. This continuous green space provides a pedestrian-friendly environment and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the neighborhood. The location also provides proximity to other Detroit landmarks and cultural institutions.
Architecture
The architectural style of Lafayette Park is predominantly International Style, characterized by simplicity, functionality, and the use of modern materials like steel and glass. Mies van der Rohe’s designs, including The Pavilion, the Townhouses, and Lafayette Towers, exemplify these principles[8]. The Pavilion, a 22-story high-rise, offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom rental units. The Townhouses, built in 1959-60, represent a different approach to residential design, offering a more intimate and community-oriented living experience.
Beyond Mies van der Rohe’s contributions, other architects also left their mark on Lafayette Park. Gunnar Birkerts designed 1300 Lafayette East, while Giffels and Rossetti created Central Park Plaza Apartments. The neighborhood also includes buildings designed by Joseph Savin, John Hans Graham, and Hausner and Macsai, demonstrating a diverse range of modern architectural approaches. The district is recognized as the Mies van der Rohe Historic District, highlighting the concentration and significance of his work[9].
Neighborhoods
Within Lafayette Park, distinct residential areas have emerged over time. The original Gratiot Redevelopment phase included developments like Cherboneau Place North and South, Chateaufort Cooperative, and Regency Square Apartments (now Parc Lafayette)[10]. These areas offered a variety of housing options, catering to different lifestyles and income levels. The Lafayette Extension added further diversity with developments like Rochdale Court Apartments (later demolished) and Navarre Place Townhouses.
The character of each neighborhood within Lafayette Park varies, reflecting the different architectural styles and design philosophies employed. The townhouse complexes offer a more communal living experience, while the high-rise apartments provide panoramic views and convenient access to amenities. The presence of Walter Chrysler Elementary School and the Towers Shopping Center further contribute to the neighborhood’s self-sufficiency and sense of community. The consolidation of the Gratiot-Orleans Development Area, Lafayette Plaisance, and Lafayette Park-University City into “Lafayette Park” in 1963 helped to solidify the identity of the overall neighborhood[11].