FoMoCo: For Detroit.

The Open House was a historic occasion for Ford to announce its renewed commitment to the city of Detroit with the purchase and future renovation of Michigan Central Station. The public was invited to celebrate, and tour the interior of this iconic piece of architecture. This event was the first time the building had been open to the public in over 30 years.

Civic commissioned Red Paper Heart to concept and design the interior experience, museum gallery and community area with Bluewater partnering for technology design and on-site creative. In researching the station, it became clear that Michigan Central Station has always been a barometer for how the city is doing. The optimism leading to the stations opening in 1914 has a surprisingly strong correlation with the current mood in Detroit.

The interior experience invited Detroiters to explore their history, culture and presence and an installation that mixes the dreams of the Detroit’s past residents, with a platform that lifts the hopes and goals of Detroit’s current residents for what their city’s future will be. Because ultimately this is a story best told by the people of Detroit.

At the event, you could peruse moments from history at digital stations flanking the main hall. As you read through history, and view images, words move off the screen onto the grand arches and ultimately culminating in a 65ft barrel vaulted ceiling. You also had the chance to write your ideas for the future of Detroit, what it looks like, and well-wishes for the community. All these ideas become collaged beautifully together on the ceiling. The final composition blends moments of history with the voice of the community.