Travel Diary: Detroit

6.14.2012

Detroit has always been a mystery to me. Watch the news, and you hear the one-time marvel is now crumbling. The word on the street is it’s about to make a comeback. When asked to visit, I jumped at the chance.

I’m spoiled living in the Big Apple. You can’t walk two blocks without bumping into creative inspiration, and the energy is infectious. So I came at Detroit judging it on that basis. For any city, creative inspiration is the driving force of a renewal. Ask any city planner, and they will tell you that if the artists come, the industry will follow. I looked past any crumbling buildings, and kept an eye open for its true energy.

I got off the plane, and began exploring. Fashion girl takes Detroit.

After checking into the fanciful Westin Book Cadillac, I started my adventure in Downtown Detroit.  Beholding the most striking collections of Art Deco architecture, I was especially drawn to The Guardian Building which is now utilized as a retail center with a Bank of America and retail shops. In the center of this feast for the eyes, is Rowland Café. I could easily see myself coming here for business meetings, afternoon work on my blog, or a quick cappuccino before a movie date. Or, even better, late night cocktail parties. I would host one here for sure. Roaring 20s energy meets Brooklyn party girl? Yes please. If any Guardian building event organizers are reading…just saying.

After seeing a twist of the old and the new, it was time for shopping, of course.  I do know a good designer or two when I see one. City Bird was a match for almost any boutique in New York with its handcrafted gems.  They were loaded with lots of fun Detroit and Michigan items, including Michigan-shaped wooden earrings–not your regular tourist gifts. The owners are a brother-and-sister duo, and Detroit natives, Andy and Emily Lynn. Right next door, they recently opened a home goods store calledThe Nest. And it’s just as darling as it’s sister store!

On my way to the DIA, I stopped by the recently opened The Peacock Room. Located in a historic venue, owner Rachel Lutz has put together a musing of old and new accessories and clothing, all with a vintage vibe. She definitely has an eye for classic pieces, and I am regretting not picking up this vintage sequin jacket for only $40.

After arriving at The Detroit Institute of Arts, I realized I could have easily spent a full day there. Typically I breeze through museums, but the DIA has a little of something for everyone, including an extensive collection of African, European, and American art.  I was most captivated by the Contemporary section of the DIA.  My other art related highlight was meeting Michelle Tanguay, one of two founders of Pop Up Detroit.  Along with Nina Marcus-Kurlonko, the duo began Pop Up Detroit to showcase their own work more. As well as promote other local artists and repurposing vacant buildings in the city. Even one location was an abandoned Cadillac dealership, which sounds incredible. They have also recently brought on designers, having had their first Fashion Show back in August. I’m curious to where they will be popping up next!

Between the new to the old in Detroit, I took a step back into time at the glamorous home of Edsel Ford (only child of Henry) with his wife Eleanor located in Indian Village of Detroit. Built in 1926 during a time when Detroit was on the rise, it was full of pre-Depression decadence. Eleanor had added a few installations to the house during the 50’s but did so in a way that preserved its original grace. I can just imagine all of the glamorous parties that were once held there! Oh, how a girl can dream.

My Saturday treat was the Eastern Market. If I lived here, I would be stocking up on fresh veggies and local meats for my dinner party that night, peonies for the table center, and boxes of flowers to plant the next day. This would definitely be a weekly stop for me with its amazing artisans and farmers. The little home betty that I am, I love to surround myself with local fare, and this place rivaled Brooklyn Flea. It had everything from pickled goods to caramelized popcorn. And it supports local artists. That’s a huge plus.

After making my rounds through the city and hopping a flight back to New York, I can say that Detroit is a mix of old luxury with new creative energy. It is in perfect poise for a comeback, It knows where it’s been, and surprisingly, seems like it knows where it wants to go.

Detroit River Cruise with Infinity and Ovation 

Rowland Cafe

The Nest/Peacock Room