Project Description

The Ford Experience Center is the embodiment of Ford’s leadership role in the future of mobility and their data and human science-driven approach to workplace design: a place where visitors can experience the company’s future by seeing, feeling, and being. It feels as innovative and rich as the company story and energizes everyone present with the brand’s clear visual impact. Adaptive reuse of an underutilized conference center was at the core of the project where innovation is built upon a strong foundation. The design of the 90,000 square foot facility is centered around a hospitality experience that is interactive and engaging. The space is adaptable and production-ready to accommodate a wide variety of events such as vehicle reveals, press conferences and global meetings, and is equipped with all the latest connectivity technology to enable a blend of onsite and remote interaction. As employees began returning to in-office work, we saw the space rapidly utilized as not only a conference center but as an alternative workplace. To provide a branded environment where team members can share Ford’s story, feel a deep connection, and enjoy a collective sense of pride, attention to detail was of the utmost importance. With a goal to create an environment that felt open and transparent, the design team completely transformed the existing two-story building, keeping only its structure and oval shape. Concrete walls were removed and the façade was re-skinned with electrochromic glass that brings ample light to the interior but can also tint for shade. Featuring textile patterns and various shades of blue, the building uses design components that are emblematic of the Ford workplace experience. The interior of the facility was designed as a flexible canvas broken down into unique spaces all centered around a stunning gallery space, The Dream Arena. Each individual space is integrated into the whole through thoughtful detailing of scale, materials, furniture, lighting, wellness, branding, and artwork. The two-story showcase and gallery center features a café, full-service kitchen, lecture hall, product launch space, conference rooms, and a pilot program space. The sleek design combines aesthetics with leading lighting technology and acoustics and hosts a global art program that reflects contemporary artists both local to the Greater Detroit area and from around the world. As the gateway into the Ford brand, the Ford Experience Center’s reimagined facade leaves a compelling first impression. With an emphasis on human wellness, textured design elements found in nature are accompanied by ample greenery and collaborative outdoor seating areas -- allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the open space.