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Neumann/Smith Architecture Latest Creative Firm To Open Up In Downtown Detroit

DETROIT -- Neumann/Smith Architecture, a design firm specializing in architecture and interior design for corporate, commercial, academic, and recreational facilities, today announced it will open a design studio in downtown Detroit's Wright Kay Building, located at 1500 Woodward Ave., between Clifford and Farmer.

Neumann/Smith has been front and center in downtown Detroit's recent revitalization, including being involved in transforming the M@dison Building at Grand Circus Park into a hub for high-tech entrepreneurial activity and designing renovations to the Chrysler House, One Woodward Avenue Office Tower and the First National Building, located in the city's growing tech hub.

Most recently, it was announced that the firm is designing Campbell Ewald's new headquarters in the former J.L. Hudson Co. warehouse attached to Ford Field.

"We are excited about opening up a studio space downtown where we can be closer to our clients and the incredible revitalization taking place," said Joel Smith, AIA, Neumann/Smith partner. "The new Detroit office will provide an opportunity for more face-to-face meetings, foster a closer client experience, and increase our involvement in the community."

Headquartered in Southfield, the firm plans to move employees into the new design studio by June of this year, encompassing the entire third floor of the Wright Kay Building, which was purchased by Rock Ventures in December of 2011.

"As a creative company, nothing is more inspiring than to work in a city like Detroit, with its rich history of architectural design," said Firm Principal and Historic Preservation Design Leader, J. Michael Kirk, AIA. "Our employees are looking forward to the opportunity to work in a downtown urban core."

Bedrock Real Estate Services, Rock Ventures' full service real estate firm, brokered the lease.

"Neumann/Smith is joining the fast growing list of companies who have a presence in downtown Detroit to leverage the dynamic creative tech hub that is quickly forming, " said Jim Ketai, managing partner, Bedrock Real Estate Services.

Neumann/Smith hopes to expand its presence in Detroit and expects to hire more employees for its Detroit studio. For more information, visit www.neumannsmith.com.

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