Building a More Sustainable Future in Detroit

The University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit (UMCI) is designed to be more than a place for students, researchers, entrepreneurs and community partners to connect. It is also a model for how thoughtful building design can support a more sustainable future.

As part of Michigan Climate Week, UMCI will highlight the sustainability features being built into the new Detroit facility – from all-electric, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems to bird-friendly windows, native landscaping and sustainable building materials.

The building’s approach considers sustainability from multiple perspectives:

• Reducing energy use and embodied carbon
• Conserving water
• Supporting local ecosystems
• Creating healthier spaces for the people who use them

From native plants that support pollinators and help manage stormwater to design choices that improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort, each element contributes to a larger vision for a more sustainable building.

“The UMCI building is more than a new facility, it’s an example of what’s possible when innovation, sustainability and community come together," said UMCI Director of Strategic Partnerships and Industry Relations Lisa Katz. "We’re proud to be creating a space in Detroit that reflects our commitment to a healthier, more resilient future.”

These choices also reflect a broader commitment to Detroit. By bringing together sustainable design, innovation, and community partnership, UMCI aims to show how buildings can help create a healthier, more resilient city.

Explore the sustainability features shaping UMCI’s new home and see how the building is designed with Detroit’s future in mind.

Take a look at how UMCI Is building a more sustainable future in Detroit!