Detroit’s Transformed Repository: A New Chapter for Old Factories

Historic warehouse becomes vibrant library and café through adaptive reuse

Detroit’s landscape is dotted with relics of its industrial heyday, many of which stand abandoned and silent. The Transformed Repository, designed by Zhaoxiong Han and Yinzhu Yao, breathes new life into one such historic warehouse, offering a compelling vision for the future of urban spaces. This project not only preserves the architectural legacy of Detroit’s automotive era but also introduces a sustainable model for revitalizing forgotten structures into vibrant community assets.

Central to the project’s uniqueness is its thoughtful blend of history and innovation. The design transforms the former factory into a library and coffee shop, creating layered spaces that invite exploration and interaction. A newly introduced drywall volume, embedded within the original structure, adds depth and openness, while reading steps and cozy nooks encourage social engagement and quiet reflection. The result is a space that feels both rooted in the past and responsive to contemporary needs.

Adaptive reuse principles guided the realization of The Transformed Repository. Parametric design tools were employed to optimize the placement of skylights and clerestory windows, ensuring ample natural light and enhancing the building’s spatial quality. Sustainable, locally-sourced materials such as reclaimed wood and steel maintain the industrial aesthetic while modernizing the interior. Structural reinforcements, including robust steel beams, provide stability and support the new design elements, seamlessly blending old and new.

Spanning 18 meters in width, 35 meters in depth, and rising to a height of 7 meters, the building features mezzanine floors and a dynamic double-height space. Skylights and high windows not only illuminate the interior but also foster a sense of openness and warmth. The design’s interactive elements, from layered volumes to communal seating, encourage visitors to linger, read, and connect, making the library a true community hub.

Extensive research underpinned the project, with input from local residents, historians, and urban planners shaping the final design. Surveys and interviews revealed a strong desire for a multifunctional space that respects Detroit’s heritage while meeting present-day needs. The project overcame significant challenges, from balancing historical preservation with modern functionality to navigating zoning laws and integrating new technologies within a century-old structure.

The Transformed Repository stands as a model for sustainable urban revitalization, demonstrating how adaptive reuse can foster community pride and social engagement. Awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2025, the project exemplifies best practices in design, technology, and cultural stewardship, making a meaningful contribution to Detroit’s ongoing renaissance.

By blending historical preservation with contemporary design, The Transformed Repository offers a blueprint for cities worldwide seeking to transform their industrial legacies into spaces that inspire and connect communities.