Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids Research Center

The building site was well under construction when the City of Grand Rapids decided to add an engaging public space at this corner. The challenge was to design a public gateway to the Monroe North district of downtown Grand Rapids, within a narrow window of time in order to make modifications to designed building and site components prior to their imminent construction. The final design suggests a boardwalk, using plank pavers through a riparian area which includes rain gardens and infiltration basins. The intent was to evoke movement through the space, while embracing the relationship to the Grand River which is only a block away, and providing areas of respite for downtown visitors and employees. To achieve the desired paving pattern, three colors of 6” x 24” Promenade Plank Paver were used: Winter Marvel, French Grey and Midnight Sky in the Umbriano® finish. The finish resembles natural granite with the proprietary ColorFusion™ technology and the built-in EasyClean™ helps to ensure the plaza is easier to maintain.