WM Studio is a renovation and design firm started by architect Marc Tirikian. Though its focus is mainly residential projects, such as kitchen remodeling, the firm was recently hired to help redesign the 30,000-square-foot Pioneer Building on East Grand Boulevard, so that the former-industrial-building-turned-artist-studios will meet city occupancy standards.
WM Studio was launched in 2002 and operated for 3 years before Tirikian accepted a job with the architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP, where he contributed to the design of Burj Dubai and the new NATO Headquarters. He returned to Detroit in 2008 and, once here, saw an opportunity to re-open WM Studio. "I truly believe, truly hope that Detroit will make it's turnaround. And we want to be a part of that when it happens," says Tirikian.
The firm's size, coupled with its experience, make it attractive option for clients, like the Pioneer Building, trying to couple design desires with cash realities. "Because we're a small firm, our overhead expenses aren't that great," says Tirkian. "So our fees are not as exuberant as large firms."
Away from WM Studio, Tirikian serves on the design committee for CEM Business Association, which initiates programs for the beautification of the East Warren commercial corridor. He's currently working on a project to streetscape the district.
WM Studio is located at 4192 Bishop. Call 313-885-7521.
Source: Marc Tirkian, WM Studio
Writer: Ryan Kelly
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.