Elevator Building rises as E. Riverfront small business incubator

The Elevator Building on Franklin St. is almost ready for tenants -- and a handful have already signed on, including a 3D modeling studio, a couple of fashion designers, an engineering firm and a photographer. The draw? Open commercial space, river views and reasonable rent -- developer Randy Lewarchik is asking for $0.70/square foot per month. There are 23 units, ranging from about 700 square feet to just over 1,000.

Architect Archive DS retained the "rustic look" of the building, says Lewarchik, with 42-inch door openings, timber beams, brick walls and wood ceilings that were painstakingly powerwashed. Tenants have keyed access to a common kitchen area, showering facilities and an upper balcony, perfect for "people that bike to work, outdoor enthusiasts and artists," he says, drawing on the building's proximity to the Dequindre Cut, Milliken State Park and the RiverWalk

Lewarchik is reserving the ground floor of the northwest corner of the building for a bar or restaurant that he hopes will utilize the roof as a patio. In July, a mason will build brick piers for a wrought iron fence around the parking lot.

The lease rate includes basic utilities and wi-fi. For a tour or more information, contact Lewarchik at 810-599-6214.

Source: Randy Lewarchik, The Elevator Building
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh