Louis Buhl & Co.

Maintaining a multidisciplinary focus on scale and medium, Louis Buhl & Co. balances its exhibition programming with the production of print editions and unique series, ultimately serving as an incubator for individuality, problem solving and artistic exploration. In addition to accommodating a new gallery space uniquely tailored towards the business’s multifaceted programming, the development will welcome Louis Buhl & Co.’s first in-house print shop. The site at 1317 McClellan Avenue is home to a former convent that was historically associated with the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, now a cultural arts center called the Shepherd. The design of the complex consists of a main structure which includes the reception area and retail space, the production studio, and the new gallery/exhibition space. Existing, freestanding historic elements will be incorporated into the overall design of the main building with the addition of an outdoor courtyard, providing productive space for artists and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The gallery space will be enclosed with translucent polycarbonate panels, and will combine lightness and durability, a compliment to the weathered brick of the existing façade. Its translucence will create an atmospheric beacon at night, creating a distinct identity and offering a unique canvas for artists. The lighting design will be developed as a dynamic installation with the potential to transform over time.

“We’re thrilled to announce this latest addition to the cultural district in the East Village: a new home for our expanding gallery Louis Buhl & Co and another outlet in the community for supporting artists. Lorcan O’Herlihy and his team’s enthusiasm for what’s happening in the neighborhood was evident from the start, and we have the utmost confidence in their vision for this next chapter of the gallery,” says Anthony and JJ Curis.

Excited by the ambitious community arts project at large and the budding energy of the neighborhood, LOHA has bought a building down the street from the development with plans to activate a new office in Detroit. “The opportunity to team up with Anthony Curis, Library Street Collective & Louis Buhl and Co. to contribute to this extraordinary multi-disciplinary arts and culture campus is immensely exciting. The varied programming, as well as Louis Buhl & Co.’s first in-house production studio will provide a wonderful gathering space for the East Village,” said Lorcan O’Herlihy, founding principal of Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects (LOHA).