Location: Belle Isle Casino - Detroit, MI

Client: Department of Technology, Management and Budget - State of Michigan

Size: 56,000 sq ft

Services Provided: 

Project Relevance: Historic Preservation; Fire Safety; Code Analysis.

Belle Isle Casino Sprinkler Replacement

The Belle Isle Casino opened in 1908 to replace the original wood casino building that was lost in a fire. In 2014 the state of Michigan leased Belle Isle from the city of Detroit and promised twenty million dollars in capital improvements within three years.  The building name stems from the 19th-century term “casino” meaning a public gathering place for dancing, music, not related to gambling.  The State regularly rents the facility to the public for weddings, meetings, and other events.

The project was driven by the need to replace a failing fire suppression system in the building.  Inadequate maintenance and original installation errors had resulted in leaks and burst pipes.  The project included replacing all of the fire sprinkler pipes and heads on all floors, installing a new fire pump, compressor, and generator, and installing a new fire alarm system.  The new generator required the gas service to be upsized.  Insulation was added and lighting replaced in 5,000 SF of the Second-Floor ceiling to comply with code and avoid adding sprinklers above the ceiling.   In the main gathering areas where the original plaster ceilings remain, the design incorporated extended coverage sprinkler heads.  This allowed for a reduction in the amount of exposed pipe within these historically significant areas.  The pipe was arranged to maintain critical views within the space while providing code-compliant coverage.

Light Guard Armory Renovation

Washtenaw Armory Interior & Exterior Renovations

Cadillac Place Building Entrance Renovation

Lapeer Armory Building Addition and Renovation

Marquette Elevator Addition / USMS Renovation / USDC Renovation

Prospectus Modernization

Historic Chambers and Courtroom Renovation

New Dedicated Passenger Elevator

Historic Window Replacement

Belle Isle Conservatory Structural Improvements - Phase 1

Masonry Repairs and Roof Replacements

Cellblock / Offices / Control Center

U.S. Court of Appeals Chambers Renovation

Reserve Forces Service Center Building Renovations

VAMC Library, Medical Media & Clinic Renovation

Courtroom Ceiling & Lighting Improvements

Warehouse Building Addition

USDC Chambers and Courtroom

Glen Eden Mausoleum Crypt Infill