The Kings Club Housing Redevelopment Project transforms the former Kings Club Casino for the Bay Mills Indian Community into a dynamic mixed-use building overlooking Lake Superior. After sitting vacant for several years, the Tribe engaged DSGW to reimagine the structure into a vital economic and community asset.
The redevelopment features 10 one and two-bedroom housing units situated above 6,000 square feet of retail space. The building’s unique, narrow footprint—only 30 feet wide—is leveraged to maximize its location; this affords every housing unit a stunning view of Lake Superior. The retail spaces on the lower level also benefit from large picture windows, ensuring excellent views and natural light.
The roof of the building is utilized as a shared amenity space, featuring a green roof deck with ample seating for residents. A standout architectural element on the exterior is the perforated metal panel, or image wall, which encases the front of the building. This feature serves a dual purpose: it acts as a safety feature in place of traditional railings while also providing a unique aesthetic feature that enhances the building’s facade.
The design successfully blends modern functionality with elements of warmth and historical reverence. Visitors entering the retail shops are welcomed by copper light fixtures and historical imagery. In the main lobby, a ceiling-suspended fireplace creates a cozy ambiance and adds a touch of sophistication, providing an inviting and classic entry point to the revitalized community hub.
