The Veterans Memorial Park Building is a two-story structure currently occupied by the Michigan-based non-profit organization [HAS HEART], whose mission is “to utilize the mediums of art, design, and fashion to benefit, uplift, and inspire US Veterans.” Their vision was to transform the building into a small café, where civilians and veterans could come together to share their stories over coffee.
To create a bridge between veterans and civilians, our team performed a feasibility study and developed conceptual plans to support the community goal of a more walkable downtown area with greater activity in and around Veterans Memorial Park.
The building’s upper level houses the café and retail space, while the lower level includes office and storage space. Aesthetic, accessibility, and utility improvements allow the building to open regularly to the public, while expanding its connection with Downtown Grand Rapids.
Now complete, the HAS HEART Coffee Shop builds a sense of community between veterans and the public.
