Design in Detroit: Creativity at the Core

Detroit’s Unmatched Creative Energy
For Allen Largin, Creative Director at ROCK, design in Detroit is more than a backdrop—it’s a driving force. Raised in the suburbs, Largin spent summers volunteering in Detroit’s neighborhoods and attending Red Wings games at Joe Louis Arena. These early experiences gave him a deep appreciation for the city’s distinct culture. “Every time I was in another city, I was always thinking like, this city’s great, but it doesn’t have what Detroit has. It’s home for me.”
 

 
A Global Influence with Local Roots
“Detroit’s history within design, architecture and the arts is second to none,” Largin explains. The city’s contributions to the modern design movement and architectural innovation resonate worldwide, and today it continues to cultivate new talent. “Every corner you look, there’s either an artist, someone filming or someone designing,” he shares.
 
Merging Art, Sport, and Opportunity
Largin’s own journey reflects Detroit’s spirit of opportunity and innovation. At 15, he entered a Nike Future Soul design competition on a whim, blending his love of sport and art. That experience connected him with Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, whose mentorship profoundly shaped his approach to creativity and community. “D’Wayne has created a network that impacts not just his students, but their families and communities, creating ripple effects far beyond design,” Largin says.

Detroit’s creativity isn’t just growing locally—it’s attracting global talent like Dr. Edwards. “Not only are we cultivating the best talent in Detroit, but we’re bringing people like Dr. Edwards here because they see Detroit as the place to take their creative expression to the next level,” Largin says.
 

 
A Platform for Big Bets
Detroit’s growth is fueled by bold ideas and transformative partnerships. Largin recalls a pivotal conversation with Dan Gilbert that led to the revival of Detroit’s only HBCU. “Working for the Gilberts and seeing one of my favorite organizations make history is something I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to top in my career,” he reflects.

Building a Future Through Creativity
Art and design in Detroit isn’t just celebrated—it’s a way of life. Whether it’s nurturing local talent, welcoming global innovators or merging art with opportunity, the city offers unparalleled chances for those ready to think big. “There’s something intangible about Detroit that other cities just don’t have,” Largin says.

Detroit is full of innovation and invites dreamers to be part of its story.