Trying Out For Varsity

Architect Robert Keane of WDG Architecture based in Washington, D.C., shows a drawing of a proposed 13-story apartment building called The Varsity, shown in yellow, that would stand next to 411 Lofts on Washington Street in downtown Ann Arbor. The Varsity officially became the first downtown development to face the scrutiny of Ann Arbor's new design review process when it went before the newly formed Design Review Board on Wednesday. Read the story and check out the plans.

By Design

Ann Arbor City Council Member Carsten Hohnke, D-5th Ward, said during a special work session Monday night he hopes the city's new downtown design guidelines are reviewed over time. The city has rolled out guidelines that spell out a broad vision for future development in downtown Ann Arbor and offer details about various "character districts," including South University, State Street, Liberty/Division, East Huron, Midtown, Main Street, Kerrytown and First Street. Read the story here.