elevating + embracing + enhancing

EXPERIENCES

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ICSC

a legacy built on your experience

Neumann/Smith Architecture provides architecture, interior design, and planning services for a range of project types and markets. Since 1968, our firm has specialized in mixed-use, retail redevelopment, adaptive reuse, hospitality, and entertainment venues across the United States. We leverage our diverse experience to design one-of-a-kind projects that elevate and enhance the asset and your customer’s experience.

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desert modern aesthetic

The expansion at the Shops at Mission Viejo blends classic Mission Style elements with minimalist clean lines reflecting a Desert Modern aesthetic. The new retail buildings and promenade embrace the beauty of desert landscapes, incorporating natural materials such as weathered woods, warm tones, and dark metals. The earthy color palette on the retail buildings and shade structure is accentuated with pops of turquoise, terracotta, and sage green within the promenade amenity zone seating, planters, lighting and plant selections.

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reimagining anchors as community lifestyle hubs

A nod to new urbanism, the redevelopment of traditional suburban malls is shifting toward densification by integrating residences, offices, and hotels. As a response to the nation’s housing shortage, residential developments at these regional centers create vibrant, walkable communities where key retail, restaurants, and public amenities are just steps away. This “urban-lite” model appeals to a diverse range of demographics—from Gen Z to empty nesters—who seek the convenience and connectivity of modern living.

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mixed-use destinations

At Neumann/Smith, we understand the value of experiential retail and community placemaking. Our experienced team brings extensive knowledge in multi-family residential and hospitality, helping developers unlock the full potential of their retail properties. By creating spaces that balance convenience, connectivity, and quality of life, we reimagine these developments into thriving, mixed-use destinations that serve both residents and the broader community

residential / hospitality / restaurant

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creating community takes more than great design.

It also takes a in-depth understanding of the user.

People naturally gravitate toward environments that are relevant to them. This philosophy drives our placemaking efforts – we design spaces that groups want to spend time in not just because they’re beautiful – but because it makes sense for them.

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To understand what’s relevant, we put ourselves in the shoes of the user from the start. We leverage previous experience and ask questions to understand their point of view. What design decisions would enhance their daily life? This practice ensures our projects delight the user without compromising function, resulting in relevant spaces.

  • Aerial Image of the 22-acre Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park
  • William Davidson Sport House at Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park
  • Aerial photo of Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park
  • Aerial image of the Delta Dental Play Garden at Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park. Play zones are highlighted with blue and green material on the ground and surrounded by green grass.
  • William Davidson Sport House at Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park
  • Huron-Clinton Metroparks Water Garden at Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park
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mixed-use + multi-family

As a complex project type requiring an in-depth understanding of trends, codes, and construction methods, we provide valuable expertise throughout the design process. This ensures beautiful spaces, and high-quality amenities that meet budget and timeline requirements.

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we see negative space as an
opportunity

No matter what type of project our team takes on, we take every opportunity to maximize the space between. We glorify spaces that are often overlooked by others. Environments like alleys, hallways, and green spaces are seen as placemaking opportunities. This can be seen in our transformation of the Z Deck and The Belt as well as the pocket park between the JW Marriott Detroit and the Residences at Water Square.

former joe louis arena site now home to the residences water square and the jw marriott detroit

making an impact through the built environment

Our recent high-rise work is reshaping Detroit’s skyline and strengthening the city’s core. From Huntington Tower (2022), the city’s first new high-rise in years, to Residences Water Square (2024), Detroit’s first all-glass residential tower, and the upcoming JW Marriott Detroit Water Square (2027), a 600-room hotel connected to Huntington Place—these mixed-use destinations reflect our commitment to elevating urban living, hospitality, and community experience. Explore each project below.

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  • an aerial view of the residences water square along the riverfront with the GM Rennaissance Center visible in the background
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ICSC Global Award Winners

retail team

nsa headshot mike west

MIKE WEST, AIA, LEED AP

vice president
mwest@neumannsmith.com
248.497.4129

nsa headshot chris lentine

CHRIS LENTINE, RA, LEED AP

associate + senior project manager
clentine@neumannsmith.com
248.756.6040

nsa headshot charlott glaab

CHARLOTT GLAAB, RA, NCIDQ

associate + senior designer
cglaab@neumannsmith.com
248.494.0657

team headshot john galwaa

JOHN GALWAA, RA, NCARB

senior designer
jgalwaa@neumannsmith.com
248.200.6794

let’s connect

When you see our projects, you may notice they’re all unique and authentic. One thing they share is their positive impact – on the user, the client, and the community. Let’s discuss how we can elevate the experience of your next project!