Detroit Institute of Music Education

The DIME music school is in the historic Bamlet Building in Capital Park, Detroit. It is an example of taking a historic building, and making it “cool” for higher education.

The Detroit Institute of Music Education (DIME), was seeking a building to begin their operations in Detroit.  DIME selected the former Bamlet/Capitol Square building at 1265 Griswold for its new location.  Built in 1897, the building had several occupants and most recently sat vacant for many years, falling into disrepair.

All six floors had experienced decay and no longer met city building codes.  Special attention was needed to preserve the original architectural character of the building, including its arched corridors, memorable curved brick, and stone façade.  Because of the DIME’s special entertainment and acoustic needs, the building required a modern stage to host live performances and accommodation for a sophisticated sound system. Previous offices were transformed into classrooms and music practice studios.  Sound deadening materials were used extensively throughout the space, and rooms were designed with special considerations to acoustics.  A 300-capacity live music venue called “Underground@DIME” was created for students and visitors to attend concerts weekly.