DDC
CONTRACT
About DDC
Our Story
DDC, short for Detroit Design Collective, was developed as a studio to offering professional contract architectural services to other architects by licensed architect Nathan Loree. The firm supports clients in the architecture and engineering sectors by delivering tailored design support across project phases—whether it’s design development, documentation, coordination, or architectural consultation. With a focus on adaptable contract solutions, DDC empowers firms to scale expertise and capacity on-demand while maintaining high standards of design quality and technical rigor.
Operating as a speciallized consultancy, DDC’s portfolio is only partially featured on its website to mainat our clients intelectual propoerty. Highlights educational, municipal, branding, and public design sectors. The collective’s approach emphasizes clarity, precision, and creative collaboration—allowing larger firms or smaller clients to benefit from architectural craftsmanship without committing to full-time in-house hires. In short....
Architects for architects.
What We Offer
Our Services
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Feasibility studies
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Zoning/code research
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Initial design concepts and sketches
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Spatial planning
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Client presentations and rendering
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Detailed architectural drawings (plans, sections, elevations, details)
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Accessibility consulting (ADA compliance)
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Specifications (materials, systems, workmanship)
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Coordination with other disciplines (structural, mechanical, electrical, etc.)
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Permitting documentation and assistance
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Site visits and progress reports
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Review of submittals and shop drawings
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Historic preservation and restoration
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Accessibility consulting (ADA compliance)
Brian Smilnak,
Principle Architect at Wakely Assoc.
"Nathan's efforts Efforts have been a great benefit to our company. He is a conscientious Architect with exceptional design and presentation skills. "
Adrienne Davies,
Principle at ENNECollaborative
"Nathan has an exceptional passion for architecture and technical knowledge of construction. I’ve had the pleasure of working with him and his company,... on multiple complex projects. "
Chris Klinert,
Designer at DLZ Michigan
"Working with Nate is very enjoyable experience. Nate communicates well and provides ideas that are practical yet elegant. Nate's work is thorough, detailed, and delivered on time."
Our Featured Projects
HIGH SCHOOL MAIN ENTRY
This project reimagines the main entrance of a high school, focusing on security this renovation also provided an opportunity to enhance the schools idenity.
EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
An innovative renovation of an existing school building to accommodate an early childcare use. emphasis was placed on biophilic and cognitive development elements.
SCHOOL BRANDING
This project focuses on expanding a cohesive visual identity for a school, through thoughtful branding. Environmental graphics, enhance school spirit, improve navigation, and strengthen community connection. The branding system is tailored to reflect the school’s character and inspire pride among students, staff, and visitors.
Beyond visual elements, the branding strategy also considers how design interacts with the built environment—creating a sense of place through color palettes, murals, and messaging that align with the school’s ethos. Whether through entrance design, hallway graphics, or classroom themes, the branding is seamlessly integrated into everyday spaces to create an engaging, student-centered atmosphere that encourages learning and belonging.
OFFICE RENOVATION
This project involved the transformation of an old school building into a modern, functional, and inspiring office space. The renovation focused on improving spatial efficiency, natural lighting, and user comfort while aligning with the district's evolving brand and workflow needs. Key upgrades included new reception area, flexible meeting areas, and improved acoustics to support collaboration and productivity.
Testimonials
Client Testimonials
Our clients speak of their experiences working with us.
״Nathan's efforts... Efforts have been a great benefit to our company. He is a conscientious Architect with exceptional design and presentation skills.״
Brian Smilnak, Principle Architect at Wakely Assoc.
״Nathan has an exceptional passion for architecture and technical knowledge of construction. I’ve had the pleasure of working with him and his company,... on multiple complex projects.״
Adrienne Davies, Principle at ENNECollaborative
״Working with Nate is very enjoyable experience. Nate communicates well and provides ideas that are practical yet elegant. Nate's work is thorough, detailed, and delivered on time.״
Chris Klinert, Designer at DLZ Michigan
Experience
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DDC has provided contract support on projects in the educational, municipal, federal, transportation, residential, and commercial sectors.
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DDC has provided support on projects at the Coleman Young Building (Detroit City Hall,) Detroit Metro Airport, Huntington Plane (formerly Cobo Hall,) Clawson School District, and Jason Hargrave Transit Center among others.
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DDC has experience providing support on duration of time , as needed, or projects contract as required to meet your needs.
Explore Our Work
Take a closer look at the spaces we’ve brought to life through thoughtful design.
