East Hills Center of the Universe Urban Infill

The East Hills Center of the Universe is a 7,200-square-foot mixed-use development located in Grand Rapids’ East Hills neighborhood. Built on the site of a former contaminated gas station, the project transformed a brownfield property into a vibrant urban infill development featuring restaurant, retail, and office space.

Designed with sustainability at its core, the building incorporates numerous environmentally responsible features, including insulated concrete form construction, passive solar design, a vegetative roof garden, and a rain garden. The project was also the first zero–stormwater discharge site in the City of Grand Rapids.

In addition to its commercial uses, the building serves as an environmental and energy demonstration center, showcasing innovative approaches to sustainable design and urban redevelopment. The project received a Michigan Cool Cities Grant, achieved LEED-CS Gold Certification, and was recognized as a finalist for Environmental Design and Construction Magazine’s Excellence in Design award.