Detroit marks a milestone in tackling housing challenges with its first-ever 3D-printed home, unveiling new possibilities for affordable living.

This groundbreaking 988-square-foot, two-bedroom residence was crafted by Citizen Robotics  using a robotic arm initially designed for the automotive industry.

The home’s sturdy, printed walls were assembled on-site and finished with classic features like a pitched roof and stucco siding, ensuring it fits seamlessly into the neighborhood.

Co-founder Tom Woodman emphasizes that the project’s goal is to cut costs and construction time while maintaining top standards, making homeownership more accessible  for Detroiters.

Local retailer Gardner White furnished the home, highlighting its modern, functional design and reinforcing community support.

Citizen Robotics is also training Detroit’s workforce in digital fabrication, equipping residents for the future of homebuilding innovation.

As Detroit faces ongoing housing shortages, this project offers hope and a blueprint for inclusive, tech-driven solutions.

Jazz from Detroit captures the city’s pivotal role in shaping America’s jazz legacy, tracing its roots back to the Great Migration and Detroit’s thriving Black community.

This vibrant documentary spotlights both legendary icons like Elvin Jones and Ron Carter and modern stars such as Regina Carter and Kenny Garrett, emphasizing Detroit’s deep tradition of mentorship.

Directed by Daniel Loewenthal and co-produced by Mark Stryker, the film draws inspiration from Stryker’s acclaimed book and brings the city’s jazz evolution to life.

After its premiere at the 2024 Freep Film Festival, the documentary is now streaming on Prime Video.

Local screenings, including at Traverse City’s Alluvion, feature insightful panel discussions, inviting viewers to connect firsthand with Detroit’s vibrant jazz heritage.

Looking for a sweet treat with a crunch? Big Lake Candy Company LLC puts a bold twist on classic candy with their locally made freeze-dried favorites.

The freeze-drying process transforms familiar sweets into light, airy, flavor-packed bites that are fun to share (or keep to yourself). It’s a unique candy experience that’s quickly become a hit at local events, fairs, and festivals across Metro Detroit.

Proudly locally owned and operated, Big Lake Candy Company is all about fun flavors, quality treats, and supporting the local community.

Detroit’s students have long faced the weight of an underfunded and unequal education system, with the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) struggling against aging buildings and scarce resources.

A state-backed $760 million bailout in 2016 offered relief, but inequities endured, even as DPSCD’s per-pupil funding outpaced state averages in 2023-24.

Officials argue that these dollars still fall short, given the district’s deeper needs and stretched revenues.

Fresh hope arrived in August 2024, as Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s landmark $23 billion education budget delivered record K-12 investment — with new funding for mental health, student meals, and universal pre-K.

DPSCD will also benefit from nearly $20.5 million in grants for safer, more supportive schools.

Yet, as the district’s own $1 billion budget for 2025 launches new programs, uncertainty lingers over future state and federal support.

Whether these bold investments can finally close the opportunity gap for Detroit’s children remains to be seen.

Coup D’état, a Detroit-based boutique, has been recognized as one of America’s 50 Best Clothing Stores, highlighting its remarkable impact on the city’s fashion scene.

Located on the east side, Coup D’état is celebrated for its modern, curated collections and its strong community presence.

Founded by Angela Wisniewski-Cobbina in 2019, the boutique offers handpicked apparel and lifestyle pieces from both local and international designers.

In 2024, the shop moved to the vibrant Lantern Building in Little Village, an arts district recently named one of TIME Magazine’s 2025 World’s Greatest Places.

Beyond fashion, the store fosters community spirit, notably hosting a retrospective for legendary Detroit photographer Bill Rauhauser in March 2025.

Wisniewski-Cobbina is committed to inclusivity, positioning Coup D’état as a welcoming destination where all Detroiters can find their style.

Oakland Mall in Troy, Michigan is reinventing itself as a vibrant community destination amid shifting retail trends.

After several major stores closed — including Macy’s slated for early 2025 — the mall now fills empty spaces with events and creative activities that draw residents together.

The upcoming "Cakes & Mixology: The Giveback" on December 20, 2025, invites both kids and adults to decorate cakes, create holiday mocktails, and enjoy games, with proceeds benefiting local charities and families.

Also featured is the dazzling "Winter Wonderland Extravaganza," surrounding visitors with holiday magic, twinkling lights, and Santa photo ops — forging new family traditions.

Owner Mario Kiezi, who took over in 2022, is leading the mall’s transformation with fresh events, a welcoming atmosphere, and tenant diversity, making Oakland Mall a centerpiece for Troy’s community spirit.