The new co-owner of Ypsilanti’s former Pub 13 building hopes to bring new life into a "fabulous" building by transforming it into an open co-working space.
Wayne Millette, who bought the building earlier this month with two business partners, says the trio is working with an architectural firm to keep some of the details of the former business and its character, such as transforming the wooden bar into desk space. He'd like to keep the openness of both floors, while incorporating conference rooms and other quiet spaces.
"We don't want to lose the character of that building," he says. "We're really trying to create a space that is user friendly."
Located at 17 N. Washington St., the building first needs a new roof -- it currently "looks like an icicle," Millette says -- and windows need to replaced in accordance to the historic district in which it's located. Then interior renovations can get going in earnest, working toward an aggressive goal of opening in September.
He hopes the space brings more people into the downtown area and expects to hire staff to keep it running smoothly. Ideally, Millette would also like to see green technology incorporated into the building, and perhaps partner with a nearby business school. "We'll always have something going on in the building," he says.
Millette has lived in the area for some 20 years, having been involved in the New Beginnings Academy nearby as well as a few other business ventures. "This is our home -- we want to invest in it," he says. "Ypsi has a bright future, and we're just excited to be a part of it."
Source: Wayne Millette, co-owner
Writer: Kristin Lukowsk
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