Warren Loranger Architecture Building
Spaces that encourage community.
Beloved and regarded as home by its current students and alumni, the School of Architecture & Community Development is located in the Warren Loranger Architecture Building. SACD's roots trace back to the 1920s, with an Architecture program that was originally housed in the College of Engineering.
Located physically in the center of the building, our Exhibition Space is where SACD comes together. In Dean Dan Pitera’s words, it is the “heart of the school” and is where all-school meetings, final thesis presentations, first-year orientation, graduation dinners and alumni gatherings are held.
Between the Exhibition Space and the main corridor is a sunken space known simply as The Pit. Regarded as the “soul of the School,” this common space surges energy throughout the entire building. It is a space of production, collaboration and socialization. These two spaces speak to the community, creativity and inclusivity that we hold dear in SACD.
More Than a School
In the words of Molly Redigan '16:
"Think of a place. A place where you were encouraged to be exactly who you are and inspired to grow into the best version of yourself. This place could be your home or a neighborhood rec center. Maybe it’s just a particular booth at your favorite restaurant. As time passes you may forget the particulars of this place; the color of the walls fade into a foggy gray, and the specific smells blend into the hazy perfume of nostalgia. What you will not forget, not ever, is that this place made you feel that you matter and you belong.
"The School of Architecture & Community Development at University of Detroit Mercy is one of those unforgettable places. Long after its alumni have unpinned their final design presentations and wrapped up their last capstone meetings, they remember the sense of community and camaraderie that SACD has fostered since its founding in 1964. It is an educational experience that supports who you are and helps shape who you will become."
Warren L. Loranger
Loranger was a talented artist, generous philanthropist and humble, quiet giver to those in need. Known to have a warm personality, his personal philosophy was “to give back, to help people achieve whatever they are capable of doing.”
Through his quiet philanthropic efforts, he helped people in large and small ways, such as making a college education possible for students who couldn’t otherwise afford it, or creating opportunities and spaces for groups to undertake their activities.
“The students at SACD have a collective spirit, energy and curiosity that helps them achieve excellence in their work. I am so grateful to be a part of it.”