Green Neighborhood Project

Since its incorporation in 1990, the Detroit Zen Center has been in a constant state of sustainably-driven improvement: of of its buildings, spaces, and monks/resident's lifestyle.  Partnering with the United Way in 2007, our "Green Neighborhood Project" began, with all work done by monk-carpenters/ laborers, friends and volunteers.  The project included a green roof, a post-and-beam building with handicap ramp (sustainably grown Northern Michigan trees were harvested and then skinned on-site), radiant heating systems, and the conversion of an abandoned lot into a lovely rock garden with an entry gate, made of 100% reclaimed materials.  Recently a wall-sculpture was erected made of 1917 clay mission tiles hand-removed from an old Detroit estate.

In 2008 Living Zen Organics, a non-profit organic cafe/store and food business opened.  All profits support the Zen Center's residential program, which trains students in meditation, sustainable lifestyle and skills. Profits also fund the ongoing development of several abandoned lots across the street into a public greenspace.  Both the City and County are our partners in this endeavor. 

Contact the Zen Center directly to schedule a group visit, complete with a tour and discussion of the buildings/green practices, organic cafe/food business, residential exchange program, and green Neighborhood Project.  All visits/tours are by donation.



                                        Abandoned lots to be developed into Neighborhood Greenspace