The Belle Building Renovation

Originally constructed in 1926 as the Harvard Square Building, The Belle is a landmark Beaux-Arts high-rise in Detroit's Paradise Valley Historic District. Roncelli was selected by Bedrock to transform the long-vacant, 100-year-old structure into a vibrant mixed-use destination featuring 42 luxury residential apartments, street-level retail, and modern building systems while preserving the building's historic architectural character. The comprehensive renovation includes complete façade restoration, structural improvements, new roofing, window replacement, elevator modernization, and full mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection system upgrades.

Executing construction within a dense downtown environment required meticulous planning and coordination. Material deliveries were constrained by limited site access, requiring the use of a small material hoist, Fraco mast-climbing scaffolding, and carefully sequenced crane operations through existing window openings. Roncelli worked closely with historic preservation officials, architects, and specialty restoration contractors to replicate original architectural details while integrating modern life safety systems and current building code requirements without compromising the building's historic integrity.

As the construction manager, Roncelli delivered a complex urban redevelopment that brings new residential housing and retail activity to one of Detroit's historic corridors while extending the life of an architecturally significant landmark. Through disciplined preconstruction planning, logistical coordination, and preservation expertise, the team helped transform an underutilized historic asset into a vibrant mixed-use destination that contributes to the continued revitalization of downtown Detroit.