Downtown Ann Arbor, Mich., is a one-of-a-kind destination, bustling with culture and expression — where art, music, dining, and an independent spirit define the experience. It was the perfect backdrop for Bill Stein’s, and his business partner Doug Zeif’s, next act upon Bill’s retirement from a long career in real estate at Blackstone.
To bring their vision to life, Bill and Doug engaged Plante Moran Realpoint to provide owner’s representation services and guide the conversion of a 100-year-old historic building into Echelon Kitchen & Bar, a truly unique, high-end contemporary restaurant. Our role included running regular team meetings between the client and vendors, financial tracking and reporting, and coordinating with the many building authorities, such as the historic commission, planning commission, and others.
Renovating a building of this age presented challenges at every turn. The project required fully gutting the interior, replacing all floor joists — work that also impacted a neighboring business — and replacing the windows with new ones that faithfully replicated the building’s original historic character. Every square foot of Echelon is intentionally designed and meticulously curated, creating a welcoming energy throughout the space. The restaurant is built for moments that unfold naturally and leave a lasting impression.
Hidden beneath the main floor is an unexpected experience: Hunã, a modern reimagining of the tiki tradition. Step inside this speakeasy and the noise of daily life fades away, replaced by tiki torches reflecting off bamboo, island breezes, and the slow rhythm of conversation. Intentionally distinct from the main restaurant, Hunã offers a completely different design and sensory experience.
Though just shy of 12,000 square feet between the restaurant and bar, this project was challenging in every sense, from design and construction to the meticulous selection of finishes and the maintenance of the building’s exterior historical integrity.
Photos courtesy of the business owners.
