Domino's Farms celebrates 25 years of diverse business environments

Wednesday, September 22, 2010 | Source: Concentrate

Twenty five years ago, Domino's Farms opened as Ann Arbor's premiere office address, boasting about 1 million square feet of space and marquee tenants in its namesake pizza company, a law firm, and the University of Michigan's Med Sport, the university's first outpatient care center outside of U-M Hospital.

Today the iconic campus overlooking the intersection of M-14 and U.S. 23 on Ann Arbor's northeast side is the home to dozens of companies and non-profits of all shapes and sizes. More than 2,000 people work at the complex, which attracts about another 1,000 people who do business there. More than 50 companies call it home, ranging from Domino's Pizza to smaller law, engineering, and insurance firms. "We really cover all facets from entrepreneurial and research to professional," says John Petz, director of government and community relations for Domino's Farms.

It is now about 94 percent occupied. The spaces still up for lease range in size from 800-15,000 square feet. "We can still handle start-up companies to companies in the first and second phase of growth," Petz says.

The accompanying petting zoo/farm, which comes complete with a herd of buffalo, complements the complex's Prairie-style architecture, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. That influence can be seen in everything from the main building's long, horizontal design from the freeway to the furniture in its conference rooms.

"It has a timeless, American iconic design," Petz says.

Source: John Petz, director of government and community relations for Domino's Farms
Writer: Jon Zemke