Tadd Heidgerken

Tadd Heidgerken is an Associate Professor of Architecture and Community Development at the University of Detroit Mercy's School of Architecture. He specializes in proactive design methodologies addressing post-Fordist urban conditions and slow growth development. His roles include advising the Dichotomy Architectural Journal, leading vertical studios, and teaching graduate/undergraduate courses in architectural profession and American Culture.

Educations:

• Master of Architecture, Cranbrook Academy of Arts
• Bachelor of Architecture, University of Detroit Mercy

Research focuses on integrating local community skills into design through projects like 8869 Avis (award-winning community-informed design). He collaborates internationally via programs with Politechnika Warszawska and Tecnológico de Monterrey, emphasizing multicultural exchange.

Awards:

• 2019 AIA/HUD Secretary Community-Informed Design Award
• 2019 AIA Detroit Small Project Honor Award

Advising and professional activities include:

• Founding principal of Et al. Collaborative (architecture firm)
• President of Block Party (Fitzgerald Neighborhood development group)
• Visiting critic at SUNY-Buffalo, Bartlett School of Architecture, and others

Led Detroit Mercy's international exchange programs and contributes to Detroit Collaborative Design Center initiatives. Engages with nonprofits like Corridors Alliance and Cranbrook Academy Alumni Board.