Wilkie has several favorite projects among the many they’ve designed during the past four decades. Wyandotte’s Yack Arena was the first big project he was involved in after joining the firm; the Lakes of Taylor Golf Course Clubhouse, is one of the firm’s more dramatic designs, and St. Joseph’s Church in Trenton presented challenges in design and engineering.

  

The Gibraltar Municipal Building, which has not yet been built, is a favorite project because of its design.
“The building harmonizes with the neighborhood,” says Wilkie, “and provides an architectural anchor or centerpiece for the community.”
Current projects include a visitor center and wildlife recovery center for the Heritage Park Petting Farm in Taylor, for which the architects have used an agricultural theme.
Yops & Wilkie has received design awards for One Heritage Place in Southgate and the Marshlands Museum and Nature Center at Lake Erie Metropark. During an official visit in 1997, former President Bill Clinton formally recognized the city of Taylor for its municipal offices, public service building and recreational facilities, all designed by the firm. Wilkie is modest about his contributions, ascribing credit to his employees whom he describes as talented and able.
“Our office is like a symphony orchestra,” says Wilkie.
“Like any conductor, my success has to do with the people with whom I surround myself.”
Yops & Wilkie Architects, A.I.A. has built 50-100 projects each year during its 46-year history. Pictured: (clockwise from left) Sacred Heart Catholic Church Gathering Space, Grosse Ile; Lakes of Taylor Golf Course Clubhouse, Taylor; Department of Public Works, Taylor.
Copyright Downriver Profile Magazine September 2001.

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