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Devin: What is your superpower?
Darnell: Ability to transform overlooked and neglected things—whether it’s a building, a community, or people—into valuable and thriving assets.
When a retired Detroit Battalion Fire Chief sees an abandoned firehouse, they don’t just see the past—they see the potential. That’s exactly how Darnell Stewart approached the 126-year-old firehouse he has owned for decades, envisioning it as more than just a structure, but as a hub of life and community for Detroit.
Darnell is bringing that vision to life by transforming the firehouse into a co-living community for first responders, traveling medical professionals, and other essential workers. He calls it The Firehouse Detroit. “We like the Firehouse Detroit to be a community hub for those individuals, whether or not they’re visiting the city or here on training,” he explained during today’s episode.
This project is designed not just to honor the history of the old fire station but also to provide practical, modern functionality for a sector of workers who are vital to our communities. The vision integrates dormitory-style accommodation, training facilities, and spaces to relax and connect with others from similar fields. It’s about creating a space where professionals who serve others can recharge and build camaraderie in an environment that feels like home.
Turning this long-abandoned building into a thriving community hub hasn’t been without challenges, however. Traditional financing wasn’t an option for the project. “We’ve also been told that the firehouse is such a unique project that a lot of lenders don’t feel comfortable,” Darnell shared. That’s why he turned to the power of regulated crowdfunding through the Small Change platform.
Crowdfunding has enabled him to turn obstacles into opportunities, inviting the community to be a part of his mission. “Small Change was an excellent option in order to allow other individuals to come onto the project,” he said.
Darnell’s efforts represent both a labor of love and a bold entrepreneurial move to preserve Detroit’s history while addressing practical needs in the community. With the campaign underway, he’s pushing forward, inviting all of us to share in the dream of transforming something abandoned into something vital.
After decades of service to Detroit’s Fire Department, Darnell isn’t done giving back. Instead, he’s just getting started.
tl;dr:
Darnell Stewart is turning a 126-year-old Detroit firehouse into a co-living hub for first responders.
The Firehouse Detroit will include dormitory-style living, training areas, and spaces for community connection.
Crowdfunding via Small Change is enabling community engagement and project funding despite traditional lending challenges.
Darnell’s superpower is seeing potential in neglected things and transforming them into valuable assets.
Restoring properties has allowed Darnell to uplift neighborhoods, inspire change, and continue giving back to Detroit.
How to Develop Seeing Potential As a Superpower
Darnell’s remarkable superpower is his ability to transform overlooked and neglected things—whether it’s a building, a community, or people—into valuable and thriving assets. “Even being with the fire service for over 35 years, when things got messy, we were trained in order to keep things moving,” he explained. His belief that nothing is ever so broken that it can’t be restored drives every project he takes on, from abandoned homes to forgotten firehouses.
Darnell shared how he has spent decades restoring neglected residential properties in Detroit, a city that has seen both highs and lows. One project involved turning a particularly worn-down home into a “shining star” for its neighborhood. By investing in its restoration, Darnell not only transformed the property but also uplifted the entire street’s morale, inspiring other residents to improve their neighboring homes. It’s a small example of how his vision ignites bigger change.
Tips for Developing This Superpower:
Look beyond current flaws to identify the potential in people, projects, or places.
Stay committed to restoration or improvement, even when faced with significant obstacles.
Seek out role models and mentors who have overcome similar challenges to guide your efforts.
Maintain a clear vision of the “end game” and trust that someone has solved similar problems before.
By following Darnell’s example and advice, you can make “seeing potential” a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.
Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!
Guest Profile
Darnell Stewart (he/him):
Owner/Developer, The Firehouse Detroit
About The Firehouse Detroit: The Firehouse Detroit is a restored personally owned Detroit fire station being transformed into a unique shared-living and community hub for first responders, and public safety professionals. Designed around service and brotherhood we’re excited for the opportunity to continue being a deacon to the city offering a gathering space for training, renewal, and practical lodging.
Website: thefirehousedetroit.com
Other URL: smallchange.co/projects/Fire-House-Detroit
Biographical Information: Retired Detroit Fire Department Battalion Fire Chief with 35 years of service and a lifelong commitment to community, and public safety. Today, I’m a real estate developer with several residential units and owner of The Firehouse Detroit, a historic 124-year-old firehouse being transformed into a unique residential and community-centered space for co-living, meeting, AI training and cooking classes. Blending legacy, restoration, and purpose—preserving Detroit history while creating new opportunities for connection, housing, and impact.
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/darnell-stewart-47b068128/
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