From TAKÔI to Architectural Innovation
When Philip Kafka arrived in Detroit in 2014, he saw an opportunity to practice development as art. Partnering with Chef Brad Greenhill and designer Ishtiaq Rafiuddin of UNDECORATED, they converted a garage on Michigan Avenue into KATOI (later TAKÔI), creating an electric, Southeast Asian-inspired dining room that immediately captivated the city.
After a fire destroyed the venue in 2017, the team rebuilt TAKÔI into an iconic, neon-lit sanctuary that went on to be named a James Beard semifinalist for Best New Restaurant.
Core City Park & Landscape-First Development
Kafka's signature development philosophy centers on trees, green space, and public accessibility before commercial square footage. In Core City, Prince Concepts planted over 100 trees to anchor Core City Park, surrounded by Quonset huts and restored industrial structures housing cafes, design studios, and bakeries.
The award-winning True North residential community demonstrated that low-cost steel arch structures could provide beautiful, high-design housing in the heart of Detroit.
On Designing for Detroit
"We don't build to fill space. We plant trees, build lightweight structures, and create places where people actually want to slow down and enjoy a meal."
— Philip Kafka
Career Timeline
Philip Kafka moves from NYC to Detroit and acquires 2520 Michigan Ave in Corktown to build the permanent home for TAKÔI (formerly Katoi).
Rebuilds TAKÔI with designer Ishtiaq Rafiuddin and Chef Brad Greenhill following a devastating fire, earning national James Beard Award nominations.
Develops True North and Core City Park—transforming a forgotten intersection into a quonset-hut architectural park and culinary gathering place.
Prince Concepts continues expanding Core City with sustainable, landscape-first commercial and residential developments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Philip Kafka?
Philip Kafka is a real estate developer, restaurateur, and founder of Prince Concepts, known for building TAKÔI and reshaping Detroit's Core City neighborhood through architectural design and lush urban parks.
What is Prince Concepts' Instagram?
Follow Prince Concepts on Instagram at @princeconcepts for updates on Core City architecture, new culinary projects, and landscape design.
What restaurants did Philip Kafka develop?
He collaborated on the design and development of TAKÔI in Corktown, Magnet, and various Core City food and hospitality concepts.