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{{Short description|Skyscrapers in Detroit, Michigan}} | |||
{{Infobox Skyscraper | |||
{{Use mdy dates|date=December 2024|cs1-dates=y}} | |||
| building_name = Renaissance Center | |||
{{Use American English|date=December 2024}} | |||
| image = ] | |||
{{Redirect|Renaissance Centre|the skyscraper in Erie, Pennsylvania|Renaissance Centre (Erie, Pennsylvania)}} | |||
| caption = ''International Riverfront'' | |||
{{Infobox building | |||
| built = 1977 <br> 1981 (towers 500 and 600) <br> 2004 (renovated) | |||
| |
| name = Renaissance Center | ||
| |
| image = Renaissance_Center_riverfront_view_2022.jpg | ||
| |
| image_size = | ||
| |
| caption = GM Renaissance Center in May 2022 | ||
| |
| logo = File:GMRENCEN logo.svg | ||
| logo_size = 150px | |||
| floor_count = 73 story tower with four <br> 39 story towers and two <br> 21 story towers | |||
| location = 100 Renaissance Center<br />], Michigan 48243<br />United States | |||
| floor_area = {{convert|5552000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} complex<ref name=SOM/> | |||
| coordinates = {{coord|42.3289|-83.0397|region:US-MI|display=inline,title}} | |||
| architect = ], ], Gensler, ], Ghafari Associates | |||
| |
| start_date = 1973 | ||
| completion_date = {{start date and age|1977}}<br />{{start date and age|1981}} (towers 500–600) | |||
|}} | |||
| renovation_date = 2004 | |||
| building_type = Hotel<br />Commercial offices<br />Retail | |||
| architectural_style = ]<br>] | |||
| antenna_spire = {{convert|750|ft|abbr=on}} | |||
| roof = {{convert|727|ft|abbr=on}} | |||
| top_floor = {{convert|697|ft|abbr=on}} | |||
| floor_count = 73 floors x 1<br />39 floors x 4<br />21 floors x 2 | |||
| diameter = {{convert|188|ft|abbr=on}} (central tower) | |||
| elevator_count = | |||
| floor_area = {{convert|5552000|sqft|abbr=on}} | |||
| architect = ] | |||
| ren_architect = ]<br />]<br />]<br />] | |||
| structural_engineer = Morris E. Harrison & Associates | |||
| main_contractor = ] | |||
| ren_contractor = ] | |||
| developer = | |||
| owner = ] | |||
| management = ] | |||
| references = <ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.emporis.com/complex/100346 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160620000859/https://www.emporis.com/complex/100346 |url-status=usurped |archive-date=June 20, 2016 |title=General Motors Renaissance Center |work=]}}</ref><ref>{{Glass Steel and Stone|401|Renaissance Center}}</ref><ref name="SkyscraperPage">{{SkyscraperPage|3523|Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center}}</ref><ref name="Structurae">{{Structurae|20027655|Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center}}</ref><ref name=SOM/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://buildingdb.ctbuh.org/?do=building&building_id=1225 |title=Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center Facts| publisher=CTBUH Skyscraper Database |access-date=August 15, 2012}}</ref> | |||
| public_transit = {{rint|detroit|dpm}} ]<br>{{bus icon}} ] 3, 9<br>{{bus icon}} ] Michigan, Woodward<br>{{bus icon}} ] 805, 851<br>{{bus icon}} ] Tunnel Bus | |||
| website = {{URL|https://gmrencen.com/}} | |||
}} | |||
{{Infobox hotel | |||
| hotel_name = Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center | |||
| logo = Marriott hotels logo14.svg | |||
| logo_width = 100px | |||
| image = Headquarters of GM in Detroit.jpg | |||
| caption = | |||
| location = ] | |||
| address = {{nowrap|400 Renaissance Center Drive}}<br />], Michigan | |||
| chain = ] | |||
| coordinates = {{Coord|42.3289|-83.0397|region:US-MI_type:landmark|display=inline}} | |||
| opening_date = 1977 | |||
| operator = ] | |||
| owner = General Motors | |||
| number_of_rooms = 1,246 | |||
| number_of_suites = 52 | |||
| number_of_restaurants = ''Coach Insignia''<br />''Forty-two Degrees North''<br />''Volt'' | |||
| floor_area = Meeting space: {{convert|100000|sqft|abbr=on}} | |||
| floors = 73 | |||
| height = {{convert|727|ft|abbr=on}} | |||
| parking = Valet and self | |||
| website = | |||
| footnotes = <ref name="SkyscraperPage"/><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.emporis.com/buildings/118550 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160328154834/https://www.emporis.com/buildings/118550 |url-status=usurped |archive-date=March 28, 2016 |title=Marriott Renaissance Center |work=]}}</ref><ref name="Structurae"/> | |||
}} | |||
The '''Renaissance Center''' |
The '''Renaissance Center''', commonly known as the '''RenCen''',<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Frank |first=Annalise |date=2024-04-17 |title=What's next for the Renaissance Center |url=https://www.axios.com/local/detroit/2024/04/17/whats-next-for-the-rencen |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=Axios |language=en}}</ref> is a complex of seven connected ] in ], ], United States. Located on the ], the RenCen is owned and used by ] as its world headquarters. The complex includes a 73-story ] hotel at its center,{{efn|Despite the name, the hotel is not affiliated with the ] chain, also owned by Marriott.|name=fn1|group=lower-alpha}} surrounded by four 39-story office towers, connected by a large square podium containing public spaces, a conference center, retail stores, restaurants, and a company showroom.<ref name="DetroitAIA1980">{{cite book |last1=Meyer |first1=Katherine Mattingly |url=https://archive.org/details/detroitarchitect0000unse |title=Detroit Architecture A.I.A. Guide Revised Edition |last2=McElroy |first2=Martin C.P. |author3=Introduction by W. Hawkins Ferry, Hon A.I.A. |publisher=Wayne State University Press |year=1980 |isbn=0-8143-1651-4 |url-access=registration}}</ref><ref name="DetArch" /> | ||
] |
Developed as an ] project in the 1970s, the Renaissance Center was envisioned as a "city-within-a-city," and was meant to anchor a wider redevelopment of the ] city of Detroit. The project was developed and funded by a consortium led by the ], and ] served as its principal architect.<ref name="DetArch">{{cite book| last=Sharoff| first=Robert| title=American City: Detroit Architecture| publisher=]| year=2005| isbn=0-8143-3270-6| author-link=Robert Sharoff}}</ref> The five original towers were built in the ] architectural style and completed in 1977, with two matching towers added later in 1981. | ||
General Motors purchased the Renaissance Center in 1996, and relocated its global headquarters to the complex. An extensive renovation, completed in 2004, significantly altered its ] interior, improved access to the center from downtown, and added a new glass retail atrium and public plaza on the riverfront.<ref name="makeover">{{cite news| last=Mercer| first=Tenisha| date=October 19, 2005| url=http://www.detnews.com/2005/business/0510/19/C06-353512.htm| title=GM's RenCen renovation attracts new business back| work=]| access-date=July 24, 2007}}{{dead link|date=January 2016}}</ref><ref name="DetroitInteriors">AIA Detroit Urban Priorities Committee, (January 10, 2006). ''Model D Media''. Retrieved on November 23, 2007.</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharoff |first=Robert |date=2004-09-15 |title=G.M. Helps to Drive a Detroit Revival |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2004/09/15/business/gm-helps-to-drive-a-detroit-revival.html |website=]}}</ref> | |||
A distinctive feature of Detroit's skyline, the RenCen is widely considered to be a ] and ] of the city.<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":2" /> With {{convert|5552000|sqft}} of usable space, it is one of the ], and the central tower has been the ] since its completion in 1977.<ref name="SOM"> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090823134244/http://www.som.com/content.cfm/general_motors_renaissance_center_interiors|date=August 23, 2009}}. ''Skidmore Ownings & Merrill''. Retrieved on August 21, 2009.</ref><ref name="Hines">.''Hines''. Retrieved on July 7, 2008.</ref> At the time of its completion, the Renaissance Center was the largest private development in the history of the United States,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Austin |first=Dan |title=Renaissance Center |url=https://historicdetroit.org/buildings/renaissance-center |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=Historic Detroit}}</ref> and the central tower was the ].<ref name="tallesthotel">{{Cite web |date= |title=Official World's 100 Tallest High-rise Buildings (Hotel Use) |url=http://www.emporis.com/en/bu/sk/st/tp/ty/ho/ |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040415085447/http://www.emporis.com/en/bu/sk/st/tp/ty/ho/ |archive-date=2004-04-15 |access-date= |website=]}}</ref> | |||
In recent years, the massive center has struggled with declining occupancy, particularly stemming from increased ] amidst the ].<ref>{{Cite web |last1=LaReau |first1=Jamie |last2=Reindl |first2=JC |title=Detroit's RenCen is at a crossroads — and only GM knows what's next |url=https://www.freep.com/story/money/2022/06/23/gm-rencen-tenants-remote-workers/7608005001/ |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20220623115234/https://www.freep.com/story/money/2022/06/23/gm-rencen-tenants-remote-workers/7608005001/#selection-441.0-446.0 |archive-date=2022-06-23 |website=]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Curry |first=Ebony JJ |date=2024-06-04 |title=A Renaissance at Risk: Detroit's Iconic Center Faces Uncertain Future |url=https://michiganchronicle.com/a-renaissance-at-risk-detroits-iconic-center-faces-uncertain-future/ |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=] |language=en-US}}</ref> General Motors has announced plans to relocate its headquarters away from the Renaissance Center in 2025, leaving the future of the complex uncertain. Redevelopment of the RenCen is currently under consideration, and could include full or partial demolition.<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Ikonomova |first=Violet |date=2024-12-01 |title='Extortion' tactic: GM panned for floating five-tower RenCen demo if tax breaks rejected |url=https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/detroit/2024/12/01/gm-tear-down-rencen-towers-subsidies-rejected/76658555007/ |access-date=2024-12-02 |website=] |language=en-US}}</ref> | |||
==History== | ==History== | ||
The idea was first conceived by ], then-chairman of the Ford Motor Company. In 1970, to bring his idea to life, Ford teamed up with other business leaders to form the Detroit Renaissance. This was a private non-profit development organization which Ford headed in order to stimulate building activity and revitalize the economy of ].<ref name="RenCen">Detroit News Staff (September 29, 2001). {{webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20130102164543/http://info.detnews.com/redesign/history/story/historytemplate.cfm?id=122|date=January 2, 2013}} Michigan History, ''The Detroit News.'' Retrieved on November 23, 2007.</ref><ref name="AIADetroit">{{cite book|title=AIA Detroit: The American Institute of Architects Guide to Detroit Architecture|last1=Hill|first1=Eric J.|last2=Gallagher|first2=John|publisher=Wayne State University Press|year=2002|isbn=0-8143-3120-3|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/aiadetroitameric0000hill}}</ref> Henry Ford II sold the concept of the RenCen to the City and community leaders. Detroit ] ] touted the project as ''a complete rebuilding from bridge to bridge,'' referring to the area between the ], that connects Detroit to ], and the MacArthur Bridge, which connects the city with ].<ref name="RenCen" /> | |||
The Detroit Renaissance announced the first phase of construction in 1971, receiving primary financing from the ]. It soon became the world's largest private development with an anticipated 1971 cost of $500 million.<ref name="RenCen" /> The principal architect was ], the architect behind the ] and the ] in ]; the ] in ]; and the ] in ]. | |||
In 1970, Ford Motor Company Chairman Henry Ford II teamed up with other business leaders to form Detroit Renaissance, a private non-profit development organization, which he headed in order to stimulate building activity in the city. The group announced the first phase of construction in 1971. In addition, Detroit Renaissance contributed to a variety of other projects within the downtown area in the ensuing decades. Henry Ford II sold the concept of the RenCen to the City and community leaders. Detroit ] ] touted the project as ''a complete rebuilding from bridge to bridge,'' referring to the area between the ] that connected Detroit to ] and the MacArthur Bridge, which connects the city with ].<ref name=RenCen/> | |||
The ''city within a city'' arose. The first phase of Renaissance Center opened on July 1, 1976. For phase I, the facade of the first five towers was covered with {{convert|2000000|sqft|m2|-3|sp=us}} of glass, and used about {{convert|400000|cuyd|m3}} of concrete.<ref name=RenCen/> This did not include the additional glass used for the atriums.<ref name=DetroitAIA1980/> It also cost $337 million to construct, employing 7,000 workers.<ref name="RenCen" /> The heating and cooling systems for the buildings were housed in two-story concrete berms facing Jefferson Avenue.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Renaissance Center: Jefferson Street Entrance (Detroit, MI) : Close view of the new glass football-shaped entry pavilion - Yale University Library |url=https://findit.library.yale.edu/catalog/digcoll:1850751 |access-date=2022-07-06 |website=findit.library.yale.edu}}</ref> Other phases that included residences, additional office and retail space were never constructed. | |||
] | |||
The ''city within a city'' arose. The first tower of the Renaissance Center opened on July 1, 1976. Principal ] ] was also the architect for the ] and the ] in ]; the ] in ]; and the ] in ]. For phase I, the facade of the first five towers was covered with {{convert|2000000|sqft|m2|-3|sp=us|abbr=on}} of glass, and used about {{convert|400000|cuyd|m3}} of concrete.<ref name=RenCen/> This did not include the additional glass used for the atriums.<ref name=DetroitAIA1980/> | |||
When the Renaissance Center opened, the ] central tower was originally the ] of Westin Hotels. The top three floors of the hotel hosted an upscale restaurant, The Summit, that rotated to allow a 360 ] view.<ref name="DetroitAIA1980" /> The shopping center in the podium originally housed high-end boutiques, but now contains a greater complement of restaurants in the retail mix.<ref name="RenCen" /> | |||
Phase I of the Renaissance Center cost $337 million to construct, employing 7,000 workers.<ref name=RenCen/> In 1977, the central hotel tower of the Renaissance Center, which opened as a Westin Hotel, became the world's tallest all-hotel skyscraper,<ref name=tallesthotel/> surpassing its architectural twin, the ] in Atlanta. What is today known as the ] (1986) in ] had surpassed it. Since 1986, the Renaissance Center's central tower has remained the tallest all-hotel skyscraper in the ].<ref name="tallesthotel"/> | |||
In 1977, managed by ],<ref name="RenCen" /> the central hotel tower of the Renaissance Center opened as the Detroit Plaza Hotel. It became the world's tallest all-hotel skyscraper<ref name="tallesthotel" /> surpassing its architectural twin, the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel in Atlanta. Its opening ended the ]'s 49-year reign as the tallest building in Michigan. The hotel was later renamed The Westin Hotel Renaissance Center Detroit. In 1986, it was surpassed in height by ] in ]. Since, the Renaissance Center's central tower has held the distinction as the tallest all-hotel skyscraper in the ].<ref name="tallesthotel" /><ref name="rencen1">{{cite web| title=Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center| url=http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=marriottrenaissancecenter-detroit-mi-usa| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070429003515/http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=marriottrenaissancecenter-detroit-mi-usa| url-status=usurped| archive-date=April 29, 2007| publisher=Emporis.com| access-date=September 19, 2009}}</ref> | |||
] pods.]] | |||
On ], ], Henry Ford II and Detroit mayor ] unveiled a plaque commemorating the private investors whose funds made the project possible and, later that evening, 650 business and society leaders attended a benefit celebrating the Renaissance Center's formal dedication. The money raised from the $300-per-couple tickets went to the ]. When it opened, the ] central tower was originally the ] of the ]. The top three floors of the hotel hosted an upscale restaurant, The Summit, that rotated to allow a 360 ] view.<ref name=DetroitAIA1980/> | |||
On April 15, 1977, Henry Ford II and Detroit mayor ] unveiled a plaque commemorating the private investors whose funds made the project possible. Later that evening, 650 business and society leaders attended a benefit to celebrate the Renaissance Center's formal dedication. The money raised from the $300-per-couple tickets went to the ]. | |||
In 1980, Detroit hosted the ] which nominated ] who had stayed at the Renaissance Center while in Detroit.<ref name=Porembra>{{Cite book | author=Poremba, David Lee | title=Detroit in Its World Setting (timeline) | publisher=Wayne State University | year=2001 | isbn=0-8143-2870-9}}</ref><ref name=Almanac2>{{Cite book| author=Gavrilovich, Peter and Bill McGraw |title=The Detroit Almanac, 2nd edition|publisher=Detroit Free Press| year=2006|isbn=9780937247488}}</ref> | |||
] | |||
During the ], hosted at nearby ], presidential nominee ] and former President ] both stayed at the Renaissance Center.<ref name=Porembra>{{cite book| last=Poremba| first=David Lee| title=Detroit in Its World Setting (timeline)| publisher=Wayne State University Press| year=2001| isbn=0-8143-2870-9| url-access=registration| url=https://archive.org/details/detroitinitsworl0000unse}}</ref><ref name=Almanac2>{{cite book| last1=Gavrilovich| first1=Peter| first2=Bill| last2=McGraw | title=The Detroit Almanac| edition=2nd| publisher=Detroit Free Press| year=2006| isbn=978-0-937247-48-8}}</ref> | |||
In 1987, the elevated ] transit line began operation with a ]. | |||
Metro Detroit expanded upon the city within a city concept with the nearby {{convert|2200000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} ] office complex with its five inter-connected golden skyscrapers constructed from 1975 to 1989. In the ensuing years, the Renaissance Center would face competition from the growing suburban office market.<ref name=DetroitAIA1980>{{Cite book | author=Meyer, Katherine Mattingly and Martin C.P. McElroy with Introduction by W. Hawkins Ferry, Hon A.I.A.| title=Detroit Architecture A.I.A. Guide Revised Edition | year= 1980| publisher= Wayne State University Press| isbn = 0-8143-1651-4}}</ref> | |||
=== General Motors ownership === | |||
In 1987, the elevated monorail ], after many years of construction, began operation with a ]. At first, the Ford Motor Company had occupied many offices in the building. In 1996, ] purchased the complex and moved its world headquarters to the Renaissance Center downtown from what is now the historic ] state office complex in the ] district,<ref name=NewCenter>. Retrieved on May 16, 2009.</ref> northwest of downtown. | |||
In 1996, ] purchased the complex and moved its world headquarters from what is now the historic ] state office complex in the ] district,<ref name="NewCenter">. Retrieved on May 16, 2009.</ref> to the Renaissance Center, in downtown Detroit. Meanwhile, ] maintained offices in one of the towers in the center.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1996/05/17/us/gm-buys-a-landmark-of-detroit-for-its-home.html |title=G.M. Buys A Landmark Of Detroit For Its Home |last=Meredith |first=Robin |date=May 17, 1996 |work=The New York Times |access-date=November 15, 2019 |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> Before the acquisition, ] had its headquarters in the center. | |||
In December 2001, General Motors unveiled the ''Wintergarden'' retail atrium. Designed by ], it rises {{convert|103|ft|m}} tall at its highest point opening direct access to the International Riverfront. In addition, the atrium contains {{convert|150000|sqft|m2}} of retail space and {{convert|40000|sqft|m2}} of contiguous main floor exhibit space which was used by the media during Super Bowl XL.<ref name="Hines" /> | |||
By 2004, GM completed an extensive $500 million renovation of the Renaissance Center.<ref name=makeover/> This included a $100 million makeover for the hotel. Among GM's first actions was to remove the concrete berms facing Jefferson Avenue. The renovation includes a lighted glass walkway which encircles the interior mezzanine for ease of navigation, while the addition of the Wintergarden provides riverfront access and a view of Canada. A covered ] over Jefferson Avenue connects to the ], ], and ].<ref name=makeover/> | |||
The $500 million renovation of the Renaissance Center completed in 2003 has helped improve Detroit's economy.<ref name="makeover" /> Together, GM's renovation of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit Riverwalk exceeded $1 billion; the project constituted a substantial investment in downtown. More than 10,000 people (of whom 6,000 are GM employees) work in the complex.<ref name="GMRenCen" /> Nearly 2,000 state workers now occupy GM's former office building, the restored Cadillac Place, in the historic New Center district.<ref name="NewCenter" /> | |||
The Renaissance Center is owned by General Motors. The hotel in the central tower is now occupied by the ] hotel chain and is called the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center. The 1,298 room hotel is one of the largest operated by Marriott. The rooftop restaurant (which no longer rotates) received a $10 million renovation and is occupied by the Matt Prentice Restaurant Groups Coach Insignia. It serves Coach wines, a product of the Fisher family whose legacy includes ], a name which is part of GM history.<ref name=Coach>. Matt Prentice Restaurant Group. Retrieved on May 16, 2009.</ref> | |||
Architects' initial design for the Renaissance Center focused on creating secure ''interior spaces'', while its design later expanded and improved to connect with the exterior spaces and waterfront through a reconfigured interior, open glass entryways, and a winter garden.<ref name="DetArch" /><ref>{{cite book| author1-link=John C. Portman Jr. | last1=Portman| first1=John| first2=Jonathan| last2=Barnett| year=1976| title=The Architect as Developer| publisher=McGraw Hill| isbn=0-07-050536-5}}</ref> By 2004, GM completed an extensive $500 million renovation of the Renaissance Center.<ref name="makeover" /> This included a $100 million makeover for the hotel. Among GM's first actions was to remove the concrete berms facing Jefferson Avenue. The renovation includes a lighted glass walkway which encircles the interior mezzanine for ease of navigation, while the addition of the winter garden provides riverfront access and a view of Canada. A covered ] over Jefferson Avenue connects to the ], Courtyard by Marriott - Downtown Detroit, and ].<ref name="makeover" /> | |||
The Renaissance Center's renovation provides for the prospect of continued development and restorations throughout the city. Architectural critics have touted the city's architecture as among America's finest.<ref name="DetArch"/> | |||
The Wintergarden added to the Renaissance Center faces the Riverfront and provides panoramic views of the Windsor skyline. The complex connects offices, the hotel, retail specialty shops, restaurants, a jazz club, and a movie theater. The theater has since closed and been converted to offices.<ref name="Free Press Theater Closing">{{cite news |last=Witsil |first=Frank |date=July 30, 2015 |title=After long run, Ren Cen 4 Theatre closing |url=http://www.freep.com/story/money/business/michigan/2015/06/30/ren-cen-theatre-closing/29511439/ |access-date=November 19, 2017 |work=]}}</ref> A pedestrian-friendly glass entryway has replaced the former concrete berms along Jefferson Avenue. The redevelopment provides the ''GM World'' display of vehicles, a restored hotel, a renovated rooftop restaurant, and the addition of GM's corporate logo to crown the top of the building. Construction of the lighted glass walkway facilitates ease of navigation encircling the interior mezzanine. ] completed redevelopment of Towers 500 and 600 for GM in 2004.<ref name="Hines" /><ref name="Tower500" /><ref name="Tower600" /> | |||
== Statistics == | |||
{| class="wikitable" | |||
The Riverfront Promenade was dedicated on December 17, 2004, and helped to usher in a return to recreational uses along Detroit's International Riverfront. GM played a key role in the transformation of the east riverfront with a donation of $135 million to the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy for the development of a world class riverfront promenade planned at $559 million, which included $50 million from the Kresge foundation.<ref>Detroit News Editorial (December 13, 2002). At Last, Sensible Dream for Detroit's Riverfront. ''Detroit News''.</ref> In 2011, the Detroit Wayne County Port Authority opened its new state of the art cruise ship dock and passenger terminal on Hart Plaza, adjacent to the Renaissance Center.<ref name="dock">. (June 21, 2004). ''PRNewswire''. Retrieved on July 24, 2008.</ref><ref name="Detroit Free Press reference">{{cite news |last=Gallagher |first=John |date=July 17, 2011 |title=First Cruise Passengers Arrive at new Detroit Terminal |url=http://www.freep.com/article/20110717/NEWS01/107170531/First-cruise-passengers-due-arrive-Monday-new-Detroit-River-terminal |access-date=December 2, 2013 |work=]}}</ref> Port authority bonds financed another 1,500 space parking garage adjacent to the Renaissance Center. Further upriver, the ] faces the east riverfront. In addition to the gradual continuation of the riverfront promenade, other planned projects complementing the Renaissance Center continue along the International Riverfont which include development of luxury condominiums, a cruise ship passenger terminal, retail, and entertainment venues.<ref name="Partnership"> {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080613121052/http://www.theworldiscoming.com/seethechange.html|date=June 13, 2008}}. ''City of Detroit Partnership''. Retrieved on May 16, 2009.</ref> | |||
! style="background:light gray; color:black"|Building | |||
! style="background:light gray; color:black"|Image | |||
In 2011, the Renaissance Center added colored LED lighting on the top of its towers (Towers 500 and 600 utilize traditional blue floodlights to illuminate their top floors). General Motors added a large illuminated LED corporate logo which also displays GM divisions. The animated logo and illuminated LED color bands around the towers can be used to support special events and may be seen from Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers. The renovation of TCF Center convention and exhibit facility incorporates similar blue neon lighting along riverfront promenade. | |||
! style="background:light gray; color:black"|Year | |||
! style="background:light gray; color:black"|Stories | |||
In July 2010, ] announced plans to lease {{convert|435245|sqft|m2}} of Tower 500 and Tower 600 and relocate 3,000 of its employees from its building in Southfield, Michigan. | |||
! style="background:light gray; color:black"|Height<br><small>feet / m</small> | |||
! style="background:light gray; color:black"|Area<br><small>] / ]</small> | |||
In January 2015, General Motors announced its intent to renovate much of the complex to make it more inviting as a destination for visitors to Detroit.<ref name="Welch">{{cite news|url=http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20160122/NEWS/160129942/gm-to-launch-large-scale-renovation-of-renaissance-center-this-summer|title=GM to launch large-scale renovation of Renaissance Center this summer |last=Welch|first=Sherri |date=January 16, 2016 |publisher=Crain's Detroit |access-date=February 2, 2016}}</ref> That July, the complex was re-branded as "The GM'''REN'''CEN, and" Its logo was modernized and "Reflecting a New Detroit" was introduced as the new tagline. A photo-journalistic advertising campaign launched to "shine a spotlight on the people in Detroit who make remarkable contributions" to the city. | |||
! style="background:light gray; color:black"|Principal tenant(s) | |||
The Renaissance Center is owned by General Motors. The hotel in the central tower is now managed by the ] hotel chain and is called the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center. The 1,298-room hotel is one of the largest operated by Marriott. The rooftop restaurant (which previously had revolved) received a $10 million renovation and was operated by The Epicurean Groups's Coach Insignia (closed in 2017<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|url=http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20180121/news/650721/new-restaurant-planned-for-top-of-rencen |title=New restaurant planned for top of RenCen |date=January 21, 2018 |work=Crain's Detroit Business |access-date=February 20, 2018}}</ref>). It served Coach wines, a product of the Fisher family whose legacy includes ], a name which is part of GM history.<ref name="Coach">. The Epicurean Group. Retrieved on October 23, 2013.</ref> | |||
The Renaissance Center's renovation provides for the prospect of continued development and restorations throughout the city. Architectural critics have touted the city's architecture as among North America's finest.<ref name="DetArch" /><ref name="modelD"> AIA Detroit.''Model D'' media, Retrieved on July 4, 2010.</ref> | |||
In its first year of operation it generated over $1 billion in economic growth for the downtown.<ref name="DetroitAIA1980" /> Detroit Renaissance continued to interact with the city, by contributing to a variety of projects within the downtown area in the ensuing decades. | |||
=== General Motors exit and redevelopment === | |||
On April 15, 2024, GM announced its intention to move its headquarters from the Renaissance Center to the under-construction ] in 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |title=GM to move headquarters from RenCen to Hudson's site |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/business/autos/general-motors/2024/04/15/gm-to-move-headquarters-from-rencen-to-hudsons-site/73326824007/ |access-date=2024-04-15 |website=The Detroit News |language=en-US}}</ref> GM publicly committed to redeveloping the RenCen, but their planned exit sparked public speculation that it could be demolished, a possibility which CEO ] declined to rule out.<ref>{{Cite web |last=LaReau |first=Jamie L. |date=2024-05-23 |title=GM CEO Mary Barra doesn't rule out demolition of Renaissance Center |url=https://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/general-motors/2024/05/23/gm-barra-demolition-detroit-renaissance-center/73820279007/ |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=] |language=en-US}}</ref> GM retained Bedrock Detroit, the real estate firm developing Hudson's Detroit, to consult on the redevelopment.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brownell |first=Bradley |date=2024-10-02 |title=GM's Renaissance Center Is Mostly Empty |url=https://jalopnik.com/gms-renaissance-center-is-mostly-empty-1851663119 |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=] |language=en}}</ref> | |||
GM and Bedrock revealed a conceptual plan for the RenCen's redevelopment in November 2024.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Noble |first1=Breana |last2=Hall |first2=Kalea |last3=Williams |first3=Candice |last4=LeBlanc |first4=Beth |date=November 25, 2024 |title=RenCen would lose two towers, add apartments, riverfront park under new proposal |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/business/2024/11/25/renaissance-center-general-motors-bedrock-detroit-dan-gilbert-redevelopment-riverfront-rencen-gm/76566223007/ |access-date=December 11, 2024 |website=The Detroit News}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> The plan calls for the demolition of two of the RenCen's office towers, 300 and 400, and most of the existing public and retail spaces at its base.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last1=Ikonomova |first1=Violet |last2=Lobo |first2=Arpan |last3=Reindl |first3=JC |date=2024-11-25 |title=Main RenCen tower stays, 2 others to be demolished, in proposed revamp of Detroit complex |url=https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/detroit/2024/11/25/rencen-renaissance-center-tower-demolition/76570266007/ |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=] |language=en-US}}</ref> Under this plan, one of the remaining office towers would be converted to rental apartments; the central tower would remain a hotel, but its upper floors would also be converted to rental apartments.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last1=Hall |first1=Kalea |last2=LeBlanc |first2=Beth |last3=Noble |first3=Breana |last4=Williams |first4=Candice |title=GM, Gilbert seek state funding for massive overhaul of RenCen, riverfront |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/business/2024/11/25/renaissance-center-general-motors-bedrock-detroit-dan-gilbert-redevelopment-riverfront-rencen-gm/76566223007/ |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=] |language=en-US}}</ref> | |||
The two companies stated that they planned to provide the majority of the $1.6 billion required for the proposed redevelopment, but they expect $250 million in subsidies from the state of Michigan, and $100 million in ] from the Detroit Downtown Development Authority.<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Pevos |first=Edward |date=2024-11-25 |title=Plans revealed for future of Michigan's tallest building, the GM Ren Cen |url=https://www.mlive.com/news/2024/11/plans-revealed-for-future-of-michigans-tallest-building-the-gm-ren-cen.html |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Pinho |first=Kirk |date=November 23, 2024 |title=RenCen plan would demolish 2 towers |url=https://www.crainsdetroit.com/real-estate/renaissance-center-demolition-gm-dan-gilbert |access-date=December 11, 2024 |website=Crain's Detroit Business}}</ref> The companies' demand for taxpayer funding of the project was met with public opposition by many state lawmakers, including ], the ].<ref name=":2" /> In response, General Motors later stated that if lawmakers did not provide taxpayer funding, they would demolish the entire RenCen at their own expense, a proposal described by the '']'' as "likely... the largest voluntary skyscraper demolition in world history."<ref name=":4" /> Opponents of the demolition likened the proposal to "extortion".<ref name=":4" /><ref>{{cite web |last=Perkins |first=Tom |date=December 10, 2024 |title=GM accused of 'extortion' over threat to tear down Detroit's tallest skyscraper |url=https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/dec/10/gm-detroit-skyscraper-rencen-taxpayers |access-date=December 11, 2024 |website=the Guardian}}</ref> | |||
==Location== | |||
] from Belle Isle]] | |||
The Renaissance Center is a riverfront property located along the Detroit River. Approximately one-mile north of the center are ] and ], the respective venues for the ] and ]. The US portal of the ] emerges adjacent to the western boundary of the Renaissance Center. The Renaissance Center is also a station on the Detroit People Mover.<ref name="AIADetroit" /> Additionally a pedestrian skyway, over Jefferson Avenue, connects the complex to the Millender Center. Several blocks to the west of the Renaissance Center, along Jefferson Avenue, there are the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, ], ] (formerly Cobo Center, home to events such as the ] and ]) and the ] (former home of the ]). The ] is located just across Jefferson Avenue. The Renaissance Center's ] ] balances the city's panoramic waterfront ], a frequent feature in photography taken from Windsor, Ontario,<ref name=AIADetroit/> across the river. From the top of Renaissance Center's previous Coach Insignia restaurant (closed in 2017<ref name=":0" />), patrons were able to peer down upon the neogothic spires of the ] and the city's ] skyscrapers and stadiums. The view from the top extended for {{convert|30|mi|km}} in all directions.] and Rivard Plaza ]]] | |||
The Renaissance Center grounds constitute ] 48243.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Encyclopedia of Detroit: Renaissance Center |url=https://detroithistorical.org/learn/encyclopedia-of-detroit/renaissance-center |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Detroit ZIP Codes |url=https://datadrivendetroit.org/files/WKKF/DetroitZips.pdf |website=Data Driven Detroit}}</ref> | |||
==Architecture== | |||
] | |||
] | |||
The centerpiece is the 73-story 727-foot (221.5 m) luxury hotel with 1,246 rooms and 52 suites (1298 total guest rooms). Its height is measured from its main Wintergarden entrance on Atwater Street which faces the International Riverfront where the complex measures {{convert|14|ft|m}} taller. Entirely owned by General Motors, the complex has {{convert|5552000|sqft|m2}} of space.<ref name="SOM" /><ref name="GMRenCen">. ''GM Renaissance Center''. Retrieved on July 7, 2008.</ref> The main Renaissance Center complex rises from a {{convert|14|acre|adj=on}} site.<ref name="GMRenCen" /> The complex is designed in the modern architectural style with glass as a main material.] | |||
Famous for its ] design, the central hotel tower's ] is {{convert|188|ft|m}}.<ref name="GMRenCen" /> A lighted glass walkway radiates the ] level and encircles the base of cylindrical hotel tower for ease of navigation. This ringed glass walkway is about {{convert|12|ft}} wide and has a ] of approximately {{convert|660|ft}} or about one-eighth of a mile around.<ref name="GMRenCen" /> The ringed walkway's diameter is approximately {{convert|210|ft}}. It links to several other walkways in the complex. The five-story Wintergarden atrium leads into the central area which has an eight-story atrium lobby with rounded ] ] and terraces. The Highlands is located on Floors 71 through 73, which includes a restaurant, scotch bar, and special events space.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Selasky |first=Susan |title=Dining returns to the top of Renaissance Center with Detroit's skyline view |url=https://www.freep.com/story/entertainment/dining/2019/11/25/high-altitude-dining-returns-top-detroits-rencen/4288442002/ |access-date=2022-07-07 |website=Detroit Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref> The hotel has no floors labeled 7, 8, or 13. The hotel features a major conference center with {{convert|100000|sqft}} of meeting space including a Renaissance Ballroom for up to 2,200 guests with {{convert|26000|sqft|m2}} for events, one of the largest in the United States.<ref name="DetroitAIA1980" /><ref name="DetArch" /> | |||
John Portman designed the five-building ] with ''interior spaces.''<ref name="DetArch" /> In 1977, its central tower opened as the tallest hotel in the world.<ref name="tallesthotel" /> It remains the tallest all hotel skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere.<ref name="tallesthotel" /> The smaller cylinders on sides of all the towers house the ]s. The four surrounding 39-story office towers (100–400) each reach 522 feet (159 m) and have a total of {{convert|2200000|sqft|m2|-2}} of space.<ref name="Hines" /><ref name="GMRenCen" /> Each 39-story tower has a base five-story podium structure with {{convert|165000|sqft|m2}} for retail space for a total of {{convert|660000|sqft|m2}}.<ref name="Hines" /> A portion of the central ] area houses ''GM World'', a showcase for GM vehicles. Two 21-story towers (500–600), designed by Portman and constructed in 1981, reach 339 feet (103 m). GM gained control of Towers 500 and 600 in 2001.<ref name="Hines" /> Tower 500 has {{convert|307300|sqft|m2|-1}} of office space and an additional {{convert|14485|sqft|m2|-1}} of retail space.<ref name="Tower500"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160109114937/http://www.hines.com/property/detail.aspx?id=1711 |date=January 9, 2016}}.''Hines''. Retrieved on August 22, 2009.</ref> Tower 600 has {{convert|304200|sqft|m2|-1}} of office space and an additional {{convert|35730|sqft|m2|-1}} of retail space.<ref name="Tower600"> {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090727220532/http://www.hines.com/property/detail.aspx?id=1712 |date=July 27, 2009}}.''Hines''. Retrieved on August 22, 2009.</ref> | |||
Towers 100 and 200 front Jefferson Avenue. Towers 300 and 400 are on the main Wintergarden/Atwater Street entrance facing the Riverfront. The GM Renaissance Conference Center is located on the second floor of tower 300.<ref name="Hines" /> | |||
The design is consistent with the themes of ], especially in the heavy massing of concrete on the lower floors, but the 2001 renovation has softened those features. | |||
The "city within a city" concept was duplicated in the suburb of ], when the ] office complex - with five inter-connected golden skyscrapers and an overall area of {{convert|2200000|sqft|m2}} - was constructed from 1975 to 1989. In the ensuing years, the Renaissance Center would face competition from the growing suburban office market.<ref name="DetroitAIA1980" /> | |||
===Redevelopment=== | |||
] | |||
The redevelopment project included the work of many different architects including Skidmore, Owings & Merrill of ], ] of Detroit, and Ghafari Associates of ] who did the renovation of the office towers. The majority of the construction operations were led by Turner Construction Company. The structural glass and steel for the Wintergarden, the entrance lobby as well as the mezzanine glass walkway were contributed by Mero. The cost of the renovation does not include the cost for reconfiguring the streets around the Renaissance Center or the cost of the park along the International Riverfront. | |||
] | |||
===Technical details and tenants=== | |||
{| class="wikitable sortable" | |||
|+Renaissance Center structures, with selected dimensions and tenants | |||
! scope="col" | Building | |||
! scope="col" | Year | |||
! scope="col" | Stories | |||
! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | Height<br />feet (m) | |||
! scope="col" data-sort-type="number" | Area<br />sq. feet (m<sup>2</sup>) | |||
! scope="col" class="unsortable" | Principal tenant(s) | |||
|- | |- | ||
! scope="row" | Central Tower | |||
| Detroit Marriott<br>at the Renaissance Center.<br>(Central hotel tower) | |||
| data-sort-value="1977" | 1977 | |||
|] | |||
| 1977<br>2004 | |||
| 73 | | 73 | ||
| 727 |
| 727 (221.5) | ||
| 1,812,000 |
| 1,812,000 (168,300) est. | ||
| | |||
| Marriott hotel | |||
* Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center | |||
* The Highlands.<ref name=":1" /> Previous tenants included The Summit Restaurant (including a revolving top floor), which was later replaced by Coach Insignia restaurant, which closed in 2017)<ref name=":0" /> | |||
|- | |- | ||
! scope="row" | Tower 100 (Southwest) | |||
| data-sort-value="1977" | 1977 | |||
| rowspan=2|] | |||
| 1977<br>2004 | |||
| 39 | | 39 | ||
| 522 |
| 522 (159) | ||
| 550,000 |
| 550,000 (51,100) | ||
| | |||
| General Motors<br>] | |||
* General Motors | |||
* ] | |||
* ] | |||
|- | |- | ||
! scope="row" | Tower 200 (Northwest) | |||
| data-sort-value="1977" | 1977 | |||
| 1977<br>2004 | |||
| 39 | | 39 | ||
| 522 |
| 522 (159) | ||
| 550,000 |
| 550,000 (51,100) | ||
| | |||
| GMAC Financial Services. | |||
* ] Headquarters | |||
* ] | |||
|- | |- | ||
! scope="row" | Tower 300 (Northeast) | |||
| data-sort-value="1977" | 1977 | |||
| rowspan=2|] | |||
| 1977<br>2004 | |||
| 39 | | 39 | ||
| 522 |
| 522 (159) | ||
| 550,000 |
| 550,000 (51,100) | ||
| | |||
| General Motors. | |||
* General Motors | |||
* The Renaissance Conference Center on level 2 contains {{convert|20000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} of meeting space.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rencenmeetings.com/ |title=Renaissance Conference Center |publisher=Rencenmeetings.com |access-date=December 5, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140208010308/http://www.rencenmeetings.com/ |archive-date=February 8, 2014}}</ref> | |||
|- | |- | ||
! scope="row" | Tower 400 (Southeast) | |||
| data-sort-value="1977" | 1977 | |||
| 1977<br>2004 | |||
| 39 | | 39 | ||
| 522 |
| 522 (159) | ||
| 550,000 |
| 550,000 (51,100) | ||
| | |||
| General Motors, OnStar, ].<ref name="Japanconsulate">"." '']''. Retrieved on February 1, 2009.</ref> | |||
* General Motors | |||
* ] | |||
* ] | |||
* ]<ref name="Japanconsulate">" {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100106091904/http://www.detroit.us.emb-japan.go.jp/en/info/map.htm |date=January 6, 2010}}." '']''. Retrieved on February 1, 2009.</ref> | |||
* ]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://consdetroit.esteri.it/en/news/dal_consolato/2021/02/trasferimento-degli-uffici-del-2/ |title=Relocation of the office of the Consulate of Italy in Detroit | publisher=Consulate of Italy in Detroit | date=25 February 2021 |access-date=4 May 2024}}</ref> | |||
* ] | |||
|- | |- | ||
| Podium |
! scope="row" | Podium beneath<br />Towers 100–400 | ||
| data-sort-value="1977" | 1977 | |||
|] | |||
| 1977<br>2004 | |||
| 5 | | 5 | ||
| 103 |
| 103 (31.39) | ||
| 660,000 |
| 660,000 (61,300) | ||
| | |||
| GM World,<br>exhibit space & retail<br>Riverfront 4 movie theatres. | |||
* GM Showroom | |||
* Food Court | |||
* Exhibit space and retail | |||
|- | |- | ||
| Tower 500 | ! scope="row" | Tower 500 | ||
(River East Center) | |||
| rowspan=2|] | |||
| data-sort-value="1981" | 1981 | |||
| 1981<br>2004 | |||
| 21 | | 21 | ||
| 339 |
| 339 (103) | ||
| 320,000 |
| 320,000 (29,700) | ||
| | |||
| ]. Includes {{convert|14845|sqft|m2|-1|abbr=on}} of retail space.<ref name=Tower500/> | |||
* ]. Includes {{convert|14845|sqft|m2|-1|abbr=on}} of retail space.<ref name="Tower500" /> | |||
|- | |- | ||
| Tower 600 |
! scope="row" | Tower 600 | ||
(River East Center) | |||
| 1981<br>2004 | |||
| data-sort-value="1981" | 1981 | |||
| 21 | | 21 | ||
| 339 |
| 339 (103) | ||
| 340,000 |
| 340,000 (31,600) | ||
| | |||
| ], ].<ref name="Canadaconsulate">"." '']''. Retrieved on February 1, 2009.</ref> Includes {{convert|35730|sqft|m2|-1|abbr=on}} of retail space.<ref name=Tower600/> | |||
* ] | |||
* ].<ref name="Canadaconsulate">" {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201165452/http://canadainternational.gc.ca/detroit/offices-bureaux/contact-contactez.aspx?lang=eng&menu_id=263&menu=L |date=February 1, 2009}}." '']''. Retrieved on February 1, 2009.</ref> Includes {{convert|35730|sqft|m2|-1|abbr=on}} of retail space.<ref name="Tower600" /> | |||
|- | |- | ||
| Wintergarden & |
! scope="row" | Wintergarden & Restaurants | ||
| rowspan=2|] | |||
| 2001 | | 2001 | ||
| 5 | | 5 | ||
| 103 |
| 103 (31.39) | ||
| 150,000 |
| 150,000 (14,000) | ||
| | |||
| Retail space. | |||
* Andiamo | |||
* Panera Bread | |||
|- | |- | ||
| Wintergarden atrium | ! scope="row" | Wintergarden atrium | ||
| 2001 | | 2001 | ||
| 5 | | 5 | ||
| 103 |
| 103 (31.39) | ||
| 40,000 |
| 40,000 (3,700) | ||
| Main entry and exhibit space |
| Main entry and exhibit space | ||
|- | |- | ||
! colspan="4" scope="row" | Renaissance Center total | |||
| Mezzanine | |||
| 5,552,000 (515,800) | |||
|] | |||
| Owner of complex: General Motors<br />Property management firm: CBRE | |||
| 1977<br>2004 | |||
| NA | |||
| NA | |||
| 30,000 / 2,800 | |||
| GM University. | |||
|- | |||
| Renaissance Center total | |||
|] | |||
| 1977<br>2004 | |||
| NA | |||
| 727 / 221.5 | |||
| 5,552,000 / 515,800 | |||
| Owner of complex: General Motors.<br>Property management firm: Hines. | |||
|} | |} | ||
In June 2015 the Ren Cen 4 Theatres theater complex announced that it was closing.<ref>Witsil, Frank. "" (). '']''. June 30, 2015. Retrieved on July 1, 2015.</ref> With the end of Ren Cen 4, the city of Detroit has one first-run theater remaining, along with three independent theaters.<ref>Felton, Ryan. "" (). July 1, 2015. Retrieved on July 9, 2015.</ref> | |||
==Architecture== | |||
The centerpiece is the 1,298-room luxury hotel, 73-story 727 foot (221.5 m). Its height is measured from its main Wintergarden entrance on Atwater Street which faces the ] where the complex measures 14 feet (4.27m) taller. Entirely owned by General Motors, the complex has {{convert|5552000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} of space.<ref name=GMRenCen>. ''GM Renaissance Center''. Retrieved on July 7, 2008.</ref><ref name=SOM/> The main Renaissance Center complex rises from a 14-] site (56,700 m²).<ref name=GMRenCen/> | |||
In July 2007 portions of Asian Village, a development of restaurants in Suite 2653 in the GM Center (200 Renaissance Center) with Asian cuisine offered, opened. The center was designed to evoke street food stalls within East and Southeast Asia.<ref>Kavanaugh, Kelli B. "." () '']''. Tuesday July 17, 2007. Retrieved on October 1, 2013.</ref> | |||
] | |||
] | |||
Famous for its ] design, the central hotel tower's ] is 188 feet (57 m).<ref name=GMRenCen/> A lighted glass walkway radiates the ] level and encircles the base of cylindrical hotel tower for ease of navigation. This ringed glass walkway is about 12 feet (3.7 m) wide and has a ] of approximately 660 ft (201 m) or about one-eighth of a mile (.2 km) around.<ref name=GMRenCen/> The ringed walkway's diameter is approximately 210 feet (64 m). It links to several other walkways in the complex. The five-story Wintergarden atrium leads into the central area which has an eight-story atrium lobby with artificial ponds, rounded ] ], and terraces. Floors 71 through 73 include the Coach Insignia, an upscale restaurant with a lounge area/observation floor. The hotel has no floor labeled 7, 8, or 13. The hotel features a major conference center with {{convert|100000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} of meeting space including a Renaissance Ballroom for up to 2,200 guests with {{convert|26000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} for events, one of the largest in the United States.<ref name=DetArch/><ref name=DetroitAIA1980/> | |||
== Notable events == | |||
] designed the five-building ] with ''interior spaces.''<ref name=DetArch/> In 1977, its central tower opened as the tallest hotel in the world.<ref name=tallesthotel/> It remains the tallest all hotel skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere.<ref name=tallesthotel/> The smaller cylinders on sides of all the towers house the ]s. The four surrounding 39-story office towers (100-400) each reach 522 feet (159 m) and have a total of {{convert|2200000|sqft|m2|-2|abbr=on}} of space.<ref name=GMRenCen/><ref name="Hines"/> Each 39 story tower has a base five-story podium structure with {{convert|165000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} for retail space for a total of {{convert|660000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}}.<ref name=Hines/> A portion of the central ] area houses ''GM World'', a show case for GM vehicles. Two 21-story towers (500-600), designed by Portman and constructed in 1981, reach 339 feet (103 m). GM gained control of Towers 500 and 600 in 2001.<ref name=Hines/> Tower 500 has {{convert|307300|sqft|m2|-1|abbr=on}} of office space and an additional {{convert|14485|sqft|m2|-1|abbr=on}} of retail space.<ref name=Tower500>.''Hines''. Retrieved on August 22, 2009.</ref> Tower 600 has {{convert|304200|sqft|m2|-1|abbr=on}} of office space and an additional {{convert|35730|sqft|m2|-1|abbr=on}} of retail space.<ref name=Tower600>.''Hines''. Retrieved on August 22, 2009.</ref> | |||
] | |||
* For the ], which was played at Comerica Park in Detroit, the center tower of the Renaissance Center was wrapped with an image of a large baseball smashing into the tower, with "4,612 FT" written below it to indicate the distance from home plate at Comerica Park.{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} | |||
Towers 100 and 200 are along Jefferson Avenue. Towers 300 and 400 are along the main Wintergarden/Atwater Street entrance facing the Riverfront. Tower 200 contains the Riverfront 4, a four-screen, first-run movie theater, on the third floor of the tower. The Renaissance Club, a private club founded by ] in 1987, is located on the 36th floor of the tower. The Renaissance Conference Center is located on the second floor of tower 300.<ref name=Hines/> | |||
* The Renaissance Center served as the media center for ] in 2006, with the Wintergarden used as a broadcast studio for ]'s pre-game programming.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2006-01-27 |title=Detroit: Super Bowl XL Host |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/detroit-super-bowl-xl-host/ |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=www.cbsnews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> The central tower was wrapped with a large logo promoting the event. | |||
In December 2001, the General Motors Wintergarden retail atrium was unveiled. Designed by ], it rises 103 feet (31.39m) tall at its highest point opening direct access to the ]. In addition, the five-story Wintergarden atrium area, added in 2001, has {{convert|150000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} devoted to retail with {{convert|40000|sqft|m2|abbr=on}} of contiguous main floor exhibit space which was used by the media during ].<ref name=Hines/> | |||
* From 2010 to 2022, the Renaissance Center hosted ], an annual ]. The event was hosted entirely at the RenCen in 2010 and 2011, and later shared with ] beginning in 2012. In 2015, the convention featured a performance by ].<ref>{{cite web |last=McGonigal |first=Mike |date=October 28, 2015 |title=Event preview: A look at some of the music on hand at Youmacon |url=https://www.metrotimes.com/music/event-preview-a-look-at-some-of-the-music-on-hand-at-youmacon-2378408 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701214513/https://www.metrotimes.com/music/event-preview-a-look-at-some-of-the-music-on-hand-at-youmacon-2378408 |archive-date=July 1, 2023 |access-date=October 8, 2024 |website=Detroit Metro Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Youmacon 2015 Information |url=https://animecons.com/events/info/5938/youmacon-2015 |accessdate=October 8, 2024 |website=AnimeCons.com}}</ref> | |||
<br clear=all> | |||
* A concert series, called ''Rockin' On the Riverfront'', was held in the riverfront plaza from 2011 to 2019. The concert series featured acts like ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], and many more. | |||
* Since 2023, the annual ] has been hosted on the streets surrounding the RenCen, with the event offices and media center located inside, and public events held in the center and adjacent parking garages.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear, May 30 - June 1, 2025, Detroit, MI - Plan Your Visit |url=https://detroitgp.com/planyourvisit/PointsOfInterest/73086 |access-date=2024-11-28 |website=detroitgp.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ramsey |first=Jared |title=2024 Detroit Grand Prix brings street racing, free entertainment downtown this weekend |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/motor/2024/05/30/2024-detroit-grand-prix-is-back-for-weekend-of-street-racing-downtown/73905418007/ |access-date=2024-11-28 |website=Detroit Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Gallery_2023 Detroit Grand Prix track construction |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/business/2022/11/04/gallery-2023-detroit-grand-prix-track-construction/8267964001/ |access-date=2024-11-28 |website=] |language=en-US}}</ref> | |||
== In popular culture == | |||
Given the RenCen's prominent position in Detroit's skyline, it appears in a myriad of media depicting the city. The following is an incomplete list of notable appearances in popular media. | |||
].]] | |||
]]] | |||
* The opening scenes of ''Thunder in the Skies'', the seventh episode of the BBC science-history documentary '']'' (1978), were visibly filmed in the then-new Renaissance Center.{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} | |||
The redevelopment project included the work of many different architects including ] of ], ] of Detroit, Gensler Detroit office, and Ghafari Associates of ] who did the renovation of the office towers. The majority of the construction operations were led by Turner Construction Company. The cost of the renovation does not include the cost for reconfiguring the streets around the Renaissance Center or the cost of the park along the International Riverfront. | |||
* The Renaissance Center is featured in the film '']'' (1988).{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} | |||
* In '']'' (1989), ]'s and ]'s characters first meet in the Renaissance Center; Morita's character is considered a suspect and chased through the hotel .{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} | |||
* A chase scene in '']'' (1990) was filmed inside the RenCen.{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} | |||
* In the opening scene of '']'' (1994), Danny DeVito's character drives down Jefferson Avenue, late for a business meeting at the Renaissance Center, when he receives the phone call that fires him from his job.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110971/|title = Renaissance Man|website = ]}}</ref> | |||
* The Renaissance Center is featured in '']'' (1997).{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} | |||
* In '']'' (1998), the main characters meet in the revolving restaurant atop the Renaissance Center.<ref name="Outofsight"> ''IMDB''</ref> | |||
* In '']'' (2005), Kevin Costner plays a DJ for ], whose studio (as depicted in the film) is housed in the Renaissance Center.{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} | |||
* '']'' (2008) features an opening scene in which ]'s character, a hitman, drives a blue ] along ], and enters the Marriott to assassinate a mafia leader.{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} | |||
* The ]'s '']'' "Roads to Nowhere" episode featured the Renaissance Center.{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} | |||
* It was used as a primary filming location for '']'' (2011).<ref>{{cite web| title=Real Steel Film Locations| url=http://www.movie-locations.com/movies/r/Real_Steel.html| publisher=The Worldwide Guide To Movie Locations| access-date=January 6, 2016}}</ref> | |||
* In a book by Adrian Humphreys titled ''The Weasel: A Double Life in the Mob'', the former driver of ] and a mob associate Marvin "The Weasel" Elkind stated that Hoffa is buried in the foundations of the Renaissance Center (2011).<ref>{{cite book |last=Humphreys |first=Adrian |edition=1st |publisher=Wiley |year=2011 |isbn=978-0470964514 |title=The Weasel: A Double Life in the Mob |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/weaseldoublelife0000hump }}</ref><ref>{{cite news| work=]| title=Is this the final resting place of Jimmy Hoffa? |first=Brad| last=Hamilton| date=December 25, 2011| access-date=July 16, 2012| url=http://www.nypost.com/p/news/national/is_this_the_final_resting_place_gefhIOE7XciKiR2EZaWtfJ}}</ref> | |||
* The series finale of ''Motor City Masters'' was filmed in the GM World exhibit in the lower level of the Renaissance Center in 2014.<ref>{{cite journal| journal=DBusiness Magazine| title=TruTV in Detroit to Select 'America's Next Great Car Designer'| first=Izzi| last=Bendall| year=2014| access-date=June 22, 2014| url=http://www.dbusiness.com/daily-news/Annual-2014/TruTV-in-Detroit-to-Select-Americas-Next-Great-Car-Designer/}}</ref> | |||
* The Renaissance Center was prominently featured in '']'' (2014).{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} | |||
* The RenCen is depicted in the album art of the ] albums '']'' (2010) and '']'' (2022).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mlive.com/entertainment/detroit/2010/05/eminem_reveals_two_recovery_al.html |title=Eminem reveals two 'Recovery' album covers, one features Renaissance Center |last=Nunez |first=Jessica |date=May 25, 2010 |website=mlive.com |language=en-US |access-date=June 5, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Curtain Call 2 by Eminem |url=https://genius.com/albums/Eminem/Curtain-call-2 |access-date=2024-11-28 |website=Genius |language=en}}</ref> His music video for "]" was filmed in Detroit, thus contains numerous shots of the city, including the building.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1608434/eminem-video-throwback-lose-yourself-2002/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171013065637/http://www.mtv.com/news/1608434/eminem-video-throwback-lose-yourself-2002/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=October 13, 2017 |title=Eminem Video Throwback: 'Lose Yourself,' 2002 |website=MTV.com |first=Jason |last=Rodriguez |date=April 2, 2009 |access-date=November 30, 2023}}</ref> | |||
* GM's ] ] was set in the RenCen. The ad depicted ] and other characters from the '']'' film series seizing control of the company, and meeting in a fictional office on an upper floor of the central tower.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Perry |first1=Tatiania |last2=Falkenberg-Hull |first2=Eileen |date=2022-02-10 |title=Austin Powers Cast Reunites for GM Super Bowl Commercial |url=https://www.newsweek.com/gm-casts-mike-myers-rob-lowe-austin-powers-themed-super-bowl-lvi-ad-1678223 |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=Newsweek |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Christopher |date=2022-02-09 |title=GM Ultium EVs Go "One Million Miles" In Super Bowl Commercial Teaser |url=https://www.motor1.com/news/566427/gm-dr-evil-super-bowl-teaser/ |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=Motor1.com |language=en}}</ref> As part of the promotion, Dr. Evil's face was displayed on the actual tower's screens, in place of the GM logo, in the weeks preceding the Super Bowl.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Alicia |date=2022-02-11 |title=Super Bowl ads 2022: Here's what some Detroit-based companies are doing |url=https://www.wxyz.com/news/super-bowl-ads-2022-heres-what-some-detroit-based-companies-are-doing |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-10 |title=Dr. Evil & 'Austin Powers' Villains Reunite To Promote EVs In GM Super Bowl Ad |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/dr-evil-austin-powers-villains-reunite-to-promote-evs-in-gm-super-bowl-ad/ |access-date=2024-11-27 |website=] |language=en-US}}</ref> | |||
==Notes== | |||
The $500 million renovation of the Renaissance Center completed in 2003 has helped improve Detroit's economy.<ref name=makeover/> Together, GM's renovation of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit Riverwalk exceeded $1 billion; the project constituted a substantial investment in downtown. More than 10,000 people (of which 6,000 are GM employees) work in the complex.<ref name=GMRenCen/> Nearly 2,000 state workers now occupy GM's former office building, the restored ], in the historic ] district.<ref name=NewCenter/> | |||
<references group="lower-alpha" /> | |||
],]] | |||
].]] | |||
The Wintergarden added to the Renaissance Center faces the Riverfront and provides panoramic views of the Windsor skyline. The complex connects offices, the hotel, retail specialty shops, restaurants, a jazz club, and a movie theater. A pedestrian-friendly glass entryway has replaced the former concrete berms along Jefferson Avenue. The redevelopment provides the ''GM World'' display of vehicles, a restored hotel, a renovated rooftop restaurant, and the addition of GM's corporate logo to crown the top of the building. Construction of the lighted glass walkway facilitates ease of navigation encircling the interior mezzanine. Hines completed redevelopment of Towers 500 and 600 for GM in 2004.<ref name=Hines/><ref name=Tower500/><ref name=Tower600/> | |||
== See also == | |||
The Riverfront Promenade was dedicated on ], ], and helped to usher in a return to recreational uses along Detroit's ]. GM played a key role in the transformation of the east riverfront with a donation of $135 million to the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy for the development of a world class riverfront promenade planned at $559 million, which included $50 million from the Kresge foundation.<ref>Detroit News Editorial (December 13, 2002). At Last, Sensible Dream for Detroit's Riverfront. ''Detroit News''.</ref> With the addition of several prominent restaurants and retailers to the complex – such as ], Seldom Blues, and a first-run movie theatre – the RenCen has started to redefine ] once again for a new generation. In 2009, the Detroit Wayne County Port Authority opened its new state of the art cruise ship dock and passenger terminal on ], adjacent to the Renaissance Center.<ref name=dock>. (June 21, 2004). ''PRNewswire''. Retrieved on July 24, 2008.</ref> Port authority bonds financed another 1,500 space parking garage adjacent to the Renaissance Center. The Omni Hotel at Riverplace faces the Riverfront as part of a restored historic area. Planned projects complementing the Renaissance Center continue along the International Riverfont which include development of luxury condominiums, retail, and entertainment usage.<ref name=Partnership>. ''City of Detroit Partnership''. Retrieved on May 16, 2009.</ref> | |||
{{Portal|Michigan|Architecture}} | |||
<br clear=all> | |||
== Location == | |||
] | |||
] and Rivard Plaza ].]] | |||
The Renaissance Center, east of ] and the city's central financial district, is set apart from the rest of ]'s skyscrapers. From the top of the Renaissance Center's Coach Insignia restaurant, patrons peer down upon the neogothic spires of the ] and city's ] skyscrapers and stadiums. The view from the top extends for {{convert|30|mi|km}} in all directions. A pedestrian walkway over Jefferson Avenue connects the complex to the Millender Center which connects to the ] Municipal Center. ], ] (home to the ]) and ] (]) are several blocks to the west. ] (]) and ] (]) are several streets northward. The American side of the ] emerges directly besides the Renaissance Center. Renaissance Center is a station on the ]. The Renaissance Center's ] ] balances the city's panoramic waterfront ], a frequent feature in photography taken from the ] city of ].<ref name=AIADetroit/> | |||
==In popular culture== | |||
In the 1990 film adaptation of the best-selling novel, ], by ], which tells the story of a prosecutor charged with the murder of his female colleague and mistress, there is a skyline view of the city of ] very early in the film which clearly shows the Renaissance Center, filmed from across the river in ]. | |||
In the 1998 ] film adaptation of '']'', the main characters meet in the revolving restaurant atop the Renaissance Center. The scene was filmed on location.<ref name="Outofsight"> ''IMDB''</ref> | |||
In 2004, the Renaissance Center was featured in the ] and ] film '']''. Costner's character plays a DJ for ] 101 FM, a real Detroit FM rock station, whose studio (in the film) is housed in the Renaissance Center. The Renaissance Center is also featured in the films '']'' and '']''. | |||
For the 2005 ] all-star game, the center tower of the Renaissance Center was wrapped with an image of a large baseball smashing into the tower, with "4612 Ft." written below it to indicate the distance from home plate at ]. For ] held in Detroit on ], ], a large ] logo was wrapped around the main tower just beneath the GM logo. The Renaissance Center hosted the major media for ]. GM offered the Wintergarden a venue for the annual Fash Bash, a fashion event and fundraiser coordinated by the ].<ref name=Foxtheatre>Hodges, Michael H. (September 8, 2003).. Michigan History, ''The Detroit News''. Retrieved on August 16, 2008.</ref> | |||
In ]'s music video for ] featured the Renaissance Center along with several other well-known structures in Detroit. The ]'s '']'' "Roads to Nowhere" episode featured the Renaissance Center. Renaissance Center replicas have become souvenir items along with other Detroit skyscrapers.<ref name=replicas>. Retrieved on July 16, 2009.</ref> | |||
==Notable Tenants== | |||
<!--Please only list firms with their own Misplaced Pages articles - The theater doesn't need its own article--> | |||
Level A Food Court | |||
*] Unit #7226<ref>"." ''Renaissance Center''. Retrieved on May 10, 2009.</ref><ref>"." '']''. Retrieved on May 13, 2009.</ref> | |||
*] #13332 (A-1042, opened August 1984)<ref>"." ''Renaissance Center''. Retrieved on May 13, 2009.</ref><ref>"." ''Excel Services, Inc.'' (Franchisee for ]) Retrieved on May 13, 2009.</ref> | |||
*]<ref>"." ''Renaissance Center''. Retrieved on May 10, 2009.</ref> | |||
*] (A203, Tower 200)<ref>"." ''Renaissance Center''. Retrieved on May 10, 2009.</ref><ref>"." '']''. Retrieved on May 13, 2009.</ref> | |||
Tower 100 | |||
* Level 1 | |||
**] | |||
**] | |||
**] | |||
**Jos. A. Bank Clothiers | |||
* Level 2 | |||
**] | |||
**] Renaissance Center Post Office | |||
Tower 200 | |||
* Level 1 | |||
**Gateway Newsstands | |||
* Level 2 | |||
** ] Store #7385 | |||
** Ren Cen 4 Theatre | |||
* Level 3 | |||
**Coach Insignia (Also in Tower 300) | |||
Tower 300 | |||
*Level 1 | |||
**Cherilynn's Gold Crown ] | |||
**] | |||
*] - Level 2 | |||
*Renaissance Conference Center | |||
*Level 3 | |||
**Coach Insignia (Also in Tower 200) | |||
Tower 400 | |||
*Seldom Blues Jazz & Supper Club | |||
*The ] is located on the 16th Floor.<ref name="Japanconsulate"/> | |||
*Dykema Gossett World Headquarters | |||
*Pure Detroit/The GM Collection Store | |||
Tower 500 | |||
*] Administrative Office | |||
Tower 600 | |||
*The ] is located in Suite 1100.<ref name="Canadaconsulate"/> | |||
Hotel | |||
* ] | |||
* ] - Level 1 | |||
GM Wintergarden | |||
*Andiamo Detroit Riverfront | |||
==See also== | |||
* ] | * ] | ||
* ] | * ] | ||
* ] | * ] | ||
* ] | |||
* ] | * ] | ||
* ] | * ] | ||
==References== | ==References== | ||
{{Reflist|33em}} | |||
===Notes=== | |||
{{reflist|2}} | |||
== |
==Further reading== | ||
{{Refbegin}} | |||
*{{Cite book|author=Fisher, Dale|title=Building Michigan: A Tribute to Michigan's Construction Industry|year=2003|publisher=Grass Lake, MI: Eyry of the Eagle Publishing|isbn=1891143247}} | |||
* {{cite journal |last= Desiderio |first= Francis |title= A Catalyst for Downtown: Detroit's Renaissance Center |journal=Michigan Historical Review |volume=35 |issue=1 |date= Spring 2009 |pages=83–112 |doi= 10.1353/mhr.2009.0001 |url= https://www.questia.com/read/1G1-206987557/a-catalyst-for-downtown-detroit-s-renaissance-center |issn= 0890-1686 |url-access=subscription }} | |||
*{{Cite book| author=Gavrilovich, Peter and Bill McGraw |title=The Detroit Almanac, 2nd edition|publisher=Detroit Free Press| year=2006|isbn=9780937247488}} | |||
*{{ |
* {{cite book |last=Fisher |first=Dale |title=Building Michigan: A Tribute to Michigan's Construction Industry |year= 2003 |location= Grass Lake, MI |publisher=Eyry of the Eagle |isbn= 1-891143-24-7}} | ||
* {{cite book |last= Poremba |first= David Lee |title= Detroit: A Motor City History |series= Making of America |location= Charleston, SC |publisher=Arcadia |year=2003 |isbn=0-7385-2435-2}} | |||
*{{Cite book | author=Meyer, Katherine Mattingly and Martin C.P. McElroy with Introduction by W. Hawkins Ferry, Hon A.I.A.| title=Detroit Architecture A.I.A. Guide Revised Edition | year= 1980| publisher= Wayne State University Press| isbn = 0-8143-1651-4}} | |||
* {{ |
* {{cite book |last=Thomas |first=June Manning |title=Redevelopment and Race: Planning a Finer City in Postwar Detroit |location=Baltimore |publisher=Johns Hopkins University Press |year=1997}} | ||
* {{ |
* {{cite book |last=Woodford |first=Arthur M. |title=This is Detroit 1701–2001 |location=Detroit |publisher=Wayne State University Press |year=2001 |isbn= 0-8143-2914-4}} | ||
{{Refend}} | |||
*{{Cite book| author= ] and Jonathan Barnett|year=1976|title=The Architect as Developer| publisher=McGraw Hill|isbn=0-0705-0536-5}} | |||
*{{Cite book | author= ] | title=American City: Detroit Architecture| publisher=Wayne State University Press| year=2005| isbn=0-8143-3270-6}} | |||
* {{Cite book| author=Woodford, Arthur M.|title=This is Detroit 1701-2001|publisher=Wayne State University Press| year=2001|isbn=0-8143-2914-4}} | |||
==External links== | ==External links== | ||
{{Commons category}} | |||
* | |||
* {{Official website}} | |||
* | |||
* at ] Library is a digitized and searchable collection of photographs that documents the construction of the Renaissance Center. | |||
{{ |
{{Tallest hotels}} | ||
{{Downtown Detroit}} | |||
{{succession box | title=Tallest Building in ] | before=] | years=1977-present | after=incumbent}} | |||
{{end box}} | |||
{{Architecture of metropolitan Detroit}} | {{Architecture of metropolitan Detroit}} | ||
{{Buildings in Michigan timeline}} | |||
{{Detroit}} | |||
{{Tallest Buildings by U.S. state|state=autocollapse}} | |||
{{Detroitmalls}} | |||
{{Detroit malls}} | |||
{{Hotels in metropolitan Detroit}} | |||
{{General Motors}} | |||
{{Authority control}} | |||
] | |||
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Latest revision as of 17:48, 20 December 2024
Skyscrapers in Detroit, Michigan"Renaissance Centre" redirects here. For the skyscraper in Erie, Pennsylvania, see Renaissance Centre (Erie, Pennsylvania).
Renaissance Center | |
---|---|
GM Renaissance Center in May 2022 | |
General information | |
Type | Hotel Commercial offices Retail |
Architectural style | Modern Brutalist |
Location | 100 Renaissance Center Detroit, Michigan 48243 United States |
Coordinates | 42°19′44″N 83°02′23″W / 42.3289°N 83.0397°W / 42.3289; -83.0397 |
Construction started | 1973 |
Completed | 1977; 48 years ago (1977) 1981; 44 years ago (1981) (towers 500–600) |
Renovated | 2004 |
Owner | General Motors |
Management | CBRE Group |
Height | |
Antenna spire | 750 ft (230 m) |
Roof | 727 ft (222 m) |
Top floor | 697 ft (212 m) |
Dimensions | |
Diameter | 188 ft (57 m) (central tower) |
Technical details | |
Floor count | 73 floors x 1 39 floors x 4 21 floors x 2 |
Floor area | 5,552,000 sq ft (515,800 m) |
Design and construction | |
Architect(s) | John Portman & Associates |
Structural engineer | Morris E. Harrison & Associates |
Main contractor | Tishman Construction |
Renovating team | |
Architect(s) | Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Gensler SmithGroup Ghafari Associates |
Main contractor | Turner Construction |
Other information | |
Public transit access | Renaissance Center DDOT 3, 9 SMART FAST Michigan, Woodward SMART 805, 851 Transit Windsor Tunnel Bus |
Website | |
gmrencen | |
References | |
Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center | |
---|---|
Hotel chain | Marriott International |
General information | |
Location | United States |
Address | 400 Renaissance Center Drive Detroit, Michigan |
Coordinates | 42°19′44″N 83°02′23″W / 42.3289°N 83.0397°W / 42.3289; -83.0397 |
Opening | 1977 |
Owner | General Motors |
Management | Marriott Hotels & Resorts |
Height | 727 ft (222 m) |
Technical details | |
Floor count | 73 |
Floor area | Meeting space: 100,000 sq ft (9,300 m) |
Other information | |
Number of rooms | 1,246 |
Number of suites | 52 |
Number of restaurants | Coach Insignia Forty-two Degrees North Volt |
Parking | Valet and self |
Website | |
www.marriott.com/dtwdt | |
The Renaissance Center, commonly known as the RenCen, is a complex of seven connected skyscrapers in downtown Detroit, Michigan, United States. Located on the Detroit International Riverfront, the RenCen is owned and used by General Motors as its world headquarters. The complex includes a 73-story Marriott hotel at its center, surrounded by four 39-story office towers, connected by a large square podium containing public spaces, a conference center, retail stores, restaurants, and a company showroom.
Developed as an urban renewal project in the 1970s, the Renaissance Center was envisioned as a "city-within-a-city," and was meant to anchor a wider redevelopment of the then-declining city of Detroit. The project was developed and funded by a consortium led by the Ford Motor Company, and John Portman served as its principal architect. The five original towers were built in the Modern architectural style and completed in 1977, with two matching towers added later in 1981.
General Motors purchased the Renaissance Center in 1996, and relocated its global headquarters to the complex. An extensive renovation, completed in 2004, significantly altered its Brutalist interior, improved access to the center from downtown, and added a new glass retail atrium and public plaza on the riverfront.
A distinctive feature of Detroit's skyline, the RenCen is widely considered to be a landmark and cultural icon of the city. With 5,552,000 square feet (515,800 m) of usable space, it is one of the world's largest commercial complexes, and the central tower has been the tallest building in Michigan since its completion in 1977. At the time of its completion, the Renaissance Center was the largest private development in the history of the United States, and the central tower was the world's tallest hotel.
In recent years, the massive center has struggled with declining occupancy, particularly stemming from increased remote work amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. General Motors has announced plans to relocate its headquarters away from the Renaissance Center in 2025, leaving the future of the complex uncertain. Redevelopment of the RenCen is currently under consideration, and could include full or partial demolition.
History
The idea was first conceived by Henry Ford II, then-chairman of the Ford Motor Company. In 1970, to bring his idea to life, Ford teamed up with other business leaders to form the Detroit Renaissance. This was a private non-profit development organization which Ford headed in order to stimulate building activity and revitalize the economy of Detroit. Henry Ford II sold the concept of the RenCen to the City and community leaders. Detroit Mayor Roman Gribbs touted the project as a complete rebuilding from bridge to bridge, referring to the area between the Ambassador Bridge, that connects Detroit to Windsor, Ontario, and the MacArthur Bridge, which connects the city with Belle Isle Park.
The Detroit Renaissance announced the first phase of construction in 1971, receiving primary financing from the Ford Motor Company. It soon became the world's largest private development with an anticipated 1971 cost of $500 million. The principal architect was John Portman, the architect behind the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel and the Peachtree Center in Atlanta, Georgia; the Embarcadero Center in San Francisco, California; and the Bonaventure Hotel in Los Angeles, California.
The city within a city arose. The first phase of Renaissance Center opened on July 1, 1976. For phase I, the facade of the first five towers was covered with 2,000,000 square feet (186,000 m) of glass, and used about 400,000 cubic yards (310,000 m) of concrete. This did not include the additional glass used for the atriums. It also cost $337 million to construct, employing 7,000 workers. The heating and cooling systems for the buildings were housed in two-story concrete berms facing Jefferson Avenue. Other phases that included residences, additional office and retail space were never constructed.
When the Renaissance Center opened, the cylindrical central tower was originally the flagship of Westin Hotels. The top three floors of the hotel hosted an upscale restaurant, The Summit, that rotated to allow a 360 degree view. The shopping center in the podium originally housed high-end boutiques, but now contains a greater complement of restaurants in the retail mix.
In 1977, managed by Western International Hotels, the central hotel tower of the Renaissance Center opened as the Detroit Plaza Hotel. It became the world's tallest all-hotel skyscraper surpassing its architectural twin, the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel in Atlanta. Its opening ended the Penobscot Building's 49-year reign as the tallest building in Michigan. The hotel was later renamed The Westin Hotel Renaissance Center Detroit. In 1986, it was surpassed in height by The Westin Stamford in Singapore. Since, the Renaissance Center's central tower has held the distinction as the tallest all-hotel skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere.
On April 15, 1977, Henry Ford II and Detroit mayor Coleman Young unveiled a plaque commemorating the private investors whose funds made the project possible. Later that evening, 650 business and society leaders attended a benefit to celebrate the Renaissance Center's formal dedication. The money raised from the $300-per-couple tickets went to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.
During the 1980 Republican National Convention, hosted at nearby Joe Louis Arena, presidential nominee Ronald Reagan and former President Gerald Ford both stayed at the Renaissance Center.
In 1987, the elevated Detroit People Mover transit line began operation with a stop at the Renaissance Center.
General Motors ownership
In 1996, General Motors purchased the complex and moved its world headquarters from what is now the historic Cadillac Place state office complex in the New Center district, to the Renaissance Center, in downtown Detroit. Meanwhile, Ford Motor Company maintained offices in one of the towers in the center. Before the acquisition, Sibley's Shoes had its headquarters in the center.
In December 2001, General Motors unveiled the Wintergarden retail atrium. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, it rises 103 feet (31 m) tall at its highest point opening direct access to the International Riverfront. In addition, the atrium contains 150,000 square feet (14,000 m) of retail space and 40,000 square feet (3,700 m) of contiguous main floor exhibit space which was used by the media during Super Bowl XL.
The $500 million renovation of the Renaissance Center completed in 2003 has helped improve Detroit's economy. Together, GM's renovation of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit Riverwalk exceeded $1 billion; the project constituted a substantial investment in downtown. More than 10,000 people (of whom 6,000 are GM employees) work in the complex. Nearly 2,000 state workers now occupy GM's former office building, the restored Cadillac Place, in the historic New Center district.
Architects' initial design for the Renaissance Center focused on creating secure interior spaces, while its design later expanded and improved to connect with the exterior spaces and waterfront through a reconfigured interior, open glass entryways, and a winter garden. By 2004, GM completed an extensive $500 million renovation of the Renaissance Center. This included a $100 million makeover for the hotel. Among GM's first actions was to remove the concrete berms facing Jefferson Avenue. The renovation includes a lighted glass walkway which encircles the interior mezzanine for ease of navigation, while the addition of the winter garden provides riverfront access and a view of Canada. A covered skyway over Jefferson Avenue connects to the Millender Center, Courtyard by Marriott - Downtown Detroit, and Coleman A. Young Municipal Center.
The Wintergarden added to the Renaissance Center faces the Riverfront and provides panoramic views of the Windsor skyline. The complex connects offices, the hotel, retail specialty shops, restaurants, a jazz club, and a movie theater. The theater has since closed and been converted to offices. A pedestrian-friendly glass entryway has replaced the former concrete berms along Jefferson Avenue. The redevelopment provides the GM World display of vehicles, a restored hotel, a renovated rooftop restaurant, and the addition of GM's corporate logo to crown the top of the building. Construction of the lighted glass walkway facilitates ease of navigation encircling the interior mezzanine. Hines completed redevelopment of Towers 500 and 600 for GM in 2004.
The Riverfront Promenade was dedicated on December 17, 2004, and helped to usher in a return to recreational uses along Detroit's International Riverfront. GM played a key role in the transformation of the east riverfront with a donation of $135 million to the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy for the development of a world class riverfront promenade planned at $559 million, which included $50 million from the Kresge foundation. In 2011, the Detroit Wayne County Port Authority opened its new state of the art cruise ship dock and passenger terminal on Hart Plaza, adjacent to the Renaissance Center. Port authority bonds financed another 1,500 space parking garage adjacent to the Renaissance Center. Further upriver, the Roberts Riverwalk Hotel faces the east riverfront. In addition to the gradual continuation of the riverfront promenade, other planned projects complementing the Renaissance Center continue along the International Riverfont which include development of luxury condominiums, a cruise ship passenger terminal, retail, and entertainment venues.
In 2011, the Renaissance Center added colored LED lighting on the top of its towers (Towers 500 and 600 utilize traditional blue floodlights to illuminate their top floors). General Motors added a large illuminated LED corporate logo which also displays GM divisions. The animated logo and illuminated LED color bands around the towers can be used to support special events and may be seen from Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers. The renovation of TCF Center convention and exhibit facility incorporates similar blue neon lighting along riverfront promenade.
In July 2010, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan announced plans to lease 435,245 square feet (40,435.6 m) of Tower 500 and Tower 600 and relocate 3,000 of its employees from its building in Southfield, Michigan.
In January 2015, General Motors announced its intent to renovate much of the complex to make it more inviting as a destination for visitors to Detroit. That July, the complex was re-branded as "The GMRENCEN, and" Its logo was modernized and "Reflecting a New Detroit" was introduced as the new tagline. A photo-journalistic advertising campaign launched to "shine a spotlight on the people in Detroit who make remarkable contributions" to the city.
The Renaissance Center is owned by General Motors. The hotel in the central tower is now managed by the Marriott hotel chain and is called the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center. The 1,298-room hotel is one of the largest operated by Marriott. The rooftop restaurant (which previously had revolved) received a $10 million renovation and was operated by The Epicurean Groups's Coach Insignia (closed in 2017). It served Coach wines, a product of the Fisher family whose legacy includes Fisher Body, a name which is part of GM history.
The Renaissance Center's renovation provides for the prospect of continued development and restorations throughout the city. Architectural critics have touted the city's architecture as among North America's finest.
In its first year of operation it generated over $1 billion in economic growth for the downtown. Detroit Renaissance continued to interact with the city, by contributing to a variety of projects within the downtown area in the ensuing decades.
General Motors exit and redevelopment
On April 15, 2024, GM announced its intention to move its headquarters from the Renaissance Center to the under-construction Hudson's Detroit in 2025. GM publicly committed to redeveloping the RenCen, but their planned exit sparked public speculation that it could be demolished, a possibility which CEO Mary Barra declined to rule out. GM retained Bedrock Detroit, the real estate firm developing Hudson's Detroit, to consult on the redevelopment.
GM and Bedrock revealed a conceptual plan for the RenCen's redevelopment in November 2024. The plan calls for the demolition of two of the RenCen's office towers, 300 and 400, and most of the existing public and retail spaces at its base. Under this plan, one of the remaining office towers would be converted to rental apartments; the central tower would remain a hotel, but its upper floors would also be converted to rental apartments.
The two companies stated that they planned to provide the majority of the $1.6 billion required for the proposed redevelopment, but they expect $250 million in subsidies from the state of Michigan, and $100 million in tax-increment financing from the Detroit Downtown Development Authority. The companies' demand for taxpayer funding of the project was met with public opposition by many state lawmakers, including Matt Hall, the speaker-elect of the Michigan House of Representatives. In response, General Motors later stated that if lawmakers did not provide taxpayer funding, they would demolish the entire RenCen at their own expense, a proposal described by the Detroit Free Press as "likely... the largest voluntary skyscraper demolition in world history." Opponents of the demolition likened the proposal to "extortion".
Location
The Renaissance Center is a riverfront property located along the Detroit River. Approximately one-mile north of the center are Comerica Park and Ford Field, the respective venues for the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions. The US portal of the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel emerges adjacent to the western boundary of the Renaissance Center. The Renaissance Center is also a station on the Detroit People Mover. Additionally a pedestrian skyway, over Jefferson Avenue, connects the complex to the Millender Center. Several blocks to the west of the Renaissance Center, along Jefferson Avenue, there are the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, Hart Plaza, Huntington Place (formerly Cobo Center, home to events such as the North American International Auto Show and Youmacon) and the Joe Louis Arena (former home of the Detroit Red Wings). The University of Detroit Mercy School of Law is located just across Jefferson Avenue. The Renaissance Center's modernist architecture balances the city's panoramic waterfront skyline, a frequent feature in photography taken from Windsor, Ontario, across the river. From the top of Renaissance Center's previous Coach Insignia restaurant (closed in 2017), patrons were able to peer down upon the neogothic spires of the One Detroit Center and the city's Financial District skyscrapers and stadiums. The view from the top extended for 30 miles (48 km) in all directions.
The Renaissance Center grounds constitute ZIP code 48243.
Architecture
The centerpiece is the 73-story 727-foot (221.5 m) luxury hotel with 1,246 rooms and 52 suites (1298 total guest rooms). Its height is measured from its main Wintergarden entrance on Atwater Street which faces the International Riverfront where the complex measures 14 feet (4.3 m) taller. Entirely owned by General Motors, the complex has 5,552,000 square feet (515,800 m) of space. The main Renaissance Center complex rises from a 14-acre (5.7 ha) site. The complex is designed in the modern architectural style with glass as a main material.
Famous for its cylindrical design, the central hotel tower's diameter is 188 feet (57 m). A lighted glass walkway radiates the mezzanine level and encircles the base of cylindrical hotel tower for ease of navigation. This ringed glass walkway is about 12 feet (3.7 m) wide and has a circumference of approximately 660 feet (200 m) or about one-eighth of a mile around. The ringed walkway's diameter is approximately 210 feet (64 m). It links to several other walkways in the complex. The five-story Wintergarden atrium leads into the central area which has an eight-story atrium lobby with rounded concrete balconies and terraces. The Highlands is located on Floors 71 through 73, which includes a restaurant, scotch bar, and special events space. The hotel has no floors labeled 7, 8, or 13. The hotel features a major conference center with 100,000 square feet (9,300 m) of meeting space including a Renaissance Ballroom for up to 2,200 guests with 26,000 square feet (2,400 m) for events, one of the largest in the United States.
John Portman designed the five-building rosette with interior spaces. In 1977, its central tower opened as the tallest hotel in the world. It remains the tallest all hotel skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere. The smaller cylinders on sides of all the towers house the elevators. The four surrounding 39-story office towers (100–400) each reach 522 feet (159 m) and have a total of 2,200,000 square feet (204,400 m) of space. Each 39-story tower has a base five-story podium structure with 165,000 square feet (15,300 m) for retail space for a total of 660,000 square feet (61,000 m). A portion of the central atrium area houses GM World, a showcase for GM vehicles. Two 21-story towers (500–600), designed by Portman and constructed in 1981, reach 339 feet (103 m). GM gained control of Towers 500 and 600 in 2001. Tower 500 has 307,300 square feet (28,550 m) of office space and an additional 14,485 square feet (1,350 m) of retail space. Tower 600 has 304,200 square feet (28,260 m) of office space and an additional 35,730 square feet (3,320 m) of retail space.
Towers 100 and 200 front Jefferson Avenue. Towers 300 and 400 are on the main Wintergarden/Atwater Street entrance facing the Riverfront. The GM Renaissance Conference Center is located on the second floor of tower 300.
The design is consistent with the themes of Brutalist architecture, especially in the heavy massing of concrete on the lower floors, but the 2001 renovation has softened those features.
The "city within a city" concept was duplicated in the suburb of Southfield, when the Southfield Town Center office complex - with five inter-connected golden skyscrapers and an overall area of 2,200,000 square feet (200,000 m) - was constructed from 1975 to 1989. In the ensuing years, the Renaissance Center would face competition from the growing suburban office market.
Redevelopment
The redevelopment project included the work of many different architects including Skidmore, Owings & Merrill of Chicago, SmithGroup of Detroit, and Ghafari Associates of Dearborn who did the renovation of the office towers. The majority of the construction operations were led by Turner Construction Company. The structural glass and steel for the Wintergarden, the entrance lobby as well as the mezzanine glass walkway were contributed by Mero. The cost of the renovation does not include the cost for reconfiguring the streets around the Renaissance Center or the cost of the park along the International Riverfront.
Technical details and tenants
Building | Year | Stories | Height feet (m) |
Area sq. feet (m) |
Principal tenant(s) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Central Tower | 1977 | 73 | 727 (221.5) | 1,812,000 (168,300) est. |
|
Tower 100 (Southwest) | 1977 | 39 | 522 (159) | 550,000 (51,100) |
|
Tower 200 (Northwest) | 1977 | 39 | 522 (159) | 550,000 (51,100) |
|
Tower 300 (Northeast) | 1977 | 39 | 522 (159) | 550,000 (51,100) |
|
Tower 400 (Southeast) | 1977 | 39 | 522 (159) | 550,000 (51,100) | |
Podium beneath Towers 100–400 |
1977 | 5 | 103 (31.39) | 660,000 (61,300) |
|
Tower 500
(River East Center) |
1981 | 21 | 339 (103) | 320,000 (29,700) |
|
Tower 600
(River East Center) |
1981 | 21 | 339 (103) | 340,000 (31,600) |
|
Wintergarden & Restaurants | 2001 | 5 | 103 (31.39) | 150,000 (14,000) |
|
Wintergarden atrium | 2001 | 5 | 103 (31.39) | 40,000 (3,700) | Main entry and exhibit space |
Renaissance Center total | 5,552,000 (515,800) | Owner of complex: General Motors Property management firm: CBRE |
In June 2015 the Ren Cen 4 Theatres theater complex announced that it was closing. With the end of Ren Cen 4, the city of Detroit has one first-run theater remaining, along with three independent theaters.
In July 2007 portions of Asian Village, a development of restaurants in Suite 2653 in the GM Center (200 Renaissance Center) with Asian cuisine offered, opened. The center was designed to evoke street food stalls within East and Southeast Asia.
Notable events
- For the 2005 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, which was played at Comerica Park in Detroit, the center tower of the Renaissance Center was wrapped with an image of a large baseball smashing into the tower, with "4,612 FT" written below it to indicate the distance from home plate at Comerica Park.
- The Renaissance Center served as the media center for Super Bowl XL in 2006, with the Wintergarden used as a broadcast studio for ESPN's pre-game programming. The central tower was wrapped with a large logo promoting the event.
- From 2010 to 2022, the Renaissance Center hosted Youmacon, an annual anime convention. The event was hosted entirely at the RenCen in 2010 and 2011, and later shared with Cobo Center beginning in 2012. In 2015, the convention featured a performance by Crush 40.
- A concert series, called Rockin' On the Riverfront, was held in the riverfront plaza from 2011 to 2019. The concert series featured acts like Pat Benatar, Rick Derringer, The Guess Who, Blue Öyster Cult, Randy Bachman, Foreigner, Dave Mason, Starship, REO Speedwagon, Ace Frehley, Eddie Money, Loverboy, 38 Special, Steppenwolf, Vince Neil, Jon Anderson, and many more.
- Since 2023, the annual Detroit Grand Prix has been hosted on the streets surrounding the RenCen, with the event offices and media center located inside, and public events held in the center and adjacent parking garages.
In popular culture
Given the RenCen's prominent position in Detroit's skyline, it appears in a myriad of media depicting the city. The following is an incomplete list of notable appearances in popular media.
- The opening scenes of Thunder in the Skies, the seventh episode of the BBC science-history documentary Connections (1978), were visibly filmed in the then-new Renaissance Center.
- The Renaissance Center is featured in the film Action Jackson (1988).
- In Collision Course (1989), Pat Morita's and Jay Leno's characters first meet in the Renaissance Center; Morita's character is considered a suspect and chased through the hotel .
- A chase scene in Bird on a Wire (1990) was filmed inside the RenCen.
- In the opening scene of Renaissance Man (1994), Danny DeVito's character drives down Jefferson Avenue, late for a business meeting at the Renaissance Center, when he receives the phone call that fires him from his job.
- The Renaissance Center is featured in Grosse Pointe Blank (1997).
- In Out of Sight (1998), the main characters meet in the revolving restaurant atop the Renaissance Center.
- In The Upside of Anger (2005), Kevin Costner plays a DJ for WRIF, whose studio (as depicted in the film) is housed in the Renaissance Center.
- Killshot (2008) features an opening scene in which Mickey Rourke's character, a hitman, drives a blue Cadillac along Jefferson Avenue, and enters the Marriott to assassinate a mafia leader.
- The History Channel's Life After People: The Series "Roads to Nowhere" episode featured the Renaissance Center.
- It was used as a primary filming location for Real Steel (2011).
- In a book by Adrian Humphreys titled The Weasel: A Double Life in the Mob, the former driver of Jimmy Hoffa and a mob associate Marvin "The Weasel" Elkind stated that Hoffa is buried in the foundations of the Renaissance Center (2011).
- The series finale of Motor City Masters was filmed in the GM World exhibit in the lower level of the Renaissance Center in 2014.
- The Renaissance Center was prominently featured in Need for Speed (2014).
- The RenCen is depicted in the album art of the Eminem albums Recovery (2010) and Curtain Call 2 (2022). His music video for "Lose Yourself" was filmed in Detroit, thus contains numerous shots of the city, including the building.
- GM's 2022 Super Bowl commercial was set in the RenCen. The ad depicted Dr. Evil and other characters from the Austin Powers film series seizing control of the company, and meeting in a fictional office on an upper floor of the central tower. As part of the promotion, Dr. Evil's face was displayed on the actual tower's screens, in place of the GM logo, in the weeks preceding the Super Bowl.
Notes
- Despite the name, the hotel is not affiliated with the Renaissance Hotels chain, also owned by Marriott.
See also
- Architecture of metropolitan Detroit
- List of tallest buildings in Detroit
- List of tallest buildings in Michigan
- List of tallest buildings in the United States
- List of largest buildings in the world
References
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Further reading
- Desiderio, Francis (Spring 2009). "A Catalyst for Downtown: Detroit's Renaissance Center". Michigan Historical Review. 35 (1): 83–112. doi:10.1353/mhr.2009.0001. ISSN 0890-1686.
- Fisher, Dale (2003). Building Michigan: A Tribute to Michigan's Construction Industry. Grass Lake, MI: Eyry of the Eagle. ISBN 1-891143-24-7.
- Poremba, David Lee (2003). Detroit: A Motor City History. Making of America. Charleston, SC: Arcadia. ISBN 0-7385-2435-2.
- Thomas, June Manning (1997). Redevelopment and Race: Planning a Finer City in Postwar Detroit. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press.
- Woodford, Arthur M. (2001). This is Detroit 1701–2001. Detroit: Wayne State University Press. ISBN 0-8143-2914-4.
External links
- Official website
- Virtual visit of the Renaissance Center
- Building the Detroit Renaissance Center at Wayne State University Library is a digitized and searchable collection of photographs that documents the construction of the Renaissance Center.
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Neighborhood Historic Districts |
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See also: List of tallest buildings in Detroit |
Timeline of the tallest buildings in Michigan | |
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Tallest buildings by U.S. state or territory | |
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AL RSA Battle House Tower AK Conoco-Phillips Building AZ Chase Tower AR Simmons Tower CA Wilshire Grand Center CO Republic Plaza CT City Place I DE 1201 North Market Street FL Panorama Tower GA Bank of America Plaza HI The Central Ala Moana ID Eighth and Main IL Willis Tower IN Salesforce Tower IA 801 Grand/Principal Building KS Epic Center KY 400 West Market LA Hancock Whitney Center ME Saint Joseph's Church MD Transamerica Tower MA John Hancock Tower MI Renaissance Center MN IDS Center MS Beau Rivage Hotel Casino MO One Kansas City Place MT First Interstate Center NE First National Bank Tower NV Fontainebleau Las Vegas NH Manchester City Hall Plaza NJ 99 Hudson Street NM Albuquerque Plaza NY One World Trade Center NC Bank of America Corporate Center ND North Dakota State Capitol OH Key Tower OK Devon Energy Center OR Wells Fargo Center PA Comcast Technology Center RI Industrial National Bank Building SC Capitol Center SD CenturyLink Tower TN AT&T Building TX JPMorgan Chase Tower UT Wells Fargo Center VT Decker Towers VA Westin Virginia Beach Town Center WA Columbia Center WV West Virginia State Capitol WI U.S. Bank Center WY Wyoming Financial Center Federal districts: DC Basilica of the Immaculate ConceptionTerritories: AS Tafuna Telecommunications Building GU Oceana Tower 2 MP Grand Mariana Casino & Hotel Resort PR Dos Marinas I, II VI F.R. & M.S. Marriott Beach Resort |
Shopping malls and districts in metropolitan Detroit | ||
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Enclosed shopping malls | ||
Open-air centers | ||
Street-side shopping districts |
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Strip and power centers | ||
Defunct |
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Cancelled | ||
See also: Tourism in metropolitan Detroit |
Hotels in metropolitan Detroit | ||
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Conference and resort hotels | ||
Historic Inns and boutique hotels |
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Beyond the metro region |
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See also: Tourism in metropolitan Detroit |
General Motors | ||||||||
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Divisions and subsidiaries |
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Shareholdings |
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Products and technologies |
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Former divisions, joint ventures and subsidiaries |
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Facilities | ||||||||
People |
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Sponsorship |
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Related topics | ||||||||
- Skyscraper office buildings in Detroit
- Downtown Detroit
- Shopping malls in Wayne County, Michigan
- Skyscraper hotels in Detroit
- Twin towers
- Hotel buildings completed in 1977
- Office buildings completed in 1977
- Shopping malls established in 1977
- Buildings and structures with revolving restaurants
- General Motors facilities
- Headquarters in the United States
- Marriott hotels
- Economy of Detroit
- 1977 establishments in Michigan
- 1970s architecture in the United States
- Skidmore, Owings & Merrill buildings
- John C. Portman Jr. buildings