"The Tower," a 685-foot (207-meter) skyscraper, has reached its full height in Detroit's Hudson's Detroit development, becoming the city's second-tallest building. Designed by New York's SHoP Architects, the building features a sleek glass facade with vertical terracotta fins and a pyramid-shaped front. It will house residences and a hotel, with a nearby structure for retail and offices. Local developer Bedrock funded the project as part of efforts to revitalise Detroit's downtown, adding an iconic element to the city skyline.
The Detroit skyline has a new addition as a striking 685-foot (207 metre) skyscraper has reached its full height at the Hudson's Detroit development. Designed by New York-based SHoP Architects, the tower stands as the second tallest building in the city and is set to become an iconic part of Detroit's landscape.
The Tower, a central component of the larger Hudson's Detroit project, features a distinct design with thin, flat sections stacked in a pyramid shape on the front. The building's unified glass facade is complemented by vertical terracotta fins, lending it a modern yet timeless appearance.
When completed, the skyscraper will house residences and a hotel, while a neighbouring structure will accommodate retail and office spaces. An underground parking garage connects the skyscraper with the boxy, 14-story building nearby, creating a seamless transition between the two structures.
Construction on the project began in 2017 with a different design from SHoP Architects, initially featuring a chimney-stack look. The firm released updated designs the following year, proposing a height of over 900 feet (274 metres). The final design and height were later scaled back to the current 685 feet.
SHoP Architects principal Bill Sharples said that an important part of the tower's design was separating it from the rest of the Hudson's Detroit project. This allows people to access and enjoy all sides of the building, showcasing its slender shape. It also led to the creation of a new public space in the centre of the site.
The project is named after the historic Hudson's Department Store, which once occupied the site. The department store, completed in 1946, was known for being the world's tallest at the time and was demolished in 1998 using the largest controlled implosion ever attempted.
Bedrock founder Dan Gilbert said Detroit's skilled workers have been key to the success of the Hudson's Detroit project. He is proud of their work, which will make this development a long-lasting part of the city's skyline and will benefit both residents and visitors for many years
The skyscraper is part of ongoing development in Detroit, a city that faced decline starting in the 1960s and lost over half its population by 2013, when it declared bankruptcy.
Bedrock has played a key role in revitalising the city, including restoring historic buildings like the Book Tower. Senior VP James Witherspoon said Detroit's future is based on its strong history of design and innovation.
The completion of the tower is part of ongoing efforts to solidify Detroit's reputation as a premier city and establish the Hudson's project as a popular destination for locals, businesses, travellers, and future residents. This marks a new chapter in Detroit's ongoing resurgence, following decades of decline and challenges.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
