Tall & Urban News

The landmark Renaissance Center, GM's headquarters since 1996, may face demolition, according to sources close to current discussions. One or two of the seven towers that range from 21 to 70 floors and are part of the complex might be spared to preserve Detroit's skyline, but the rest could be replaced with new construction. The outdated structure, with its glass exterior and inefficient interior corridors, is unsuitable for modern housing or offices, a current trend in other cities in converting historic structures, and is also currently energy-wasteful and would demand an extensive overhaul. The final decision is pending, with ongoing talks involving GM, architectural firms, and real estate company Bedrock.

Bedrock, which has an agreement to buy GM's share of the Renaissance Center, and GM have asked Michigan's government to contribute several $100 million for demolition, renovation, and new construction. The state's response is currently unknown.

GM CEO Mary Barra did not deny demolition considerations in May 2024. Discussions about GM's exit from the Center began in early summer 2022, with alternatives including conversion to residential space, offices, or a combination of both. GM plans to move its headquarters to the top two floors of Hudson’s Detroit, owned by Bedrock, with additional space leased for vehicle showrooms.

The shift to remote work has reduced the need for large office spaces, influencing GM's decision to lease more of Hudson’s. The future of the Renaissance Center remains uncertain as stakeholders weigh the potential benefits of redevelopment against preserving a piece of Detroit's architectural heritage.

Learn more about this story at GM Authority.