What's the New Skyscraper Being Built in Detroit? Hudson's Detroit to Open This Year

Feb 4

Detroit’s skyline is evolving, and the most significant addition in recent years is the Hudson’s Detroit development. Located on the site of the former J.L. Hudson’s flagship department store, this $1.4 billion project is set to become the second-tallest building in Michigan when it opens in 2024. Developed by Bedrock Detroit and designed by SHoP Architects in collaboration with Hamilton Anderson Associates, the new Hudson’s site is a testament to the city’s ongoing revitalization. Here’s everything you need to know about the skyscraper reshaping downtown Detroit.

Hudson’s Detroit: A Landmark Development

The Hudson’s Detroit project consists of two buildings:

A 49-story skyscraper, standing 208.7 meters (685 feet) tall, making it the second tallest structure in Detroit, after the Renaissance Center.
A 14-story mid-rise, measuring 70.7 meters (232 feet), which will house office, retail, and event space.
A 700-space underground parking garage, connecting the two structures.

A Historic Location with a Modern Vision

The Legacy of Hudson’s Department Store

The Hudson’s site carries deep historical significance for Detroiters. The original J.L. Hudson’s department store, completed in 1946, was the tallest department store in the world, standing at 440 feet (134 meters) and occupying an entire city block. At its peak, Hudson’s was a shopping destination, second in size only to Macy’s Herald Square in New York. However, after closing in 1983, the structure stood vacant for over a decade before being imploded in 1998—the tallest building ever demolished by controlled implosion.

For years, the site remained an empty lot, save for an underground parking garage constructed in 2001. It wasn’t until 2017 that construction officially began on the new Hudson’s Detroit development, fulfilling a long-standing vision to bring new life to this historic location.

Hudson’s Detroit: A Multi-Use Destination

The new skyscraper isn’t just about height; it’s about purpose. The mixed-use development is designed to provide a luxury experience, attracting residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Luxury Residences & Hotel

Hudson’s Detroit will include 97 high-end condominiums and an ultra-luxury 210-room EDITION Hotel, offering a five-star experience. With world-class amenities, these residences are expected to be among the most exclusive in the city.

Retail and Dining

The project will include premium retail spaces, with flagship stores expected to set up shop at the base of the skyscraper. Additionally, a rooftop dining space and high-end restaurant will be housed on the upper floors, offering panoramic views of Detroit.

Office Space: The New Home of General Motors

A major milestone for Hudson’s Detroit came in April 2024 when General Motors (GM) announced it would relocate its global headquarters from the Renaissance Center to Hudson’s Detroit in 2025. GM initially leased two floors of the mid-rise building but later expanded its lease to occupy floors 8 through 11, with the top floor featuring a corporate restaurant and executive spaces.

Cultural & Public Spaces

A significant portion of the development is dedicated to public engagement. The mid-rise will include an exhibition hall and event spaces, hosting everything from corporate events to cultural showcases. The design also integrates green spaces and pedestrian-friendly pathways, ensuring that the development is well-connected to the surrounding downtown area.

Hudson’s Detroit Timeline: From Groundbreaking to Completion

Key Milestones

December 2017: Construction begins with demolition of the underground parking garage.
March 2020: COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halts construction for 45 days.
December 2020: The structure rises above ground for the first time.
April 10, 2024: The skyscraper is topped out, reaching its full height of 685 feet.
April 12, 2024: The project is officially named Hudson’s Detroit.
2024: The development is expected to reach substantial completion by the end of the year.
2025: General Motors relocates its global headquarters to the mid-rise building.
2027: Final completion of luxury residences and the EDITION Hotel.

Design Evolution and Challenges

From 912 Feet to 685 Feet

Originally, Hudson’s Detroit was planned to be 912 feet tall, making it the tallest building in Michigan. However, the design was scaled down to 685 feet due to economic factors and changing market demands. The original plan also included an observation deck, which was removed in later iterations.

Construction Delays and Cost Adjustments

Like many large-scale projects, the Hudson’s Detroit development faced delays and cost overruns. Initially scheduled for completion in 2022, construction setbacks—including the pandemic and supply chain issues—pushed the timeline back to 2024.

Architectural Features

Designed by SHoP Architects, the tower features a sleek, stepped design, with vertical terracotta fins providing an elegant, modern aesthetic. The mid-rise and skyscraper are visually distinct, yet seamlessly connected through their complementary designs.

Economic and Cultural Impact on Detroit

Job Creation and Investment

The $1.4 billion project has created thousands of construction jobs and is expected to support long-term employment in hospitality, retail, and corporate sectors.

Boosting Downtown Detroit’s Revival

Hudson’s Detroit joins other Bedrock-led projects, including the restoration of the Book Tower and the expansion of Campus Martius Park, solidifying downtown Detroit’s resurgence.

A New Landmark for the Motor City

For decades, the Hudson’s site symbolized Detroit’s decline, but today, it represents the city’s comeback story. As one of the most ambitious developments in Detroit’s modern history, Hudson’s Detroit will redefine the city’s skyline and serve as a beacon of economic growth for years to come.

Final Thoughts: What Hudson’s Detroit Means for the Future

The completion of Hudson’s Detroit in 2024 marks a turning point for the city. This mixed-use development brings new residential, commercial, and cultural spaces to the heart of downtown. With General Motors relocating its headquarters and luxury hospitality brands entering the market, Detroit is positioning itself as a destination for business, tourism, and urban living.

Whether you’re a Detroit local, investor, or visitor, Hudson’s Detroit is a project to watch. As construction nears completion, anticipation is building for the grand opening of Detroit’s newest skyscraper.

For more updates on Hudson’s Detroit, visit the official website.

Andrew Petrov