Renaissance Center, Modern skyscraper complex in Downtown Detroit, United States
The Renaissance Center consists of seven interconnected glass towers rising along the Detroit River waterfront and dominating the downtown skyline. The tallest tower reaches 221 meters (726 feet) and houses a hotel, while the surrounding towers contain office space and public areas.
Henry Ford II conceived the project after the 1967 rebellion and formed the Detroit Renaissance group in 1970; construction was announced in 1971 with John Portman as architect. The first phase opened on July 1, 1976, and the complex was formally dedicated on April 15, 1977. General Motors bought it in 1996 and renovated it in the early 2000s.
The complex takes its name from the Detroit Renaissance initiative and symbolizes the city's renewal efforts in the late 20th century. Visitors today see the General Motors headquarters with public areas, shops and restaurants that connect the place as both a workplace and a destination.
The complex is accessible via the Detroit People Mover system and several entrances from downtown, with the main lobby providing orientation. Visitors can explore public areas, restaurants and shops, while office sections are restricted to employees.
The central tower's top three floors once held a revolving restaurant, The Summit, giving diners a 360-degree view. The complex's five towers carry the addresses 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500, with the tallest central tower numbered 500.
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