Back in the day, if someone developed a new store, they simply built a store.
Take the former flagship Hudson’s department store, the historic Detroit landmark that took root in the late 1800s. Although the store, which covered more than 2 million square feet, had a dining room, it was still primarily a very large department store.
Compare that to the new Hudson’s Detroit, a $1.5 billion project in downtown Detroit that boasts two towers — a 12-story mid-rise building an a 49-story skyscraper. It is a mixed-use development that offers modern office and retail space, fine dining facilities, a hotel, and 96 luxury condominiums.
Jonathan Mueller, senior vice president of development at Bedrock Detroit, which developed the project, said multiuse projects combine the best elements of city life in one location.
“Mixed-use developments reimagine urban centers from primarily office-centric districts to places that offer living, dining, entertainment and more, creating destination experiences,” Mueller explained. “Perhaps most common, the addition of retail, food and beverage, residential, and hospitality options invite the public to engage with properties, increasing foot traffic and extending activity beyond traditional business hours.”
He said one aspect of the development will also include a public park.
“At Hudson’s Detroit, we take this one step further through Nick Gilbert Way, a pedestrian-forward plaza and community space located in between the Hudson’s Block Building and Tower that hosts year-round activations and programming,” Mueller said.
One of the key benefits of mixed-use projects is providing residents with live-work-play opportunities. Walkability has become a keyword for people looking for a community where shopping, living, entertainment and dining are available within walking distance.
“If you are living in an urban area, proximity to local stores and services, restaurants, parks, and entertainment is a significant driving factor,” Mueller said.
Such mixed-use projects — on a smaller basis — are found in rural and urban communities throughout Michigan, from Marquette in the Upper Peninsula and Cheboygan in the northern Lower Peninsula to Grand Rapids and Flint.
Many of the mixed-use developments involve restoration and reuse of existing, often blighted, buildings and property.
In January, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced several such projects using the Revitalization and Placemaking program, creating housing and commercial space in Cheboygan, Ionia, Marshall, Morenci and Port Sanilac.
“We look forward to seeing how these projects uplift the downtowns of these various communities throughout the state, generating new commercial activity, creating residential density and giving vacant property a new life,” said Michele Wildman, senior vice president of community planning and development readiness for the Michigan Economic Development Corp.
At a Glance
- The Hudson’s Block Building is approximately 600,000 square feet.
- Office space includes General Motors, JPMorgan Chase, Accenture, Ven Johnson Law and more.
- Ground-floor retail includes Alo Yoga and Tecovas.
- Event space is at The Department at Hudson’s.
- A rooftop bar is at Pine Hall.
- Hudson’s Tower is approximately 700,000 square feet.
- The Detroit EDTION hotel and The Residences at the Detroit EDITION are included in the tower.
- Underground parking totals 200,000 square feet.
