Now what’s going to happen to the office buildings in Renaissance Center?
Perhaps they can convert some of them to residential. But who wants to live in that area? Sure, it’s got great views of the river and Windsor, but it’s a bit removed from the rest of downtown and is a bit desolate as a result.
A few of them might be demolished, but the cylindrical hotel will surely remain. The partial demolition of the complex will be a big change for Detroit, as the Ren Center with all its office buildings surrounding the hotel is a classic view of the city and has been featured on an Eminem album and Fedde le Grand’s song as well.
Anyway, I have a nagging feeling this whole site will be converted to yet another Detroit casino.
Renaissance center was built as a fortress against the rest of the city. I think it will continue to appeal to some.
Renaissance Center is very outdated in the context of modern thinking about cities. Young people these days do not want to work or live in a fortress. There is virtually no demand for this type of office space - if a company wants an urban location they will pick something in the heart of the action, such as the Hudson’s Site tower, and if they want a secluded location they will locate in a suburb such as Troy or Rochester Hills. I really don’t see how Renaissance Center can survive in its current form.
That Gordie Howe Bridge is a beast!
It looks terrific. 
