Redefining Event Experiences in Downtown Detroit

Detroit’s event landscape is poised for a significant upgrade with the introduction of “The Department at Hudson’s,” a collection of state-of-the-art event spaces nestled within the highly anticipated Hudson’s Detroit Tower,situated at 1240 Woodward Avenue,the historic site of the original Hudson’s department store. Bedrock Detroit envisions these spaces as a premier destination for a wide array of gatherings, from corporate conferences to elegant celebrations.

Designed for versatility and Innovation

Crafted by the renowned SHoP Architects, “The Department at Hudson’s” boasts over 15 distinct and adaptable meeting and event areas. These spaces are meticulously designed to cater to diverse event requirements, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for organizers and attendees alike. The layout spans three floors, providing options for both seated banquets and dynamic strolling receptions.

Key Features Elevating the Event Experience

• Panoramic Terraces: Wrap-around terraces featuring heated flooring, offering breathtaking views of the Detroit skyline.
• Acoustic Excellence: Advanced soundproofing technology to minimize external noise and ensure optimal audio clarity.
• Integrated AV Solutions: A complete suite of cutting-edge audio and visual equipment to enhance presentations and performances.
• Transformative Seating: A retractable, custom-designed Jezet Seating system that automatically deploys and stores up to 336 leather seats, adapting to various event formats.
• Seamless Logistics: Street-level load-in access to facilitate large-scale deliveries and efficient event setup.
• Culinary Support: Dedicated on-site commercial catering kitchens to support diverse culinary needs.

A Vision for Detroit’s Future

The development of Hudson’s Detroit Tower signifies a major investment in the city’s revitalization. As Detroit solidifies its position as a hub for innovation and culture,”The Department at Hudson’s” aims to provide a world-class venue for events that reflect the city’s dynamism.According to a recent report by the Detroit Metro convention & Visitors Bureau,the city hosted over 1.6 million convention and meeting attendees in 2023, generating an estimated $400 million in economic impact. This new venue is poised to further boost Detroit’s appeal as a premier event destination.

Detroit is known as a top destination for events, conferences and gatherings, and The Department at Hudson’s is the perfect setting to welcome guests from near and far.
Ivy Greaner, Bedrock, Chief Operating Officer

Greaner further emphasizes the strategic importance of this development, stating that “With downtown as its backdrop, Bedrock has created a collection of flexible spaces to experience event excellence.”

More Than Just Event Spaces

The Hudson’s Detroit Tower is set to become a landmark destination, offering a diverse range of amenities beyond event spaces.Upon its opening, the tower will also house downtown Detroit’s first 5-star hotel, The Detroit Edition, featuring over 200 luxurious rooms. This addition will provide unparalleled accommodation options for event attendees and visitors alike. Moreover, The Residences at the Detroit Edition, located on the upper floors, will offer nearly 100 exclusive residential units, adding a vibrant residential component to the development.

A Monumental Development

Rising to a height of 681 feet, the hudson’s Detroit Tower stands as the largest ground-up development in Detroit in the last half-century. While it is indeed second in height to the Renaissance Center (727 feet), its impact on the city’s skyline and economy is undeniable. The project represents a significant milestone in Detroit’s ongoing transformation, injecting new energy and opportunities into the downtown core.

Upon completion, the development will encompass over 1.5 million square feet of new retail, office, dining, hospitality, residential, and event amenities, all within the 1200 Woodward Avenue block.This comprehensive mix of uses will create a vibrant and dynamic surroundings, attracting residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Consider it akin to Rockefeller Center in New York City, a multi-faceted complex that serves as a hub for commerce, entertainment, and culture.

Technological Integration: Enhancing Event Experiences

The integration of advanced technologies is revolutionizing event spaces, offering immersive and interactive experiences. Venues are increasingly incorporating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create engaging environments. For instance, the upcoming Cosm venue in Detroit’s Cadillac Square Development plans to feature a 12K+ LED dome, providing immersive entertainment experiences. ([axios.com](https://www.axios.com/local/detroit/2024/11/01/sphere-like-venue-coming-to-downtown-detroit?utm_source=openai))

Real-Life Example: Cosm’s Immersive Entertainment Venue

Scheduled to be a key attraction in Detroit’s Cadillac Square Development, the Cosm venue will offer a 12K+ LED dome, enhancing the city’s entertainment landscape. ([axios.com](https://www.axios.com/local/detroit/2024/11/01/sphere-like-venue-coming-to-downtown-detroit?utm_source=openai))

Sustainability and Eco-Pleasant Practices: A Green Future

As environmental concerns take center stage globally, the meetings industry is embracing lasting practices and eco-friendly initiatives. Event organizers are prioritizing venues with green certifications, reducing waste through digital registration and interaction tools, and implementing recycling and composting programs. Sustainable catering options, eco-conscious transportation solutions, and carbon offset initiatives are also gaining traction, reflecting a growing commitment to environmental stewardship within the industry. ([destinationmi.com](https://www.destinationmi.com/meetings-industry-trends-2024/?utm_source=openai))

Personalization and Customization: Tailoring Experiences

Attendees now expect personalized experiences that resonate with their interests. Event organizers are leveraging data analytics to deliver tailored content and engagement opportunities. This trend is evident in venues like “The Department at Hudson’s,” which offers adaptable spaces to cater to diverse event requirements, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for organizers and attendees alike. ([bedrockdetroit.com](https://www.bedrockdetroit.com/press-releases/bedrock-unveils-first-look-inside-the-new-development-on-the-site-of-the-former-hudsons-department-store/?utm_source=openai))

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Fostering Inclusive environments

The push for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has gained momentum across industries, including the meetings sector. Organizations are actively promoting diversity in speaker lineups, addressing accessibility barriers, and fostering inclusive environments that welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. DEI-focused workshops, unconscious bias training, and diversity audits are helping to create more equitable and representative events that reflect the richness of human experiences. ([destinationmi.com](https://www.destinationmi.com/meetings-industry-trends-2024/?utm_source=openai))

Hudson’s detroit: A Catalyst for Urban Transformation

The redevelopment of the former J.L.Hudson’s site into a mixed-use development is hailed as a catalyst for the transformation of downtown Detroit’s historic Woodward corridor. This project includes a 126,000 square foot world-class events and meeting venue, filling a niche in the Detroit event venue market and positioning itself as the premier event space on Woodward Avenue close to campus Martius Park. ([costar.com](https://www.costar.com/article/2123467599/hudsons-site-redevelopment-hailed-as-most-notable-detroit-project-in-decades?utm_source=openai))

Did You Know?

The Hudson’s Detroit Tower,standing at 685 feet,is the second tallest building in Michigan,symbolizing the city’s ongoing transformation and growth. ([costar.com](https://www.costar.com/article/2123467599/hudsons-site-redevelopment-hailed-as-most-significant-detroit-project-in-decades?utm_source=openai))

Pro Tip

When planning events in Detroit, consider venues that offer integrated technology and sustainable practices to enhance attendee engagement and align with eco-friendly initiatives. ([destinationmi.com](https://www.destinationmi.com/meetings-industry-trends-2024/?utm_source=openai))

FAQ

What is “The Department at Hudson’s”?

“The Department at Hudson’s” is a collection of state-of-the-art event spaces within the Hudson’s Detroit Tower, designed to host a wide array of gatherings, from corporate conferences to elegant celebrations.([bedrockdetroit.com](https://www.bedrockdetroit.com/press-releases/bedrock-unveils-first-look-inside-the-new-development-on-the-site-of-the-former-hudsons-department-store/?utm_source=openai))

How is technology being integrated into event spaces?

Event spaces are incorporating advanced technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create immersive and interactive experiences for attendees. ([destinationmi.com](https://www.destinationmi.com/meetings-industry-trends-2024/?utm_source=openai))

What sustainable practices are being adopted in event venues?

Event venues are embracing eco-friendly initiatives such as digital registration, recycling programs, sustainable catering options, and carbon offset initiatives to promote environmental stewardship. ([destinationmi.com](https://www.destinationmi.com/meetings-industry-trends-2024/?utm_source=openai))

How is “The Department at Hudson’s” contributing to Detroit’s urban transformation?

The redevelopment of the former J.L. Hudson’s site into “The Department at Hudson’s” is a catalyst for transforming downtown Detroit’s historic Woodward corridor,offering a premier event space and contributing to the city’s revitalization. ([costar.com](https://www.costar.com/article/2123467599/hudsons-site-redevelopment-hailed-as-most-significant-detroit-project-in-decades?utm_source=openai))

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