Tag Archives: Renaissance Center

Detroit Artist Spotlight: Suzann Braun

“Taking an image, freezing a moment, reveals how rich reality truly is.” – Anonymous

 

Detroit fan and photographer Suzann Braun strives to capture the balance between beautiful skyscraper views and the nitty-gritty underbelly of Detroit in her work. The GMRENCEN regularly features Braun’s work on social media, and she recently was one of ten winners in the GMRENCEN’s Your Photo Here Contest, so we decided to get to know her, and her craft, a bit better.

 

Her Start

 

 

Braun began taking photos on fun outings with family and friends, and that theme still guides her passion today.

 

“Growing up I was always the family photographer, the one with a camera,” Braun said. “Now I love to explore different cities through the lens of my camera, or even different neighborhoods of Detroit.”

 

She loves capturing photos outdoors, where a city meets natural outdoor elements. The balance and connection between urban life and Mother Nature can be seen throughout her photos. Michigan’s colorful changing seasons always provoke Braun to grab her camera and head outside.

 

“Before and After” Photos

 

 

The Detroit artist especially loves taking “before and after” photos of Detroit. A moment that stands out in her memory is photographing the Detroit Riverfront in the early 2010s, which at the time was cluttered with industrial plants and warehouses – nothing like the urban greenspace glittering with walkways and parks today.

 

“I love going through photos from years ago and being able to recreate them in today’s landscape. It’s amazing to have a photo from a certain moment in time, and then seeing the city’s progress now,” Braun said.

 

Detroit

 

 

Braun works downtown, so she often spends her lunch break roaming the streets and Riverfront for anything that excites her. Detroit especially inspires her because of Detroit’s grit and artsy-aesthetic.

 

“Detroit is naturally beautiful, yet complex. It’s a photographer’s dream,” she said.

 

Suzann Braun lives in Warren. Follow her on Instagram or visit her online SmugMug gallery for more photos of Detroit and her travels.

Migrating Birds Seek Safe Passage Through Metro Detroit Area

By: Detroit Audubon, fostering the appreciation and conservation of birds and the environment we share since 1939.

 

When you think of robins returning for spring it probably doesn’t cross your mind to cut unnecessary outdoor lighting and dim or redirect essential lighting, does it?

 

While many songbirds only stop briefly in Michigan on their journey from South America to the boreal forests of Canada, the stop can be a fatal one. In fact, bird-window collisions kill up to 4 billion birds annually in the continental U.S. To help our feather friends, Detroit Audubon and Washtenaw Safe Passage have partnered with other groups in Southeast Michigan to make our corner of the planet safer for birds. It’s easier than you think, and even one building can make a big impact.

 

What is Safe Passage?

 

Safe Passage is a collective approach to minimizing human risks to birds. While most programs focus on window collisions, the Safe Passage philosophy includes a little bit of everything:

  • Lights Out programs: this dark sky policy for commercial buildings throughout spring and fall migration can save dozens to hundreds of birds per year, per building!
  • Window collision monitoring and mitigation: this includes screens, decorative window film, window art and other efforts that help prevent birds from hitting glass.
  • Practice safe bird feeding: move feeders as close to windows as possible (three feet or closer), and bleach bird feeders once a month.
  • Green gardening: try owl boxes instead of rodenticide, bluebird and wren boxes instead of insecticide, and using native plants instead of ornamentals.

 

If onewindow at an average single-family residence has been hit by a bird, and that window is subsequently screened, marked with ABC Bird Tape, Acopian Bird Savers, CollidEscape, or Feather Friendly dots, 80 birds can be saved in the span of a decade!

 

Safe Passage Saves

 

 

One high-rise building in Washington D.C. turned off its lights between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. during the months of March, April and May and saved 27 percent on its electric bill, as well as saving hundreds of birds. Doing the same for August, September, October and November will save even more as the population will be boosted by all of the newly-fledged birds from the summer starting their first migration.

 

You can find out more ways to help by visiting DetroitAudubon.org and encouraging your neighbors and local businesses to do the same. There’s even an Honor Roll to recognize the steps taken by local businesses towards being mindful of our feathered friends during their journeys.

 

Follow us on Facebook for more information: Detroit Audubon, Washtenaw Safe Passage, Just Save Birds, Bird Center of Washtenaw County.

 

Editor’s Note: The GMRENCEN promotes Safe Passage principles to all tenants and those working in the building.

The Detroit River – Flowing through Michigan History since the 1700’s

As one of the busiest waterways in the world, the Detroit River serves as a symbol for positive international relations and hope to Detroit. Beyond its historical impact between the United States and Canada, the resurgence of this historic river is timed perfectly with the city’s comeback. The integration of the riverfront’s revival with residents and visitors of Detroit embodies the new spirit of Detroit – and we love it!

 

Detroit River History

 

The river was monumental to Detroit’s automotive success, for business traveling through the strait between lakes. In addition to its transportation impact, the river was used for communication across Michigan – especially during this booming era of industrial expansion.

 

Today, the river serves as a beautiful natural waterway for the city. The riverfront has transformed into an iconic element of Detroit, and the revival of its shores and maintenance of refuge for local wildlife is far from finished.

 

Whether you’re heading on a walk through the Riverfront Gardens, or enjoying the GM Plaza, the river offers activities for everyone!

 

Fun Facts

 

 

  • The river stretches from Lake St. Clair to Lake Erie and operates as a strait in the Great Lakes system.

 

  • The river is only about 0.5 to 2.5 miles wide, making the division between Michigan and Canada very narrow.

 

  • Belle Isle lies in the northern section of the Detroit River, and remains a popular destination for residents and visitors of the city. Belle Isle is a Michigan State Park and is open to the public for all kinds of activities like kayaking, swimming and fishing.

 

  • The Detroit River was once used by the Iroquois who traveled these waters to trade fur with Dutch colonists.

 

  • In 1908, the Detroit News declared the Detroit River the “Greatest Commercial Artery on Earth.”

 

  • In 1997, the Detroit River was named as one of 14 American Heritage Rivers by President Bill Clinton due to the local community of Detroit that utilized the river to revitalize the economy, preserve the history and restore the environment.

 

  • The river is the only international wildlife refuge in North America. From having some of the best walleye fishing in the world, to housing an abundance of bald eagles, this river is full of wildlife!

 

  • The word “Detroit” is French for “strait” and the French invented this name for the river to describe the “Strait of Lake Erie” or “le détroit du Lac Érié.” This has been a major shipping channel since the 1700’s with traders navigating the waters for trade.

 

  • There are 28 islands located within the Detroit River. One of the islands is Belle Isle, which exists as the largest urban island park in the United States. The entire island is listed as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places, and the also encompasses the oldest rowing club in North America.

 

The Emergence of West Riverfront Park

As the City of Detroit enters an era of thriving economic developments, booming real estate and a determination to create a future of success – a new project has emerged.

 

Changing Landscapes

 

 

In April 2018, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy announced, at a press conference in the GM Wintergarden, a new plan to transform West Riverfront Park into an energetic and iconic gathering place for all Detroiters – reshaping this 22-acre region of prime riverfront property.

 

With an amazing riverfront what could we possibly be missing? Turns out the DRFC found a new way to provide just about everything on the riverfront – and this time they’re providing one of the only places, besides Belle Isle, where visitors have access to the water.

 

Besides this addition of a dramatic inlet called “The Cove,” the DRFC explains that their team has many plans to reshape the park – including the addition of an island of the shore, basketball courts, waterslides and even concert areas.

 

The park’s estimated cost is $50 million, and will be run by DRFC’s West Riverfront Park Community Advisory Team. This group of 21 Detroit residents come from various cultures, careers and neighborhoods – to fully ensure that the project will adhere to the all types of interests in Detroit. This board was asked to judge a design competition to find the best team of consultants, architects and engineers for this monumental transformation of the riverfront.

 

The DRFC initially faced the fear of failing to blend the passionate insight of Detroit residents with the professional expertise of top designers – and made sure to take their time assembling the perfect team to ensure the West Riverfront was elevated to its full potential. In February 2018, the advisory team selected major designer Michael Van Valkenburgh and his team, alongside architect David Adjaye.

 

How can we ensure this will work for the city? Besides the fact that Detroit’s riverfront is quickly becoming a favorite attraction within the city, these designers have a reputation for success.

 

Valkenburgh is one of America’s most well-known landscape architects who has been recognized on major design projects including the Brooklyn Bridge Park in New York City. Adjaye has also been acknowledged for his designs, including his work on the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C.

 

When will we finally be able to visit the park? The DRFC says the project will be complete within the next four to five years – but don’t get sad just yet, summer on the riverfront is just getting started on GM Plaza!

 

The Evolution of the Riverfront

 

 

The Detroit Riverfront extends 5.5 miles extending from the Ambassador Bridge, all the way to Belle Isle in the east. Among the many shops, marinas, restaurants and parks lies the GMRENCEN – right in the heart of the riverfront action.

 

How has the GMRENCEN impacted this future development on the riverfront?

 

For starters, General Motors’ renovation of the Renaissance Center to become their global headquarters in 2004 led to major projects such as the GM Plaza – an addition to the riverfront that quickly become a spectacular space for city gatherings and events.

 

General Motors also donated the first half-mile of the riverfront to the Conservancy, and continues to draw residents and visitors to the river through concert series, shopping and a beautiful view of the Detroit River.

 

What’s next?

 

 

As the city prepares for the launch of the West Riverfront Park, it’s time to soak up the sun and enjoy this transforming part of Detroit’s beautiful city and head to the riverfront!

 

Maybe you’ll head to GM Plaza for On the Plaza concerts, Chevrolet Rockin’ on the Riverfront Concert Series or the Eastern Market farm stand – or perhaps you’ll make your way to Belle Isle to enjoy the beach and rent a kayak on the beautiful island. Either way – there’s something for everyone on the riverfront, and we can’t wait to see what comes next.

 

Want more information? Head down to the GMRENCEN to check out the West Riverfront Park display!

The Ambassador Bridge: An Iconic Symbol of Unity in Detroit

With all the amazing developments beginning in Detroit today, we often forget the iconic projects that once defined the Motor City.

 

From the booming automobile industry, to the reputable and unique music of Motown, Detroit has always been a front runner for innovation and excitement in our changing world. As we continue down the path of success for our beloved city, we can also look to the horizon at an iconic landmark that’s been consistent over time: The Ambassador Bridge.

 

 

The bridge was the longest suspended central span in the world upon completion in 1929. The Ambassador Bridge also stood as a symbol of unity – serving as a vital link between the United States and Canada for global visitors and commerce.

 

Prior to the construction of the Ambassador Bridge, Detroit experienced an exciting period architecturally. Major projects constructed during this era include the General Motors Building, Fisher Building, Masonic Auditorium and Penobscot Building. The only feasible next step for this amazing city: a bridge connecting two countries.

 

A Sparkling Detroit

 

Photo Credit: James Gates

 

The bridge is owned by the Detroit International Bridge Company, and in the year 1981 – the bridge became even more prominent to Detroit’s skyline with a permanent installation of lights. This project escalated quickly, as the city hoped it would be complete just in time for Detroit to welcome fans from across the globe to Super Bowl XVI in January of 1982 at the Pontiac Silverdome.

 

With a crunch for time, Detroit Mayor Coleman Young created a task force to, once again, unite a city through embracing the beauty and future of Detroit – one project at a time.

 

The lights were purchased from fundraising calls that created a wave of excitement across the city. Major businesses began donating to the project, and in November 1981, those involved in the project met at the bridge as a helicopter set up the breathtaking lights. This international team ignited a positive and enthusiastic public, who saw the sparkling necklace of lights as a symbol for unity on the world’s friendliest border.

 

Today you can see the beautiful bridge and its lights that illuminate the sky from the Riverwalk of the Detroit River on the GM Plaza of the GMRENCEN. The lights can also be seen from live video channels each day.

 

What’s happening today?

 

Photo Credit: Dane Van

 

The Ambassador bridge may be a symbol of pride and unity for Detroit, but its presence on the Detroit River also serves as a catalyst for positive international relations – and a booming economy.

 

The Ambassador bridge is the largest international crossing in North America for trade volume, as 150,000 jobs depend on the Detroit-Windsor border crossing. This international border is also responsible for more than $13 billion in the United States’ annual productivity.

 

The bridge is responsible for more than 25 percent of all merchandise trade between the United States and Canada, and has adapted over time – just as Detroit has. Although parts have been replaced over the years, segments of the original roadbed from the bridge have been used in Windsor’s bike trails and parks.

 

The bridge remains a symbol for positive international relations, and pride for the city of Detroit. As city visitors and residents admire its beauty in the Detroit skyline, we remember the determination and creativity that was required to build a world-altering landmark.

 

Want to learn more? Check out the Ambassador Bridge display between towers 200 and 300 on Level 1 of the GMRENCEN!

How Leather “Scrap” from Detroit’s Auto Industry is Powering the First Sneakers Manufactured in the Motor City

By: Jarret Schlaff, CEO of Pingree Detroit

I could not have imagined that showing up to a meeting in the GMRENCEN three years ago carrying Pingree Detroit’s newest urban utility boot prototype, and a vision for creating skilled trades jobs for veterans, would provide my team access to the materials we needed to launch our company.

 

It was 2015 and a team of veterans and I were in our first year of bootstrapping this sustainable leather goods manufacturing start-up in every way you can imagine. We had passion and designs for days but were lacking the necessary capital, key expertise, nearly all the equipment we needed to get started, and the cost of materials and skilled labor were barriers we hadn’t figured out how to overcome yet.

 

 

Then came an email from John Bradburn, a mentor of mine and the sustainability visionary behind the Michigan By-product Synergy Initiative and some of GM’s most profound waste repurposing initiatives. He invited me to come to the third quarter Suppliers Partnership for the Environment meeting at the GMRENCEN where hundreds of engineers and auto industry leaders from across North America would be coming together. I welcomed the chance to share our story with as many people as possible (and to ride the People Mover) and had the goal of leaving the meeting with a contact of someone at a company who wanted to explore turning their waste streams into an input for us to create the first sneakers ever manufactured in Detroit.

 

This evolved into an actual possibility after meeting Doug Andrews with Lear Corporation on one of the coffee breaks. He loved our commitment to serving those who have served and bringing shoe manufacturing back to Detroit. After a follow-up meeting he introduced me to his colleagues the following week and we began the process of exploring the possibility of Pingree Detroit solving part of their leather “scrap” problem.

 

We learned that every day, tons of leather intended for new cars goes unused and is considered “waste” or part of the cost of doing business. It’s not easy to create a closed loop manufacturing process but it is possible. Any waste stream has an opportunity for innovation in design and instead of this unused leather being shipped overseas or landfilled we made the case that it could directly support Detroit veterans, create jobs in Detroit and also keep this gorgeous leather in the Motor City. Lear agreed and we have been collaborating ever since.

 

 

With our relationship with Lear established, and some generous equipment donations including some by Lear, our U.S. veterans and other makers now had access to put these materials and equipment to use for training, prototyping and handcrafting the best of it into high quality leather products that are sustainable and handmade to last. Each piece has character and purpose. Just like the people who make it. Right here in Detroit.

 

Those who want to be part of our story and support our efforts can explore our offerings. Our signature tote bags, belts, drawstring backpacks and wallets are designed and handmade in Detroit in small batches by veterans and community makers using this reclaimed luxury automotive grade leather.

 

 

Our leather sneakers become available for purchase in Q4 2018. Folks can sign up for footwear updates here. 

 

You can visit Pingree Detroit at the pop-up store at 1441 Woodward Ave in downtown Detroit now through August 31 or visit our online store at www.PingreeDetroit.com. Use code RENCEN for 10% off any of our products.

Your Photo Here Contest: Meet the Photographers

Within the city of Detroit lives another city, the GMRENCEN; filled with shops, restaurants, a hotel and more. The building has defined the Detroit skyline since 1977 with its international, city and riverfront views. As one of the most photographed buildings in Detroit, we launched the Your Photo Here Contest to display the astonishing architecture of the GMRENCEN and its impact on the city surrounding it.

 

It is said that a photo is worth a thousand words, and these ten winning photographs, now on display inside the GMRENCEN, tells its own story from the perspective of a Detroit photographer. We would like to introduce you to the people behind the photos.

 

Meet Rick Lipski

 

 

A Detroit native, Rick Lipski had his first camera by the sixth grade and by the time he graduated from high school, his interest in photography was secured. Whether it’s looking at something close up and in detail or an unusual angle, his goal behind the lens is to try and look at things a little differently – to capture something that many may often “notice,” but don’t “see.” To discover something new is always exciting, but to rediscover something new in what has always been in front of us is truly beautiful and magical, and that is how he looks at Detroit.

 

Meet David Marcoux

 

 

David Marcoux got into photography about 30 years ago when he was a teenager. He never thought of photography as a hobby but as a tool to capture the hobbies he loves, like auto racing, astronomy, airshows, old architecture and sports. If he was going to travel to see an airshow or spend hours out in the cold taking photos of the city at night or an astronomical event like the eclipse, or a comet – he wants it to be worth it. So, he learned how to shoot pictures in all types of conditions.

 

Meet Maria Popi

 

 

Maria Popi’s passion for photography and architecture has let her explore Detroit, learn about its history, tour the city’s historical places and museums while giving her the opportunity to adopt the city as a new home. She loves capturing sunsets and sunrises along Detroit’s skyline.

 

Meet Christopher Hollis

 

 

Christopher Hollis was born and raised on the west side of Detroit and has lived here for most of his life. According to Hollis, “There’s no other place like it. The people, the cars, the city just feels alive. I’m proud to call myself a Detroiter.”  The GMRENCEN has always been one of his favorite main subjects because it’s so unique and has a certain allure. He says, “All roads seem to lead here.”

 

Meet Gary Washington

 

 

Detroit is where Gary Washington started his journey as a photographer. This is where he learned to adapt to different environments no matter what the circumstances. Washington says, “Detroit has weathered many storms over the years, but nothing keeps this city down. I am always amazed at the perseverance and resilience that drives Detroiters, it’s the same spirit that keeps my fire burning to the very end.”

 

Meet Suzann Braun

 

 

Suzann Braun was born and raised in Detroit. She has worked downtown for over 20 years and enjoys exploring and photographing the city. Suzann has a photo gallery of her work on Instagram under the account name “suzannisuzanni.”

 

Meet Lou Peeples

 

 

Lou Peeples grew up in the Detroit area, raised his family here and has seen it during the good times and bad. Over the years, he’s used his photography to capture the beauty of Detroit’s landscapes. Most of his photos are captured before sunrise, because things are quiet, giving him a more personal connection with the city. As old buildings are brought back to life and new buildings change the city’s skyline, he looks forward to capturing the city in a positive way and showing them on his website, Pointephotography.net.

 

Meet Mark McClelland

 

 

Mark McClelland has lived in the Detroit area since 2008. He believes that Detroit is a unique place that stands at a unique point in history and thinks it’s important to have a record of this era in the city’s history. McClelland strives to document the city in a way that acknowledges all those who call Detroit home and all aspects of the city, while realizing that no record of such a varied and vibrant place will ever be fully complete. This photo is placed here in memory of Philip McClelland.

 

Meet Donald Anson

 

 

Donald Anson is from Redford Township and has been taking photos for the last twenty years. He enjoys taking shots of cityscapes, landscapes and everything in between. This image was shot on a beautiful day in Detroit from a sailboat going down the Detroit River. The image was converted to black and white to give it a futuristic look of the Renaissance Center and the Detroit skyline.

 

Meet Evans Tasiopoulos

 

 

Evans Tasiopoulos was born in raised in Detroit. His creative vision is to document the growing city and show that Detroit is more than just a city of abandoned buildings and decay. Tasiopoulos says, “It is truly a city of life and grandeur.” Through his lens, he conveys his endearment for his community and the wonders that he encounters along the way. His philosophy is that a photograph is more than just a picture, but is a moment caught in time; that the image itself is a living breathing entity.

 

Make sure to visit the GMRENCEN to see the photographs and read the full biographies in person. The winning photographs from the Your Photo Here Contest are on display in Tower 200 and 400 on Level 1 of the GMRENCEN. Which is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

The Best Places to Have a Meeting Outside the Office in the GMRENCEN

Whether you need to stretch, grab a snack or are in need of a change in scenery for some inspiration, the GMRENCEN has you covered if you’re looking to host a meeting outside the office. Take your meeting on the go to any of these great meeting places inside the building.

 

Starbucks

 

 

Starbucks is the perfect place for a meeting and lucky for you, the GMRENCEN has two locations for you to choose from. Equipped with soft music and your favorite beverage, you’ll be just as productive as you would be in a conference room. Be sure to try their Nitro Cold Brew at either location while you’re there!

 

GM Wintergarden

 

 

One word: Wi-Fi. Stay connected while taking in all of the beauty of the outside, inside the GM Wintergarden. Pop inside Panera or Presto Gourmet Deli for snacks or a quick sandwich to make it a lunch meeting.

 

GM World

 

 

Not only is GM World equipped with chairs and tables, it also has nearby outlets to make sure you and your technology stay charged.

 

The Pods

 

 

Grab a pod on Level 1 for a cozy meeting! Pods seat between four and eight people, overlook the gorgeous new showroom and don’t need to be reserved. Have a meeting here and be inspired by GM World’s futuristic and innovative new space.

 

GM Plaza

 

 

When temperatures rise you can move your meeting outdoors to the RiverWalk. Grab a table and chair to enjoy the water, skyline and sunshine.

 

CAFE

 

 

There’s something for everyone here! Salsarita’s for co-workers craving a quesadilla, Beyond Juice for people looking for healthier options and Zoup! for those wanting soup on a chilly day. Fill up a plate, and meet at a table to get back to business.

 

Coffee Beanery High Tops

 

 

Grab your favorite cup of coffee from Coffee Beanery and sit down with your coworkers at their closely located high top tables. Perch here for a quick meeting or for a couple hours!

 

Potbelly Sandwich Works

Potbelly Sandwich Works is located in the corner of Tower 300 and pairs your work ethic with a custom sandwich. Enjoy a toasty sandwich and shake while looking out on the Detroit River the next time you have a lunch meeting scheduled.

 

Bonus Meeting Spots

Andiamo Detroit Riverfront offers private dining making it perfect for business lunches or dinners.

Have your meeting by the water’s edge with fresh seafood and award winning service at Joe Muer Seafood.

 

Where are some of your favorite places to have a meeting outside of the office? Let us know in the comments!

In Memoriam: John C. Portman

Architect of the Renaissance Center, John C. Portman passed away at the age of 93 on December 29, 2017. Portman was known for his futuristic concepts and modern designs as he elevated skylines into the 21st century.

 

Portman was born December 4, 1924 in South Carolina and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. During World War II Portman served in the US Navy and later received a degree in Architecture from Georgia Institute of Technology. By 1953, he started his own company, known today as John Portman and Associates. Choosing the untraditional route, Portman often acted as both developer and architect, allowing him more creative freedom with his work.

 

Building the GMRENCEN

 

 

The Renaissance Center was designed to help modernize downtown Detroit. Portman designed the building to link commercial, retail, residential and cultural components via a riverwalk. This includes pedestrian bridges to connect the activity of Renaissance Center with the activity of the rest of the city.

 

 

 

The installation of the Renaissance Center reignited Detroit’s economy, acted as a tourist attraction, and contributed to the skyline.

 

The Renaissance Center opened in 1977 and was the tallest hotel building in the world, at the time. The GMRENCEN remains the tallest building in the state of Michigan. It wasn’t until 1996 that the Renaissance Center was purchased by General Motors becoming its world headquarters.

 

Today the Renaissance Center is home to more than 30 retailers and dozens of restaurants. Between tenants and visitors, more than 14,000 people visit the building each day.

 

No stranger to pop culture, the GMRENCEN has appeared in several Hollywood films including “Action Jackson” (1988), “Collision Course” starring Jay Leno and Pat Morita (1989), Mickey Rourke’s 2008 crime thriller “Killshot.” The opening scene of “Renaissance Man” shows Danny DeVito driving down Jefferson Avenue for a meeting inside the GMRENCEN, and “Bird on a Wire”, starring Mel Gibson and Goldie Hawn, shot a chase scene inside the building.

 

Futuristic Design

 

 

Known for their clean lines and neo-futuristic forms, Portman’s skyscrapers in Atlanta are Hollywood’s “go-to” dystopian film sites. “Insurgent” the second film in the “Divergent” series features sky bridges and rooftops from Portman’s Atlanta Peachtree Center. “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay” highlights the wild atrium of Portman’s Atlanta Marriott Marquis to depict the capital city of dystopian country Panem. The downtown Atlanta skyline is recognizable in the opening credits of apocalyptic “The Walking Dead.”

 

During Portman’s life he changed skylines, rejuvenated cities, and gave new meaning to the words innovative design. His work is an inspiration and home to many in Detroit. The Renaissance Center is a longstanding symbol of Detroit’s past, present and future and we have John Portman to thank each time we see it grace the Detroit skyline.

 

What is your favorite feature of the GMRENCEN? Let us know in the comments.

Celebrity Chef Shawn McClain to Reinvent Iconic GMRENCEN Dining Space

Welcome to Detroit

 

Detroit-based James Beard Award-winning Chef, Shawn McClain will soon occupy the top of the GMRENCEN as the location for his first Detroit restaurant.

 

Shawn is a celebrity chef with three operations in MGM-owned Las Vegas casinos. As an Iron Chef victor, Shawn has attracted his own cult following, but more importantly, he is based out of Metro Detroit. As Detroit builds its reputation as an exciting tourist and culinary destination, Shawn decided to join the cultural renaissance with the addition his 20,000 square-foot GMRENCEN restaurant.

 

Shawn’s dynamic vision that features multiple concepts is in line with the GMRENCEN’s goal of establishing the space as Detroit’s culinary crown jewel. His acumen for redefining established genres to win both critical acclaim and establish, smart, sustainable businesses is the hallmark of his career.

 

Holly McClain, Shawn’s wife and a native Michigander, brings extensive front-of-house service and training experience that will be instrumental in developing the hospitality DNA of the space. When the incredible opportunity to take over the 71st and 72nd floors of the landmark GMRENCEN presented itself, the McClains felt this was the right entry into the city’s dynamic culinary scene.

 

The McClains are also drawing on the experience of culinary and operations lead Richard Camarota, and brand experience lead Sarah Camarota, to headline this project.

 

 

 

Q & A with Shawn

We recently sat down with Shawn to discuss his career and soon-to-be restaurant.

 

Q: What’s the most exciting part of opening a new restaurant in Detroit?

 

A: The most exciting part of opening a new restaurant in Detroit is really twofold. First, Detroit is home for my family so I have been looking for the right opportunity and something special to call home. Secondly, I am finally able to be a part of the incredible culinary scene that is unfolding before my eyes!

 

Q: What are you most looking forward to in the new restaurant?

 

A: My vision is to create a paradigm shift in the traditional top of the tower experience. We are basically turning the whole idea of “it’s all about the view” inside out. Our goal is to create a multi-faceted experience that is about ALL occasions and not just special occasions.

 

Q: What are you most proud of in your career, before deciding to open a restaurant at the top of the GMRENCEN?

 

A: There are so many proud moments that my career has brought to me, but if I had to pick just one, I would say it was when I was recognized by the James Beard Foundation as Best Chef Midwest for my work in Chicago-it was the equivalent to winning an Oscar in our profession.

 

Q: Where does your passion for cooking and creating dynamic meals come from?

 

A: I love the creative process.  Not only in creating food and menus, but also how that experience is shaped from start to finish.  From the overall design of the space to the programming of menus and uniforms all the way to plateware and finally how the food comes to life.

 

Tell us what you’re most looking forward to with this new restaurant experience in the comments below!