The historic site of the J.L. Hudson Department Store in downtown Detroit has come alive again with the completion of a 12-story office and retail building at 1240 Woodward Avenue. Designed by SHoP Architects, the development marks a major milestone in the multi-phase Hudson’s Detroit project, aiming to reinvigorate the city’s urban core with mixed-use activity.
Design & Architecture:
The building’s glass-and-terra-cotta façade echoes the craftsmanship of early 20th-century department stores while projecting a modern presence. SHoP Architects carved a 7-story atrium topped by a skylight inspired by the headlight of a 1954 Corvette—a nod to Detroit’s automotive heritage. Filled with natural light and live vegetation, the atrium serves as a central gathering space for the building’s 400,000 square feet of office space.
Public Spaces & Amenities:
The development emphasizes public life and community engagement. A new thoroughfare, Nick Gilbert Way, connects Woodward Avenue to Farmer Street, creating a civic spine lined with retail, shaded gathering areas, and spaces for public art, performances, and seasonal programming. Upper levels host shared lounges, a fitness center, and a multipurpose “Rec Room” with a library, kitchen, and even a practice pickleball court, designed by Pophouse.
Tenants & Future Phases:
The midrise structure houses General Motors’ new headquarters and public showroom (Entrance One) along with tenants including Accenture, ALO Yoga, Tecovas, and the Gilbert Family Foundation. The adjacent 45-story tower, also designed by SHoP and scheduled to open in 2027, will feature The Detroit EDITION hotel, 97 condos, and additional office and retail spaces.
Vision & Impact:
“Ten years in the making, Hudson’s Detroit is elevating downtown and creating space for the community to come together,” said Dan Gilbert, founder and chairman of Bedrock. The project embodies Detroit’s evolving mixed-use urbanism, balancing commerce, culture, and community in one iconic redevelopment.
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