Detroit's Renaissance Center From the Inside

From late April to mid-June, I had the opportunity to work on a project inside Detroit's Renaissance Center, aka the Ren Cen. This seven-tower complex dominates Detroit's skyline. The 73-story center tower is Detroit's tallest building and is famous for its views of downtown, Canada, and Southeast Michigan.

I had an office with windows in Tower 400, and the view captivated me every day.

This was my view.

Fog blankets the river and the Canadian shore.

A peaceful morning on the Detroit River.

Renovated Fountain Makes a Splash in Detroit

James Scott Memorial Fountain with the Detroit skyline in the background

Detroit's Belle Isle State Park is a beautiful 982-acre park in the middle of the Detroit River. It offers numerous outdoor activities, including athletic fields and a beach, and indoor fun as well, with the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, Bell Isle Aquarium, and Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservancy.

The MacArthur Bridge connecting Belle Isle to mainland Detroit

One of the most beautiful spots on the island is the James Scott Memorial Fountain. Despite the abundance of water in Michigan, this famous Detroit landmark was often dry for the past several years. After significant renovations, it will flow freely every day this summer. The enormous fountain stands near the western end of Belle Isle and offers beautiful views of Downtown Detroit and Canada.

Scott Fountain

The center of the fountain is guarded by majestic lions

Cass Gilbert, who designed the U.S. Supreme Court and the Detroit Public Library Main Branch, designed the fountain, which was completed in 1925. The beautiful marble fountain stretches 510 feet across, and sculpted lions, turtles, dolphins, and human figures serve as its water spouts. In addition to repairing the fountain's plumbing, the recent renovations have included removing many of the stains on the white marble, allowing the fountain to reflect the sun as brightly as it did in 1925.