The new design is expected to revitalize the facility for the NAIAS and other upcoming events. The upgrades at the Cobo Center celebrate Detroit’s history and future.
The centre features a new atrium which is abundant with natural light and offers views of the Detroit River and Canada. The new riverfront atrium has added 30,000 square feet of new circulation space, currently used by the auto show for presentations and exhibits.
The new design has retained elements of the existing building. Previously existing arena seating has been removed and new floor plates have been created for meeting, banquet and exhibition spaces. More show space, including an additional 25,000 square feet has been added to Oakland Hall.
The adjacent ballroom is still under construction, which is an example of an adaptive re-use of the Cobo arena space. The 40,000 square feet ballroom will feature exterior food court, administrative offices and meeting rooms, and will be available for galas in late May 2013.
tvsdesign has also improved the functionality and marketability of the Cobo Center by upgrading spaces and incorporating state-of-the-art technology, including an expansive video wall which welcomes visitors at the main entrance. A new 4000 square feet in-house production studio has been added to accommodate cars and other elements on the studio floor.
The entire renovation project is estimated at $299 million and will be completed by 2014. Post completion, the Cobo Center will offer a total of 723,000 square feet of exhibition space, a 40,000 square foot dividable ballroom, 100 meeting/breakout rooms, 2,200 parking spaces, and 31 loading docks.
