DETROIT – Urban Science, a $125 million automotive retail consulting firm based in Detroit, announced its move to a larger and completely renovated 100,000-square-foot space at 400 Renaissance Center to accommodate its growing business and work force.
Previously located in Tower 200, Urban Science is now occupying floors 29, 30, 31 and 32 in Tower 400 with the option to add another floor next year. The move accommodates a 69 percent increase in staff over the last five years, bringing the Detroit office work force to more than 300. The company has more than 750 employees worldwide.
“We took this opportunity to completely revamp our work environment and create a high-energy creative, collaborative space that encourages interaction not only among our softwaredevelopers here in Detroit, but all over the world,” said Jim Anderson, founder and CEO of Urban Science. “We’re a scientifically driven company and it is important for our office space to reflect a high-tech, innovative culture.”
The modern office design includes vibrant colors, wide-spanning views of the river, cutting edge furniture from Steelcase and completely updated computers and office equipment. Lobbies and common areas are bright, open and reflective of a forward-thinking business.
One structural highlight of the new space is interior stairwells that connect each floor, an unusual layout that solves one of the collaboration challenges for offices in the Renaissance Center.
Other elements of the $10 million renovation include:
- Conference room technology including digital Room Wizard scheduling screens, dual flat screen monitors that encourage collaborative meetings, and live-streaming video conference capabilities to help connect 18 offices around the world
- Modern, highly designed office equipment, including movable stations, computers on swinging, adjustable arms, and walls with whiteboard paint — all to encourage teamwork and the sharing of ideas
- Open kitchen and cafeteria lounge that opens to a large training room, allowing a gathering place for employees
“We’re growing all over the world, with a disproportionate share of the increase here at our global headquarters in Detroit,” added Anderson. “We’ve been in the city for 34 years and we’re excited about continuing to play a role in the growth and revitalization of the downtown community.”
About Urban Science:
Founded in 1977, Urban Science is a global retail consulting firm that takes a scientific approach to help companies identify where theyshould allocate resources in order to increase their market share and profitability in the most effective and efficient manner. With headquarters in Detroit, Urban Science serves its global clientele from offices in the United States, Spain, UK, Germany, Italy, France, Australia, China, Mexico and Japan. For more information on Urban Science, visit www.urbanscience.com.
