In the heart of Detroit, a once-thriving retail space along Woodward Avenue sat vacant, reflecting a broader need for revitalization. Bedrock sought an innovative solution to transform this empty storefront into an engaging attraction that would draw the community together and contribute to the area’s vibrancy. They turned to Bluewater with a clear challenge: create an interactive experience that would reignite local engagement and encourage foot traffic.
Bluewater envisioned an immersive, interactive experience that would seamlessly blend music, technology, and community engagement. The goal was to design an accessible space where individuals of all ages and backgrounds could explore their creativity through music and light, fostering a sense of unity and discovery
Bluewater brought this vision to life with Remix Detroit, a free, interactive music lab that transformed the vacant space into a dynamic cultural hub. The installation invited visitors to create melodies using illuminated spheres and turntables, producing unique light shows synchronized with their music. Designed for all skill levels, the experience was intuitive and engaging, ensuring that even those without a musical background could participate and enjoy.
Remix Detroit featured state-of-the-art, user-friendly equipment that allowed participants to experiment with different soundscapes. The space incorporated rotating musical themes—including Techno, Motown, Afrobeats, R&B, and a special takeover by the Boys & Girls Club—celebrating Detroit’s rich musical heritage while appealing to a diverse audience. This evolution of themes encouraged repeat visits, sustaining excitement and community involvement over time.
Since its launch, Remix Detroit has significantly influenced both the community and local businesses by increasing foot traffic and drawing visitors to the area. It has become a beacon of creativity and cultural expression, serving not only as an interactive attraction but also as an educational resource, introducing visitors to various musical styles and the fundamentals of music production.
Remix Detroit stands as a testament to the power of experiential design in urban renewal. By merging cutting-edge technology with creative interactive elements, Bluewater helped Bedrock turn an underutilized space into a vibrant, educational, and community-driven hub. This project highlights the potential of innovative technology to transform spaces, foster cultural engagement, and create meaningful experiences that resonate with the heart of a city.
The success of Remix Detroit underscores Bluewater’s expertise in crafting immersive experiences that drive community engagement and urban revitalization. By reimagining how technology and creativity intersect, this project not only met its original challenge but also set a precedent for future interactive community spaces.
To hear more about the impact of Remix Detroit, check out this video where the Bedrock team shares their experience collaborating with Bluewater:
